A new category of Korean skincare, "jelly mists," has begun appearing on U.S. shelves following K-beauty's earlier popularization of snail mucin moisturizers and color-changing collagen masks. The products combine a facial mist's lightweight spray with a gel-like serum texture.
Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, says jelly mists use a micro-gel or hydrogel matrix that helps humectants and skin-conditioning ingredients stick to skin longer than traditional water-based mists, which she says can evaporate quickly. She says the formulas are designed to replenish moisture, support the skin barrier and create the "dewy, glass-skin finish" associated with Korean skincare.