I’m sure many of you have encountered the ‘Korean Skin Care Routine’ over the years. It has gained popularity not only in Asia but all across the world. Initially, everyone expected it to be a simple trend that fades over time, but it is here to stay!
Korean women are known for their glowing skin thanks to a unique skin care regimen. It involves up to 10 steps or more, which is much more extensive than what you are generally used to, which can be a bit daunting. But we will break down the steps and make it simple to understand so you can customize it to fit your requirements.
Skin Comes First
If you are a K-beauty fan, then you know how important it is to choose the right formulations. According to the South Korean Ministry of Environment, women, on average, use 12 personal skin care products. And these products contain at least 126 different chemical ingredients with so many positive effects on your skin.
Korean Skin Care Routine
Although it is lengthy, it is 100% worth it! You will realize it once you see the fantastic results on your skin. The routine might feel a bit overwhelming initially, but once you get used to it, it’s fun!
Let’s, get you much closer to attaining healthy, glowing skin! It’s all about achieving youthful radiance from within.
#1 Oil Cleanser
An oil-based cleanser removes the first layer of dirt and makeup from the face. It gently dissolves sebum, sweat, SPF, and makeup layers from the skin. The cleanser works without disturbing the skin’s pH or removing the natural oils from the skin. Oil cleansers work on all skin types, even oily skin. People often think an oil cleanser will make the skin oily, but that’s not the case. An oil-based cleanser is gentler in its cleansing action as you don’t have to scrub harshly to remove your waterproof makeup and mascara.
#2 Water-Based Cleanser
Well, the cleansing is not yet complete. You need another type of Korean skin care product to remove any traces of dirt and makeup from your face. It is called double cleansing, and it involves using a water-based cleanser. A water-based cleanser ensures no residue is left after the oil-cleansing step and leaves skin supple. Finding a gentle formula with a low pH is essential so that it won’t strip or dry out the skin. A water-based cleanser with a pH, preferably below 7, will keep the skin balanced and protect its moisture balance.
#3 Exfoliator
This step gets rid of dead skin cells and makes it possible for Korean beauty products to penetrate your pores. It is essential to exfoliate as it removes dead skin cells. And if you skip it, it will be harder for Korean skin care products to work their magic on the skin. You can choose between a chemical exfoliator or a physical scrub to exfoliate at least twice a week.
#4 Toner
Toner balances your skin’s pH levels so that it remains hydrated. Korean toner is different from other toners as they are designed to hydrate and moisturize after cleansing. Toner further helps to absorb the next skin care products you apply to your face.
#5 Essence
Essences are formulated with varying viscosities, but they have the same purpose. It aids in cell turnover while hydrating and repairing skin. Most people may be unfamiliar with essence in the Korean skin care routine. They have a watery texture and feel like a serum. In straightforward terms, essences are a hybrid between a toner and a serum. It absorbs quickly into the skin and adds another layer of moisture and skin-repairing ingredients to your skin. Imagine your skin like a sponge – essence turns your skin into a sponge so that it absorbs everything else more efficiently.
#6 Treatments – Serums & Ampoules
Treatments like serums, ampoules, and boosters target and treat specific skin needs. It is a vital step, as these Korean beauty products are packed with active ingredients that tackle different skin concerns. Whether you are dealing with dryness, acne, hyperpigmentation, or even fine line, treatments are the way to go! But, you must be patient to see a difference while using them. At least for these highly concentrated treatments, it’ll take about a month to see changes.
#7 Sheet Mask
Sheet masks maximize nourishment and are formulated with the same active ingredients as serums. A good arsenal of sheet masks allows you to customize your routine depending on what your skin needs. And the best part about sheet masks is to sit back, relax, and let the mask do its work.
#8 Eye Cream
Eye creams protect and hydrate delicate eye areas. People may consider it as an optional step, but if you want to avoid wrinkles around your eyes, its best to start off early! You may not see any difference now, but your future self will thank you. The area around the eyes is delicate, so you shouldn’t rub the cream but gently tap it with your fingers. The skin is at its thinnest as there are no sebaceous glands to produce natural oils. It is crucial to keep the area hydrated and protected all day long.
#9 Moisturizers
A moisturizer is designed to create a barrier for your skin that will lock in all the beneficial ingredients from Korean beauty products that you’ve applied. It will prevent them from evaporating out of your skin. Moisturizers have a thicker consistency that helps in sealing everything you’ve put on your face. It will keep your skin hydrated all day long.
#10 Sunscreens
You’ve made it to the end! Sunscreen is a must for everyone, even if you are not following the Korean skin care routine. It prevents aging and, of course, skin cancer! Even if it is cloudy or winter, sunscreen is essential as it protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays. Finish your daily skin care routine every morning with a dedicated sunscreen or BB cream that includes SPF.
The Bottom Line
It’s not too bad, is it? Doing the complete routine every morning can be tedious when you are just starting off. You can simplify the routine a bit by following five out of these ten steps – cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. It is important to remember that you always apply the lightest products first and progress to the heavier ones. You need to remember that everyone’s skin is different, and you’ll have to find the perfect set of Korean beauty products that work for your skin.
Eat and Sleep Well
Korean women believe in a holistic approach to skin care. Healthy eating and proper sleep are just as important as the use of Korean skin care products in their daily routines. Food is medicine, even when it comes to your skin. If you have skin trouble, it can be treated by skin care products as well as food.
You can get your hands on a 10-Step Korean Skin Care Routine Set for normal skin type from Soko Glam.
Comment below if you have any questions about the routine and we’ll do our best to answer it!
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