Breaking Down the 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine
The Korean skincare routine has taken the beauty world by storm, promising a path to dewy, “glass skin” through a meticulous, multi-step process. But is it a complicated chore or a revolutionary ritual? This guide breaks down the famous 10-step method, explaining each step for both your morning and evening routines, so you can build a regimen that works for you.
Breaking Down the Korean Skin-Care Routine:
Don’t believe that 10 steps is a strict daily need. The Korean skincare regimen is based on the idea that layering moisturizing, light products in the right order to properly feed the skin is more important than the number of stages. It’s a personalized strategy emphasizing gentle care, hydration, and prevention.
In This Story: Korean Skincare Routine Korean Skincare Routine
From the crucial double cleanse to the last closing stages of moisturizer and SPF, we will walk you through every step of a full Korean skincare routine.
The 10-Step Korean Skin Care Essentials in a Korean Skincare Routine
Consider these actions a menu rather than a requirement. Every day, you can make different choices depending on what your skin requires. Applying cosmetics from the thinnest, water-based consistency to the thickest is the golden rule of the Korean skincare routine order.
AM Step 1: Oil-Based or Balm Cleanser
Unless you have extremely oily skin or used a heavy sleeping pack the night before, this is usually skipped in the morning. Usually, a spray of water is enough.
PM Step 1: Oil Cleanser
This serves as the first, non-negotiable stage in the “double cleanse.” Without stripping the skin, an oil-based cleanser or balm efficiently removes makeup, sunscreen, and sebum.
AM Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser
To prepare your skin for the upcoming products, wash away any overnight pollutants with a mild, low-pH, water-based cleanser (foam or gel).
PM Step 2: Water-based Cleanser
The second half of the double cleanse is its goal. This stage guarantees that the oil cleanse’s residue and any leftover dirt are removed, leaving the canvas immaculate.
AM Step 3: Exfoliator
Exfoliation is usually done sporadically (one to three times each week). A mild chemical exfoliator, such as an AHA, can help lighten skin in the morning. Don’t exfoliate every day.
PM Step 3: Exfoliation
Goal: Since the skin can heal itself overnight, exfoliation is best done in the evening. For congested pores, use a BHA; for dull surfaces, use an AHA. Always drink more water thereafter.
AM Step 4: Toner
The goal of Korean toners is to distinguish them from harsh astringents. They are frequently referred to as “skin” or “refreshers” and are hydrating products that produce a first layer of moisture and restore the pH balance of the skin.
PM Step 4: Toner
It serves the same hydrating purpose as the AM, but it’s particularly important to rehydrate at night after cleansing and exfoliation.
AM Step 5: Essence
A distinctive component of the Korean skincare regimen. Lightweight, moisturizing liquids called essences are loaded with nutrients and fermented components to increase the flexibility of the skin and get it ready for serums.
PM Step 5: Essence
Use: To support the skin’s natural nighttime repair process, apply liberally in the PM.
Step 6: Prescription Topicals korean skincare routineThis is the time to apply any therapies that your dermatologist has suggested, letting them work on clean, naked skin.
AM Step 7: Treatments
This stage is for ampoules and tailored serums. A vitamin C serum is best used in the morning since it provides antioxidant protection against pollutants and UV rays.
AM Step 8: Eye Cream To protect the sensitive eye area, gently massage a hydrating eye cream around the orbital bone.
AM Step 9: Moisturizer
The goal of a moisturizer is to seal in all of the earlier layers. Select a lighter gel or lotion that complements sunscreen for use during the day.
Step 10 AM: SPF
Goal: Korean skincare’s most crucial stage. Your final morning step must be a broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent photoaging and protect your skin.
