Korean skincare in 10 essential steps
How to get perfect Korean skin in 10 key steps.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
Essential in your skincare routine, especially at night when your face has accumulated all the impurities, excess sebum, and makeup. Start with a cleansing oil for your first cleanse, then follow with a gentle foaming cleanser. The idea is to start with an oil-based cleanser, then use a water-based cleanser to get a complete cleanse.
Step 2: Exfoliation
This step will remove dead skin cells that dull the skin and clog pores. Don't overdo it; use twice or three times a week to avoid irritation, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Step 3: Toning Lotion
Traditional toners can sometimes be too drying, but in Korean skincare, they serve a completely different purpose. K-beauty toners are formulated with refreshing and hydrating ingredients (green tea, galactomyces, ginseng, etc.) and are applied to restore the skin's pH, provide basic hydration, and allow for better absorption of future products (layering is a key step in achieving glass skin).
Step 4: Add an essence
Essences, less concentrated than serums, are generally lighter and more watery. Like targeted treatments, they are formulated to address skin concerns such as pigmentation and redness, but with the added goal of providing mega-hydration.
Step 5: Treatment with a serum or ampoule
Ampoules typically contain a higher concentration of multi-purpose active ingredients. These concentrated actives help nourish skin, reverse the signs of aging, and promote collagen to boost firmness, minimize pores, or even skin tone (as needed). Some ampoules are only meant to be used over a certain period of time (to target skin emergencies); for daily use, use a hydrating serum with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or vitamin E instead.
Step 6: Fabric masks
They are the easiest way to soothe skin, repair damage, and lock in and replenish moisture. In 10 to 20 minutes, you can enjoy healthier skin and a brighter complexion. We recommend using them 2 to 3 times a week.
Step 7: Hydration
Choose a product that provides maximum hydration and will help seal all layers. Look for nourishing botanical extracts, powerful moisturizers, and antioxidants.
Step 8: Apply eye cream
You won't be able to achieve perfect skin if you have dry areas and bags under your eyes, this area tends to be drier than the rest of the face.
Step 9: Seal with facial oil (night only)
Adding a facial oil is the final step in your routine. It nourishes your skin and seals in moisture, but it also protects against daily stresses that destroy the skin barrier. No matter what you choose, remember that this should always be the last step!
Step 10: Use sunscreen (morning only)
Without sun-protected skin, there's no point in thinking you'll achieve perfect skin. No matter how many steps you take in your routine, skin damaged by UV rays won't glow. Sun protection is a must year-round. Consider a lightweight, highly hydrating formula.