The 10 Step Korean Skincare Routine
Jump To:
For your skin to glow crystal clear like a Korean beauty, there is a detailed 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine Guide for you to follow.
There are many skincare routines according to different beauty theories. What makes Korean skincare different is its deep understanding of skin structure and functionality. They are usually natural micro-ingredients to nourish the skin. The 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine Guide will help you in bringing the natural magic of your skin back.
The Korean beauty trends have brought a revolutionary change in skincare techniques for decades. Its innovative products are aimed at resolving specific skin issues such as premature skin aging, hyperpigmentation, acne, dryness, or excess oiliness. It does not believe in one fits all concept. Usually, Korean skincare routines avoid the use of glycolic acid, retinol, and benzoyl peroxide like harsh exfoliants. Here are the 10 steps Korean skincare routine.
1. Oil-based cleanser
An oil-based cleanser is the first step toward the Korean-style skincare routine. It removes any makeup and dirt from the face. Along with removing the dirt from the skin, it does not disturb the skin’s natural balance and keeps your skin hydrated. It can remove waterproof sunscreen as well.
Take a small amount of product in your palm and rub it in a circular motion. Cleansing in circular motions also increases blood flow, which is essential for healthy skin and allows the cells to carry out their functions smoothly. Remove it with lukewarm water.
2. Foaming or water-based cleanser
After removing oil-based impurities from the skin, the next step is to use a water-based cleanser. The water-based cleanser removes water-based impurities like dirt and sweat. You can either use cleansing gel, foam or cleansing water.
If you are having dry skin, you can use a cleansing gel as it will not dry your skin as the foaming cleanser will do. The foam-based cleanser is recommended for oily skin types. Cleansing water does not need additional water and can be applied on a cotton pad to wipe away dirt from your face. It is important to use a pH-balancing cleanser to prevent it from eradicating your skin barrier.
3. Exfoliants
This step focuses on removing dead skin cells. Dead skin cells can cause pore blocking and acne. It is important to remove it for flawless skin. It also helps improve your skin’s overall texture and tone. You can use exfoliant 2 to 3 times a week if your skin is less exposed to dirt and pollution.
Despite using harsh exfoliants, Korean skincare suggests gentle exfoliants to exfoliate your skin. You can also use a peeling gel for this step. You can take a small drop of exfoliant and scrub it gently for one minute and then rinse it off with water.
4. Toner
Toner is important in every skincare routine as it tightens your pores and helps maintain your skin’s pH balance. It is important to use a good toner to avoid open pores. While choosing a toner make sure it does not contain alcohol. While hydrating toners are best for dry to normal skin, toners with green tea or tea tree oil work well for oily and combination skins.
Apply the toner from the chin to the forehead and then to the neck. You can focus on the area containing wrinkles and fine lines. Some toners can also moisturize and soothes along with tightening pores.
5. Essences
The special step of Korean skincare is the essence. They are lightweight water-based formulas with active ingredients just like a serum. The main function is to hydrate the skin and to keep it moist by deep penetrating into the skin layer. It soothes your skin while healing it at the same time.
It also prepares the skin for the next step as it lets other products dissolve easily. You just have to take a few drops of essence and pat it lightly on the face.
6. Serum
The serum is an essential skincare routine as it helps in healing skin damage. After applying the essence, our skin becomes ready to absorb the products. It is the best time to apply the serum. It is a concentrated and heavier version of an essence. The presence of many active ingredients in the serum makes it suitable for dealing with skin problems like anti-aging, skin brightening, oil-control, dark spots, pore-minimizing, hydrating, and many more.
Korean skincare has given special attention to this product and you will find a good range of Korean face serum that works on the skin very well.
7. Sheet mask
It is not wrong in saying that almost all skincare lovers must have heard about the benefits of a sheet mask. Korean skincare always prefers a sheet mask to include in the skincare routine. These are made of cotton or microfibres often dipped in natural extracts, serums, vitamins, essential oils, and hyaluronic acid. It pampers the skin by nourishing, hydrating, detoxing, and rejuvenating the skin.
A person with dull skin must include sheet masks in their routine. It provides a soft and smooth radiant glow to the face. You can even use it as a quick fix before a party or an event if you do not have time to visit a salon.
8. Eye cream
The area under the eyes is delicate and sensitive as compared to other skin and it needs more care. A stressful lifestyle and frequent exposure to the elements can affect the skin around your eyes which is more vulnerable to damage. Applying eye cream under the eye can help you in dealing the problems like dark circles, puffiness, wrinkles, and fine lines around your eyes. They soothe the skin under your eyes and keep it hydrated.
9. Emulsion Or Moisturizer
You can choose from emulsion and moisturizer as per your need. There are differences in their textures. Emulsions are slightly lightweight with a water base and have a milky texture. It is preferred for oily skin types however it can be used for any skin type. Moisturizers have a heavy texture that can be used by dry skin people.
The Koreans believe that this step is vital to lock in the previous layers. It acts like a barrier and retains moisture in the skin. If you have extremely dry skin you can first use an emulsion and follow it up with a moisturizer.
10. SPF Or Sleeping mask
The last depends on what time you are having your skincare routine. If it is a daytime routine, you can end it with a good SPF. As part of your Korean morning skincare routine select a broad-spectrum sunscreen that has SPF 15 or more. For oily skin, you can use non-comedogenic sunscreen. Do not skip this step as it shields your skin and protects it against harmful UV rays.
If you are having a night skincare routine, you can use a night gel or a sleeping mask according to your skin type. To address specific skin issues, you can use a sleeping mask two to three times a week.
This 10-step Korean skincare works well for the desired results only if you follow this regularly with the right product. So choose your skincare products wisely to achieve glass skin just like Korean beauty.
