Guide

Korean skincare routines are multi-step processes that prioritize hydration, gentle exfoliation, and targeted treatments to achieve desired results. Known for its meticulous and holistic approach, this regimen yields a radiant complexion.

However, before embarking on a multi-step K-beauty skincare routine, it’s crucial to comprehend your skin type thoroughly. Korean skincare emphasizes the use of highly hydrating ingredients that support skin barrier health. This approach is beneficial for all skin types, especially sensitive skin, due to its gentle yet effective nature.

Oil-based Cleansers

Step 1. Oil-based Cleanser (Once a day, usually at night)

This is the initial step of the Korean skincare routine. It can be performed once daily to remove a day’s worth of water-resistant makeup and sunscreen. Oil-based cleansers deeply cleanse within the pores, gently dissolve makeup and dirt, and all without disrupting the skin barrier.

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Water-based Cleanser

Step 2. Water-based Cleanser (Twice a day)

It uses water as its primary ingredient and is formulated to effectively remove dirt, sweat, and water-based impurities (such as dust and environmental pollutants) from the skin. Unlike oil-based cleansers, water-based cleansers are designed to target and dissolve hydrophilic (water-soluble) substances, leaving your skin feeling fresh and clean.

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Exfoliants

Step 3. Exfoliant (As needed)

They are essential components of your skincare routine. Exfoliation involves removing dead skin cells from the surface layer of your skin. There are two main methods of exfoliation: physical and chemical.The frequency, strengths (in percentages), and type of exfoliant you choose are based on your skin’s needs, type, and preferences. 

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Toners

Step 4. Toners (Twice a day)

They are liquid moisturizers that enhance the skin’s surface, providing it with the necessary hydration and refreshment. They also aid in the recovery of moisture lost during cleansing.

Furthermore, toners can offer specific benefits tailored to different skin types and concerns. For instance, they can help reduce enlarged pores and excess oil in combination or oily skin types. Conversely, they can minimize redness and flaking in normal, dry, or sensitive skin types.

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Essences/Serums

Step 5/6. Essence/Serums (Up to twice a day)

An Essence, a lightweight watery consistency, is the initial step in skin treatment after toning. It prepares the skin for the next product by resurfacing and smoothing it, creating a smooth canvas for effective absorption. The texture is usually heavier than a toner yet lighter than a serum.

After essence step, you apply your Serum, which typically has a gel-like texture and is slightly thicker than essence. Serums are formulated with higher concentrations of active ingredients and other repairing components, making them more effective in addressing specific skin concerns. 

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Moisturizers

Step 7. Moisturizers (Twice a day)

Face moisturizing is a crucial step in your skincare routine. To maximize its benefits, moisturize your face at least twice a day. Your skin needs moisture to stay hydrated and nourished. Be sure to follow up with a sunscreen during the day.

From light gel moisturizers for oily/combination skin, to whipped cream for dryer skin, korean moisturizers come in a variety of elegant textures.

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Eye Moisturizers

Step 8. Eye Moisturizers (Twice a day)

Eye moisturizers are formulated to enhance your skin care routine by addressing concerns like dark circles, puffiness, and dryness around the delicate eyes area.  

Korea, a hub of beauty innovation, boasts some of the best eye creams on the market. What sets them apart are peptides, often paired with proven revitalizers like retinoids, niacinamide, and ceramides, make these formulas highly effective.These ingredients work wonders, providing visible brightening, smoothing, and moisturizing benefits without causing irritation. 

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Moisturizers

Step 9. SPF (During the day)

Helps safeguard your skin from harmful UV rays and environmental stressors during the day. This is a crucial step of any routine. This means protecting yourself on cloudy days as well.

Masks

Step 10. Masks (As needed)

Enhance your skincare regimen by incorporating sheet masks, wash-off masks, lip masks, and overnight sleeping packs. These products will effectively brighten and hydrate your skin, resulting in a radiant and velvety-soft complexion.

Wash-off and Sheet masks are typically used after the cleansing steps, followed by the rest of your skincare routine.

Overnight masks are used overnight as the final step to your skincare routine.

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