The key to the Korean skincare routine is layering, which involves creating layers of hydration on your skin by starting with lighter, fast-absorbing products and ending with thicker, more moisturizing ones to lock in all the nutrients and hydration.
The idea of applying so many layers of product might seem overwhelming, which is why Korean moisturizers and creams have a lightweight texture, quick absorption, and are either fragrance-free or have a very subtle scent, making it easier to complete your routine.
What is a Korean skincare routine?
The Korean skincare routine is a comprehensive approach that emphasizes the importance of using high-quality products to achieve the best results. It generally involves multiple steps, often up to 10, including toners, serums, exfoliants, masks, and moisturizers, all working together to nourish and protect the skin.
So, why is this regimen so crucial? If you follow the Korean skincare routine you can prevent and address various skin issues, such as aging, hyperpigmentation, acne, irritation, and dryness. Therefore, you’ll be providing your skin with the essential nutrients needed to keep it healthy and radiant for much longer.
What are the Korean skincare steps?
The Korean skincare routine includes additional steps compared to more conventional skincare regimens, such as double cleansing with an oil-based cleanser, applying facial masks, using essences, and occasionally using overnight masks.
Let’s delve into the Korean skincare steps, providing you with a guide to integrating these practices into your own regimen. Whether you’re new to the world of Korean beauty or looking to refine your existing routine, this guide will help you to achieve a radiant and healthy skin.
Remove dirt and makeup with an oil-based cleanser
Within the Korean skincare steps, the firThe first Korean skincare step is to remove all the makeup and dirt accumulated throughout the day. In the Korean skincare routine, oil-based cleansers or balms are used for the entire face. These not only effectively break down impurities but also provide additional hydration to your skin.
If you have oily or sensitive skin, you need not worry about this type of cleanser. They are specially formulated for the face and emulsify upon contact with water, allowing you to remove them completely without leaving any residue.
Finish your double cleansing with a foaming cleanser
The second step involves doing a second cleanse. Now, use a light foaming or gel cleanser and gently massage it onto your damp face.
This step ensures that you completely remove any remaining oil or dirt left on your skin after the first cleansing step.
Gently exfoliate your skin
Although this step doesn’t need to be done daily, it’s important to do it 1 or 2 times a week, depending on your skin type. Korean exfoliants come in various forms, such as toners, masks, and peeling gels, and are formulated to address different needs. Find the one that best suits your skin type!
Replenish your skin’s hydration with toner
In the fourth step of the Korean skincare routine, we use a highly favored product: toner.
High-quality Korean toners are free from alcohol and astringents. These toners primarily aim to deliver an initial layer of hydration and restore your skin’s natural balance, which can be disrupted by soaps that have a higher pH than your skin.
Incorporate a Korean essence into your routine
This is one of the most crucial steps in the Korean skincare routine. Essence is a hallmark of Korean cosmetics, featuring a lightweight and watery texture designed to enhance and support the cellular renewal process.
In addition to its lightness and quick absorption, essence is packed with active ingredients that can improve skin elasticity and firmness, as well as provide an extra boost of radiance.
Active ingredients with serums or ampoules
In this sixth step, you’ll use serums or ampoules, which have a thicker consistency due to their high concentration of active ingredients. These products target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation and fine lines, and also contribute to a brighter complexion by promoting cellular renewal.
Masks
Sheet masks are essential in Korean skincare routines, where they are used even daily.
You can try various types, formats, and textures depending on your skin type. Ideally, apply them between the serum and the moisturizer.
Special care for your eye area
In this step, apply eye cream to hydrate and provide active ingredients specifically formulated to enhance the delicate eye area. There are eye creams designed for daytime use that help visibly reduce signs of fatigue and puffiness. Conversely, eye creams with brightening and nourishing properties are more suitable for nighttime application.
Seal in moisture with a hydrating cream
Next, apply a moisturizer to provide all the hydration and moisture your skin needs. Choose one that suits your skin type, whether it’s a Korean emulsion or cream. It will not only deliver hydration to your skin but also create a barrier to prevent water loss.
Finish Your routine with sunscreen
Finally, complete your Korean skincare routine by applying sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun and UV rays. This step is crucial every morning, regardless of whether you plan to go outside. It’s also important to reapply sunscreen regularly, once more if you’re indoors or every two hours if you’re exposed to direct sunlight.
