To understand Sulwhasoo’s formulations, one must first be acquainted with the term “Jaeum” which means supplementing and protecting the Yin energy in skin. At the heart of Sulwhasoo’s complexion-enhancing formulations is Jaeumdan, a unique and original formula that supplements the energy and keeps skin refined and beautiful. Applied in all Sulwhasoo products, it is carefully extracted from five Korean medicinal herbal plants adopting the principle of sang-seng between fresh and treated ingredients to further enhance their efficacies.

The five Jaeumdan ingredients are Peony, Solomon’s Seal, East Indian Lotus, White Lily and Adhesive Rehmannia. Benefits include countering the effects of dryness, fine lines and wrinkles, diminished elasticity and dullness and fostering a nourished and hydrated complexion.

Jaeumdan‘s supplementation of Yin is further enhanced by Jaeumboweedan, a complex made of extracts from seven Korean medicinal herbs. This multi-dimensional formula is completed with the Yin energy of Jaeumdan.

Out of all Sulwhasoo’s skincare lines, their Essential Line is probably their best known because of the First Care Activating Serum (image below). To formulate the Essential Line, the Honey Treatment is used. Jaeumdan‘s Small Solomon’s Seal and White Lily, Jaeumboweedan’s Satsuma Mandarin, Ladybells, Kobon and Adlay Millet are seasoned in honey, placed in earthen jars and carefully baked. This method not only refines the ingredients, the honey that harmonizes the medicinal herbs effectively refines the skin as well.

The First Care Activating Serum 60ml/RM250 is an essential boosting serum for ensuring optimal skin care results, promoting balance and replenishing essential moisture. It’s for all skin types and ages. I’ve been using it (not continuously) whenever I want a lighter serum, this one has a faint ginseng scent that will be loved by anyone who has a penchant for herbal scents.

This serum is one of Sulwhasoo’s flagship products and 9 bottles were sold every minute in 2011. That’s pretty remarkable for a skincare product! It enhances the efficacy and absorption of other skincare products to follow. It’s been accredited as the best product by Korean media and beauty community (again very impressive given the number of Korean skincare available nowadays).