Korean Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide to Glowing Skin

Korean Skincare Routine: A Step-by-Step Guide to Glowing Skin

The 10-step Korean skincare routine is a comprehensive approach that prioritizes deep cleansing, nourishment, and protection for the skin. Though it may seem lengthy, the flexibility of the regimen allows for adaptation to individual skin needs and time availability. Here’s a breakdown of the essential steps:

  1. Oil Cleansing: Start by using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, pollutants, and excess sebum. This helps the skin prepare for a deeper cleanse.

  2. Water-Based Cleansing: Follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities, ensuring that the skin is thoroughly clean.

  3. Exfoliation: Exfoliate to remove dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and brighter complexion. You can choose between physical scrubs or chemical exfoliants (AHAs and BHAs).

  4. Toning: Apply a mild toner to balance the skin’s pH and hydrate it, making it more receptive to the products that follow.

  5. Essence: Essences provide deep hydration and nourishment to the skin, improving its overall health, texture, and appearance.

  6. Treatments: Depending on your skin concerns (e.g., acne, wrinkles, dark spots), apply targeted treatments like serums or ampoules that address specific issues.

  7. Sheet Mask: Sheet masks are great for a moisture boost, helping the skin look fresh and revitalized by infusing it with active ingredients like collagen, hyaluronic acid, or vitamin C.

  8. Eye Cream: The delicate under-eye area requires a hydrating eye cream to tackle issues like dark circles and fine lines.

  9. Moisturizer: Use a moisturizer suited to your skin type to seal in moisture and maintain the skin’s protective barrier.

  10. Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Reapply every two hours or after exposure to water or sweat.

Essential Korean Skincare Products

To enhance the results of your routine, you can incorporate these must-have products:

  • Cleansers: A double cleansing routine with an oil cleanser (e.g., Anua Cleansing Oil) followed by a gentle water-based cleanser (e.g., Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser) ensures a thorough yet gentle cleanse.
  • Exfoliants: Regular exfoliation with products like the Nacific Pink AHABHA kit helps improve skin texture and tone.
  • Toners: Hydrating, alcohol-free toners (e.g., Cosrx AHA BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner) restore the skin’s pH and prepare it for further products.
  • Essences: The Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a top choice for nourishing and hydrating the skin.
  • Treatments: Serums like the Beauty of Joseon Arbutin serum target specific skin concerns like dullness and pigmentation.
  • Sheet Masks: Use masks like Jayjun Green Mask once or twice a week to boost hydration and give your skin a revitalizing treatment.
  • Eye Creams: Hydrating eye creams with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides nourish the delicate under-eye area.
  • Moisturizers: Choose moisturizers based on your skin type to ensure long-lasting hydration (oil-free options for oily skin, creamier options for dry skin).
  • Sunscreens: Products like Isntree Watery Gel Sunscreen provide SPF protection while also moisturizing the skin with hyaluronic acid.

Consistency is key to achieving the glowing, radiant skin associated with the Korean skincare routine. Customizing the routine to your skin's specific needs will ensure that you get the best results over time.

Back to blog