MyGlowySkinJourney

One day I was watching a YouTube video from influencer Jenn Im, and in that video her mum revealed the product she has sworn by since her twenties – Sulwhasoo’s Concentrated Ginseng line.

Now, I know genetics play a big role (especially when we’re talking about radiant Asian skin that tends to age gracefully), but I couldn’t ignore the fact that her mum looked incredible. Naturally, I felt compelled to order the set and see if this so-called “anti-aging secret” would work on me too.

Mind you, the price is incredibly steep – around AU$260 😱 for the set. Definitely not a casual “let’s just try it” purchase. But my curiosity got the better of me. When my parcel finally arrived, I was so excited I literally ran to wash my face just so I could try everything immediately.

What’s Inside the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Set

This set comes with four products, all designed to be layered in a specific order. According to my research (and cross-checking with Sulwhasoo’s official site), here’s the correct routine:

1. First Care Activating Serum VI 15ml– a prepping serum that helps with product absorption.
2. Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Water 150ml + 25ml – a hydrating toner/essence.
3. Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Emulsion 125ml + 25ml – a lightweight moisturiser that nourishes the skin.
4. Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Cream 5ml – the final step, a rich cream that seals everything in.

The set is great as it has miniature versions of the water and essence which is great for travelling or sharing with mum, a sister or bestie. If you’re new to K-beauty, this might sound like a lot of steps, but trust me, it’s pretty straightforward once you get into the habit.

What makes Sulwhasoo unique is its use of traditional Korean herbal medicine (Hanbang). Ginseng has been used for centuries in Asia to boost energy, improve circulation, and promote longevity. Sulwhasoo harnesses this history and applies it to skincare, marketing it as an ingredient that helps restore vitality and resilience to tired, aging skin. That cultural heritage is part of the reason why the brand commands such a premium price tag.

First Impressions: The Scent & Texture

As someone who grew up in an Asian household, I have a bit of PTSD from ginseng lollies – they were bitter, earthy, and not exactly the treat I wanted as a kid. So I was slightly hesitant about smearing ginseng all over my face.

But to my surprise, the scent in this range is subtle, herbal, and actually quite relaxing. It does smell like ginseng, but not in a punch-you-in-the-face way. More of a faint, soothing background note. The textures are luxurious but not heavy – each layer absorbs nicely without feeling sticky.

Compared to other high-end Korean skincare I’ve tried, like Laneige or Hera, Sulwhasoo feels more medicinal and grounding. It’s less about fruity scents or trendy packaging and more about a ritualistic, spa-like experience. That difference really stood out to me during my first week of use.

My Skin After 5 Months of Use

I’ve been using this anti-aging set for about five months now, both morning and night. And honestly? My skin does feel different. It looks smoother, more hydrated, and noticeably dewier. I’ve had friends comment that my face looks “healthier” or “glowier,” and I’ll take that as a win.

A little goes a long way with these products. A splash of the essence and one pump of the serum is enough to cover my entire face. Even though the bottles look small, they’ve lasted surprisingly well given the price tag. I still think $260 is a lot, but if you calculate cost-per-use, it’s not as outrageous as it first seems.

One interesting thing I noticed was that my fine lines around the eyes and mouth appeared softer. I wouldn’t call this a miracle or Botox-in-a-bottle, but the hydration and plumping effect did make my skin look younger. I also didn’t experience breakouts, which is rare for me when trying rich anti-aging creams.

Who I’d Recommend This For

I’d recommend the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng line if you:

• Are starting to notice early signs of aging (fine lines, dullness, lack of bounce).
• Want a skincare routine that feels indulgent and spa-like.
• Don’t mind investing in higher-end K-beauty products.

If you’re just after basic hydration, you can definitely get cheaper options from brands like Laneige or Innisfree. But if you want something that truly feels anti-aging, luxurious, and rooted in traditional herbal skincare, Sulwhasoo delivers.

This set would also make a beautiful gift for a skincare lover. The packaging is elegant, the textures feel premium, and it carries that sense of tradition that makes it special. It’s not just skincare, it’s an experience you can share with someone who values ritual and results.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Luxurious textures that layer beautifully.
• Subtle ginseng scent that’s calming.
• Noticeable improvement in skin glow and smoothness.
• A little goes a long way.

Cons:

• The price. It’s a definite investment.
• Not the best entry-level set if you’re new to skincare.
• If you dislike herbal scents, this may not be for you.

Final Thoughts – Worth It?

After 5 months, I can confidently say I don’t regret buying this set. My skin feels more youthful, plump, and radiant, which is exactly what I hoped for when trying an anti-aging Korean skincare routine.

Would I repurchase? Probably yes – though maybe I’ll wait for a Black Friday sale or Boxing Day sale to soften the blow.

If you’re curious and have the budget, I’d recommend giving the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Set a try. It’s not just skincare; it’s a whole ritual that makes you slow down and enjoy the process of looking after your skin.

Notes: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use and trust 🧡