Women drive nearly 70–80% of the global beauty market, and their expectations have never been higher. Transparency, efficacy, and simplicity are no longer a nice-to-have; they're the standard. This International Women's Day, Kiokii and... sits down with Round Lab, the Korean skincare brand that's leading the charge toward honest, minimalist skincare.
Inside the Brand: An Interview with Round Lab CEO
1. Which product best represents your brand philosophy, and why?
"The product that best represents our brand philosophy is the 1025 Dokdo Toner. It reflects our core belief that skincare should focus on essentials rather than excess. By utilizing mineral-rich deep sea water sourced from Ulleungdo and a minimalist formula, we aimed to create a product that delivers exactly what skin truly needs—gently and consistently. For us, true innovation lies in refining the basics and doing them right."
2. What was the original problem that inspired you to create this brand?
"We noticed that many women felt overwhelmed by overly complicated routines and aggressive formulas. Skincare had become a chore to endure rather than a ritual to enjoy. We wanted to create products that women could trust every single day—solutions that respect the skin's natural balance and fit seamlessly into a modern, busy lifestyle."
3. What does "care" mean to your brand when it comes to formulation and design?
"To us, care means restraint and responsibility. In formulation, it means carefully selecting high-quality ingredients and ensuring they are effectively delivered to the skin. In design, it means creating something intuitive, calming, and honest—without unnecessary decoration. Care is about thinking from the user's perspective at every single step."
4. Is there a detail in your products that people often overlook but you're especially proud of?
"One detail people often overlook is the immense effort that goes into achieving perfect balance. Our products are not designed to show immediate or aggressive results; instead, they are crafted to support the skin steadily over time. That quiet, reliable consistency is something we are incredibly proud of."
5. What message do you hope women take away when they interact with Round Lab?
"We hope women feel reassured and respected. We want them to know that their skin doesn't need to be 'fixed'—it needs to be understood and cared for. Our message is simple: healthy skin is built through trust, patience, and consistency."
Kiokii's Top Picks: Round Lab Essentials for Healthy, Radiant Skin
To celebrate International Women's Day on March 8th, we've curated three best-selling Round Lab products currently trending at kiokii.com. Whether you're building your first Korean skincare routine or refining an existing one, these are the essentials every minimalist skincare lover needs.
1. 1025 Dokdo Toner
A cult favourite in the world of Korean skincare, the 1025 Dokdo Toner has earned its reputation for good reason. Formulated with mineral-rich deep sea water from Ulleungdo and protease enzymes that gently exfoliate dead skin cells, this toner delivers long-lasting hydration without stripping the skin's natural barrier. Think of it as the ultimate daily "reset button" for a smooth, clear, and balanced complexion.
Best for: All skin types seeking hydration and gentle, daily exfoliation.
2. Birch Juice Moisturizing Sunscreen
Consistently one of Round Lab's top-selling products, this lightweight SPF is a two-in-one hero. Formulated with Birch Sap and Hyaluronic Acid, it provides broad-spectrum UV protection while keeping skin deeply moisturized throughout the day. No white cast. No greasy finish. Just effortless, everyday sun protection—exactly what minimalist skincare is about.
Best for: Daily wear, sensitive skin, and those who want hydration and SPF in one step.
3. Birch Juice Moisturizing Cleanser 150ml
A gentle daily cleanser that proves effective skincare starts at the first step. Formulated with Birch Sap as its hero ingredient, this cleanser removes impurities and excess sebum without stripping the skin's natural moisture barrier—leaving skin feeling clean, soft, and balanced after every wash.
Best for: All skin types, especially those with dry or sensitive skin looking for a hydrating, non-stripping cleanse.
Celebrating Women Through Honest Beauty
At Kiokii and..., we believe that the most powerful beauty stories aren't the loudest ones. Brands like Round Lab remind us that real innovation doesn't always come in dramatic packaging or bold claims, it comes from deep respect for the skin and the people who live in it.
This International Women's Day, we invite you to step away from the noise of the beauty industry and return to what truly matters: skincare that is honest, consistent, and made with care.
Ready to explore Round Lab's full collection? [Shop now at kiokii.com →]
Kiokii and... is Canada's premier destination for curated Asian beauty. We bring you the most innovative and trusted brands from across Asia, so your self-care journey is as unique and empowered as you are.