Korean skincare has gained a massive following over the years due to its unique approach to achieving radiant and youthful-looking skin. It’s a multi-step routine that involves several products to help nourish and enhance the skin’s natural glow. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the 10-step Korean skincare routine and the benefits that come with it.
Step 1: Oil Cleanser
The first step in the Korean skincare routine is the oil-based cleanser, which is used to remove any makeup or dirt that has accumulated on the skin. This product is formulated to dissolve even the most stubborn makeup and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils. It’s best to apply the oil cleanser on dry skin, massage it gently, and rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser
After removing the makeup and dirt from the skin, it’s important to cleanse the skin further using a water-based cleanser. This type of cleanser helps to remove any remaining impurities that the oil cleanser might have missed. It’s also designed to balance the skin’s pH levels, leaving it feeling refreshed and clean.
Step 3: Exfoliator
Exfoliating is a crucial step in the Korean skincare routine as it helps to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. Korean skincare products typically use gentle exfoliating ingredients such as AHAs and BHAs that are safe for regular use. Exfoliating once or twice a week can help improve the skin’s texture and tone, leaving it looking brighter and smoother.
Step 4: Toner
Toner is used to hydrate the skin and prepare it for the next steps in the skincare routine. It helps to balance the skin’s pH levels, which can become disrupted after cleansing. Toners are also designed to soothe and calm the skin, making it more receptive to other skincare products.
Step 5: Essence
Essence is a lightweight liquid that’s packed with active ingredients that help to hydrate and nourish the skin. It’s typically used after the toner and before any serums or moisturizers. Essence is designed to penetrate the skin deeply, delivering potent ingredients that help to improve the skin’s texture and tone.
Step 6: Serum
Serums are highly concentrated products that are formulated to target specific skin concerns such as dark spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. They contain active ingredients such as vitamins, antioxidants, and peptides that help to improve the overall appearance of the skin. Serums are typically applied after the essence and before the moisturizer.
Step 7: Sheet Mask
Sheet masks are a popular part of the Korean skincare routine and are designed to provide an intensive boost of hydration and nourishment to the skin. They’re typically made from materials such as cotton or hydrogel and are infused with various active ingredients. Sheet masks are left on the skin for around 20 minutes, allowing the ingredients to penetrate deeply into the skin.
Step 8: Eye Cream
The skin around the eyes is delicate and prone to fine lines and wrinkles. Eye creams are formulated to hydrate and nourish this delicate skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and dark circles. They’re typically applied using the ring finger, which applies the least amount of pressure to the skin.
Step 9: Moisturizer
Moisturizer is a vital part of any skincare routine, and Korean skincare is no exception. Moisturizers are designed to hydrate and nourish the skin, leaving it feeling soft and supple. They’re typically applied after the serum and before the sunscreen.
Step 10: Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine as it helps to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Korean sunscreens are lightweight, non-greasy, and provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. They’re typically applied as the last step in the Korean skincare routine, ensuring that the skin is fully protected from the sun’s damaging rays.
