Intensive Repair Cream
Intensive Repair Cream
Product Description
Product overview
A deeply hydrating barrier repair cream formulated with ceramides, copper peptides, and botanical extracts to strengthen compromised skin. Developed by Pyunkang Korean Medicine Hospital, this fragrance-free formula uses cold-press technology to deliver intensive moisture without heaviness.
Barrier Repair Technology
Ceramide NP and copper tripeptide work together to strengthen and restore a compromised skin barrier.
Texture & feel
SENSORYBarrier Repair Technology
Ceramide NP and copper tripeptide work together to strengthen and restore a compromised skin barrier.
Peptide Complex
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) supports collagen synthesis and skin regeneration for firmer, more youthful skin.
Cold-Press Extraction
Botanical extracts are cold-pressed to preserve maximum potency of turmeric, peony, and cornus officinalis.
Triple Moisture System
Combines humectants (glycerin), emollients (shea butter), and occlusives (beeswax) for lasting hydration.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENo retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are EWG green-rated and safe for use during pregnancy and nursing.
Contains fatty acids and oils including macadamia seed oil, shea butter, and beeswax that may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Rated 2/5 on comedogenic scale. The emulsifier system (Montanov 202) is specifically designed to be non-comedogenic and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Zero-irritation certified and dermatologically tested. Fragrance-free formula with all EWG green-rated ingredients minimizes risk of irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSCeramide NPProven
A skin-identical lipid that helps restore and maintain the skin's protective barrier. Ceramides make up about 50% of our skin's lipid matrix and are essential for healthy skin function.
- Function: Reinforces moisture barrier and prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Research: Studies show topically applied ceramides integrate with stratum corneum lipids to repair compromised barriers
- Benefit: Helps skin retain moisture and protects against environmental stressors
Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu)Promising
A naturally occurring peptide complex that combines three amino acids with copper. One of the most studied peptides in dermatology for anti-aging and wound healing benefits.
- Function: Stimulates collagen synthesis, promotes wound healing, and reduces inflammation
- Research: 1998 study showed increased procollagen production in 7/10 participants after one month
- Benefit: May help reduce fine lines, improve skin firmness, and accelerate healing
Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root ExtractProven
A powerful botanical antioxidant derived from turmeric root. Used in traditional medicine for centuries and now validated by modern research for skin benefits.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory, brightening
- Research: Systematic review (Phytotherapy Research 2016) confirms clinical evidence for skin health benefits
- Benefit: Protects against oxidative stress and helps revitalize dull, aging skin
Yeast Beta-Glucan SoothingProven
A polysaccharide derived from yeast that provides soothing and immune-supporting benefits for the skin. Excellent for calming irritated or sensitive skin.
- Function: Immune modulation, wound healing support, hydration
- Benefit: Soothes inflammation and supports skin's natural repair processes
Shea Butter & Macadamia OilClassic
Rich emollients that provide deep nourishment and help seal in moisture. Shea butter is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory and skin-softening properties.
- Shea Butter: Rich in fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and F for intense nourishment
- Macadamia Oil: Contains palmitoleic acid (also found naturally in skin) for enhanced absorption
- Benefit: Creates protective barrier while delivering essential fatty acids
35 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Methylpropanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Glyceryl Stearate, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Phenyl Trimethicone, Cetearyl Glucoside, Beeswax, Sorbitan Stearate, Cellulose Gum, Ceramide NP, Paeonia Lactiflora Bark/Sap Extract, Cornus Officinalis Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Yeast Beta-Glucan, Copper Tripeptide-1, Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Octyldodecanol, Carbomer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Myrtus Communis Extract, Tropaeolum Majus Extract, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the last step of your skincare routine to seal in all previous layers. Use morning and night. Follow with SPF during the day.
How to use
HOW TO USEPrep Your Skin
After cleansing and applying toner/serum, ensure your skin is still slightly damp for optimal absorption.
Dispense Product
Take a pea-sized amount (about 0.5-1g) onto your fingertips. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Apply & Pat
Gently spread the cream evenly across your face and neck following your skin's texture. Pat gently to aid absorption.
Layer if Needed
For extremely dry skin or harsh winter conditions, apply a second thin layer on dry patches or use as a sleeping mask.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dry, dehydrated, or flaky skin
- Your skin barrier is damaged or compromised
- You experience seasonal dryness or tightness
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe options
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to fragrance
- You want anti-aging benefits from peptides
- You're recovering from harsh treatments (retinol, acids)
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very oily skin and prefer gel textures
- You live in hot, humid climates year-round
- You prefer lightweight, water-based moisturizers
- You're looking for a budget option (larger sizes exist elsewhere)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESPerfect match. Rich formula with ceramides, shea butter, and occlusives provides exactly what dry skin craves.
Fragrance-free, EWG green-rated ingredients, and zero-irritation certified. Ideal for reactive skin.
Works well on dry areas. May feel slightly rich for T-zone in summer; use sparingly or as night cream.
May feel too rich for daytime. Consider using only at night or during winter when skin is drier.
Low comedogenic rating (2/5). Good for acne skin that's dry from treatments. Not for fungal acne.
Copper peptides support collagen production. Rich texture addresses age-related dryness beautifully.
Results timeline
8-12 WEEKSInstant Comfort
Skin feels immediately soothed, hydrated, and comfortable. Tightness and dryness are relieved upon first application.
95% noticedImproved Hydration
Skin barrier begins to strengthen. Noticeable reduction in flakiness, redness, and sensitivity. Skin retains moisture better throughout the day.
85% noticedBarrier Restoration
Significant improvement in skin barrier function. Less reactive to environmental stressors. Skin appears plumper and healthier.
75% noticedLong-Term Benefits
Peptide benefits become visible with improved skin firmness and texture. Fine lines may appear softer. Overall skin health improved.
60% noticedRatings by platform
590+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent for severely dry and damaged skin barriers
- Fragrance-free and EWG green-rated safe formula
- Contains proven barrier-repair ingredients (ceramides)
- Copper peptides offer anti-aging benefits
- Developed by Korean medicine hospital specialists
- Rich yet absorbs without feeling greasy
- Safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Soothes irritated, red, and reactive skin
Criticized
- Small jar size (50ml) for the price point
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- May be too rich for oily skin in hot weather
- Jar packaging is less hygienic than pump
- Takes longer to absorb than gel moisturizers
- Some find texture too heavy for daytime use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar ceramide-based barrier repair formula at a much better value (4x the product). Lighter texture, also fragrance-free and safe for sensitive skin. No peptides though.
Drugstore classic with 3 ceramides and MVE technology. Much thicker texture, contains petrolatum. No peptides or botanical extracts. Great value for basic barrier repair.
French pharmacy favorite for barrier repair. Contains panthenol and madecassoside instead of peptides. Thicker, more occlusive texture. Better for spot treatment.
From the same brand, similar ceramide formula with hyaluronic acid. Slightly lighter texture, better value per ml. Good alternative if you want more product.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Use clean hands or spatula to prevent contamination.
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature (15-25°C) is ideal. No refrigeration needed.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. Consider using a small spatula to maintain hygiene and product integrity.
Yes, 50ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact jar fits easily in toiletry bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this cream is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. All ingredients are EWG green-rated (1) and the formula is specifically designed to be gentle. The copper peptide (GHK-Cu) is a naturally occurring compound in the body and is not a concern during pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
No, this cream is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including macadamia seed oil, shea butter, beeswax, and various fatty acid esters. If you have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis), you should avoid this product and look for alternatives specifically formulated to be FA-safe.
Yes! This cream is excellent for use with actives. Its barrier-repair properties make it ideal for soothing skin after using potentially irritating ingredients like retinol or acids. Apply the cream after your actives have absorbed. The ceramides and peptides will help buffer any irritation while supporting skin healing. If using strong actives, you might apply this cream 15-20 minutes after to allow actives to work first.
This cream is best suited for dry, dehydrated, sensitive, and mature skin types. It excels at repairing damaged skin barriers and providing intense moisture. Those with combination skin can use it at night or during winter. Oily skin types may find it too rich for daytime use but could benefit from using it as a night cream or during dry seasons.
Immediate results include instant hydration and comfort. Within 1-2 weeks, you'll notice improved moisture retention and reduced flakiness. Barrier repair benefits become significant at 4-6 weeks. The peptide anti-aging benefits (improved firmness, reduced fine lines) typically take 8-12 weeks of consistent use to become noticeable.
Apply this cream as the last step of your skincare routine (before sunscreen in AM). The typical order is: Cleanser → Toner → Essence → Serum/Ampoule → This Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). As a rich cream, it should go after lighter, water-based products to seal everything in.
The cream has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, which is considered low risk. The emulsifier system (Montanov 202) used is specifically designed to be non-comedogenic. Cetearyl alcohol, the highest-rated comedogenic ingredient, has a rating of 2. Most users with non-fungal acne-prone skin tolerate it well, especially if their acne is linked to dryness or barrier damage.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 50ml jar typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use on face and neck. To extend product life and maintain hygiene, use clean hands or a spatula, keep the lid tightly closed, and store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Verdict: Pyunkang Yul Intensive Repair Cream is a premium K-beauty moisturizer that delivers on its barrier-repair promises. The combination of ceramides and copper peptides sets it apart from basic moisturizers, offering both immediate hydration and long-term anti-aging benefits. While the 50ml size feels small for the price compared to drugstore alternatives, the quality ingredients, fragrance-free formula, and medical-grade development justify the investment for those with dry, sensitive, or damaged skin. Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers, but an excellent choice for anyone seeking serious barrier repair with added peptide benefits.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Methylpropanediol
Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Cetearyl Alcohol
Emulsion Stabilising, Opacifying, Foam Boosting, Viscosity Increasingagent - Aqueous, Viscosity Increasing Agent, Emollient, Emulsifying, Viscosity Controlling
|
|