The Korean skincare routine is famous for its multi-step approach to achieving healthy, radiant skin. While 10 steps may sound overwhelming, each step serves a specific purpose in nourishing and protecting your skin. The best part? You can customize the routine based on your skin’s needs.
Ready to unlock glowing skin? Let’s break it down!
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser – Melt Away Makeup & Impurities
An oil cleanser is the first step in the double cleansing method. It effectively removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping your skin.
How to Use:
Massage a few pumps onto dry skin, then rinse with lukewarm water.
Recommended Ingredients: Jojoba oil, olive oil, or rice bran oil for deep cleansing.
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser – Deep Cleanse Without Over-Drying
After removing oil-based impurities, a water-based cleanser washes away sweat and dirt for a fresh, clean slate.
How to Use:
Apply to damp skin, massage in circular motions, and rinse.
Recommended Ingredients: Green tea, centella asiatica, or hyaluronic acid for hydration.
Step 3: Exfoliation – Buff Away Dead Skin Cells
Exfoliating 2-3 times a week helps unclog pores and improve skin texture. Choose a gentle physical scrub or a chemical exfoliant.
How to Use:
Apply in gentle circular motions or leave on as instructed for chemical exfoliants.
Recommended Ingredients: AHA (glycolic acid) for dry skin, BHA (salicylic acid) for acne-prone skin.
Step 4: Toner – Rebalance & Prep Your Skin
Toners hydrate, restore pH balance, and prep the skin for better absorption of serums and moisturizers.
How to Use:
Gently pat into your skin using your hands or a cotton pad.
Recommended Ingredients: Rose water, tea tree, or snail mucin for extra nourishment.
Step 5: Essence – Boost Hydration & Skin Health
Essences are lightweight yet powerful hydrators that enhance your skin’s natural renewal process.
How to Use:
Pat into your skin using your fingertips.
Recommended Ingredients: Fermented ingredients like galactomyces or yeast extract for brightening.
Step 6: Serum & Treatments – Target Specific Skin Concerns
Serums and ampoules contain concentrated active ingredients to address issues like wrinkles, dark spots, or dehydration.
How to Use:
Apply a few drops to targeted areas and gently press into the skin.
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Step 7: Sheet Mask – Lock in Hydration & Nutrients
A K-beauty favorite! Sheet masks provide intense hydration while delivering key ingredients deep into the skin.
How to Use:
Apply to clean skin, leave on for 15-20 minutes, then pat in the remaining essence.
Recommended Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, or ginseng for rejuvenation.
Step 8: Eye Cream – Brighten & Hydrate the Under-Eye Area
The skin around the eyes is delicate and needs extra care to prevent fine lines and puffiness.
How to Use:
Gently dab a small amount around the eye area using your ring finger.
Recommended Ingredients: Peptides, niacinamide, and caffeine for firming and brightening.
Step 9: Moisturizer – Seal in Hydration & Strengthen Skin Barrier
A good moisturizer locks in hydration, leaving your skin soft and plump.
How to Use:
Apply as the final hydration step to prevent moisture loss.
Recommended Ingredients: Ceramides, squalane, or bakuchiol for better aging benefits.
Step 10: Sunscreen – Protect Your Skin Daily
The most important step! Sunscreen prevents premature aging and protects against sun damage.
How to Use:
Apply generously every morning as the last step of your routine.
Recommended Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or centella asiatica for soothing protection.