Don’t have time for a multi-step Korean beauty routine? Fret not, as we’ve done all the hard work for you and picked the most important steps in a Korean skincare routine. And while a typical Korean beauty routine consists of more than ten steps, we’ve narrowed it down to 5 uncomplicated, easy-to-follow ones. Just remember to embrace layering and be open to trying new textures and products – we promise there’s better skin at the end of it!
Korean Beauty Step 1: Cleanse
We’ve often harped about starting with a clean face and the Koreans too would have it no other way. First off, your usual facial cleanser is NOT enough to remove all the makeup, oil, and dirt you have on your skin! Cue, double cleansing – the act of washing your face with a cleansing oil and balm before a second cleanser. You don’t have to be worried about over-cleaning your face, as cleansing oils and balms are gentle and nourishing. As for your second cleanser, it can be any foam or gel cleanser, ideally gentle, that can help to remove any leftover gunk after your oil cleanser has been through your face. Try and save double cleansing for the night, so you can give more time to cleaning your face and it can reap the benefits of skincare right after.
Step 2: Tone
Many would question the need for a toner but it is in fact the easiest way to prepare your skin for the next steps of skincare. Toners also help to balance your skin’s pH levels so it can better absorb all that skincare you’ve got coming! And here’s a tip, put your toner in the fridge and gain from its soothing, anti-inflammatory effect. If you’re a fan of skin icing, you can also just freeze your toner and get the same impact but better!
Korean Beauty Step 3: Essence, Serums and Ampoules
This is the step where you choose the right skincare for your skin type. Essences help to plump the skin up and keep it moisturised, while your trusted serum can take care of any skin troubles you may have. New on the market, ampoules are concentrated versions of serums and affect your skin in a more dense manner. Which one to apply first? Follow the rule of thin to thick and in most cases, it will be ampoule, followed by essence followed by serum.
Step 4: Moisturise
We all know that moisturising is an essential step of any skincare routine, Korean beauty or not! Whether it is to keep your skin hydrated and plump or brighten, tighten and steer clear of excess sebum, a moisturiser is core to your skincare drawer. A good moisturiser, aside from locking in moisture, also gives the skin a protective barrier against environmental skin aggressors. Move to a lighter hydration product for the day and a heavier, rich cream for the night.
Korean Beauty Step 5: Sunscreen
Yes, even the Koreans won’t have you escaping sunscreen! Sunscreen is a protective shield that saves your skin from UVA and UVB rays and keeps all age-related symptoms on your skin(such as wrinkles, fine lines etc) at bay. You also need to get in the habit of wearing sunscreen regardless of whether it is a cloudy day or not. This is why finding a sun protection product that your skin loves is of prime importance. Look around for options that are non-comedogenic, don’t leave a white cast and are light on your skin. Once you find that magic combination(and trust us, there are plenty of options), you’ll never want to skip sunscreen again.
These are the basic 5 steps in a Korean skincare routine. However, if you’d like to take things a notch higher, throw in a face mask after your cleansing routine and reap the additional benefits of powerful ingredients in the form of a home-based spa!
