Back in primordial times when we confidently wore peplum tops, existed on the internet with 3G connections, and listened to music on iPod shuffles, we humans participated in a ritual called the 10-step Korean skincare routine. It was arduous of course, and we sometimes pondered halfway if it was worth it but it always worked like a charm provided you used the right products. And we have one incredible woman to thank for inculcating such positive skincare habits into us. Her name is Charlotte Cho.
Now that Then I Met You of which Cho is the founder has landed on our shores at Sephora, it’s time to discover what exactly makes the brand tick so fervently on TikTok. Hint: it’s the Living Cleansing Balm which has over 14 industry awards and can often be spotted sitting on the bathroom counters of your favourite it-girls. Hint 2: it’s a complete set of seven products to take you from day to night, and into rooms where people will compliment how glowy you look. Look at you, lighting up a space!
But in this interview, Cho lists down the it-place to celebrity watch in Seoul, an offbeat activity for much-needed relaxation, and of course, her steps to travel proofing a skincare routine with the best-of from the brand she founded.
1. A skincare product that protects the skin across all cities, climates, and countries.
Then I Met You Bong2 Bounce Cream ($74)! It’s a barrier-protecting, lightweight moisturiser infused with the extracts of the Korean citrus fruit Hallabong, specifically designed for warmer climates like Singapore! It’ll give you that “honey skin,” that Korea is known for.
2. A skincare product that instantly gives the skin a glow.
Then I Met You The Giving Essence ($86) is not your average Korean essence with a base of fermented hydrating ingredients. I formulated this essence with an optimal and powerful 5% concentration of niacinamide, to give that boost of skin-brightening glow.
3. A skincare travel hack for jetlagged skin.
Sheet mask before the flight, and sheet mask after. Your skin is extremely dry in-flight, and likely not getting the TLC you usually give it at home. This helps you replenish the moisture to give your skin that glowing bounce again!
4. The best cafe in Seoul to people watch.
Any cafe in Hannam-dong for a casual celebrity run-in.
5. The best place in Seoul for a glamorous night out.
You can’t go wrong with Apgujeong. Seoul is fast with the trends and constantly evolving, but what was old is new again and this neighbourhood nightlife is back with a vengeance.
6. The must-visit store in Seoul for interesting fashion.
The Ilma is one of my go-to spots for the most fashionable jeans and coats.
7. The most offbeat thing a tourist can do in Seoul.
Doing a temple stay allows you to soak in the quiet moments of Korea. You rise early for a hike, meditate, tend to the garden and eat a diet consisting of fresh vegetables.
8. The skincare tip she wished she had known earlier.
Healthy, glowing skin starts with a double cleanse. It not only keeps your skin clear of breakouts, but it also prevents premature ageing.
9. The podcast that instantly inspires her after listening to it.
Pivot hosted by Scott Galloway and Kara Swisher. It’s all about tech, media and oftentimes about entrepreneurship, and their POV is often marked by brutal honesty, empathy and crass humour.
10. The dream skincare product she’s looking to launch.
A tinted SPF that gives you a skin glowing effect. Everything launched through Then I Met You, is meant to create holy grails in your skincare routine. As a busy mom of two, I need something that provides light coverage and a little bit of glow, with minimal effort!