The K-beauty phenomenon is well-known for its emphasis on skincare and natural ingredients. It is a holistic approach that cultivates mindfulness and self-care.
In this series, esthetician Charlotte Cho reveals the secrets behind the world-renowned Korean 10-step skin-care routine. From double cleansing to applying serums, essences, and moisturizers, you will learn how to maintain healthy, glowing skin.
1. Double Cleansing
A mainstay in K-beauty skincare, double cleansing is an essential step in preventing breakouts and clogged pores. First, cleanse with an oil-based product like Heimish All Clean Balm to remove makeup and sunscreen; then rinse off and wash again with a water-based cleanser (gel or foam).
The result is skin that’s squeaky clean and free of impurities. Plus, a clean face will absorb more effectively the rest of your skincare routine. This means serums, moisturizers, and even sun protection will be better absorbed into the skin. Double cleansing can be done 1-2 times a day, and it’s suitable for all skin types.
2. Exfoliation
A physical exfoliator is an essential part of a Korean skincare routine for skin that is dull and rough. While you don’t want to over-exfoliate, exfoliating 1-3 times per week removes dead skin cells and keeps your complexion smooth.
An oil-based cleanser (step 1 in a 10-step Best Korean skincare routine) is a great way to break down makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum without drying out your skin or disrupting your natural oils. The second cleanse, with a water-based product, removes any remaining debris.
Patting on toner balances the pH level and preps skin for the rest of your routine. Misting your face periodically throughout the day will also reactivate and replenish any products you have applied.
3. Sheet Masks
Sheet masks are an essential part of the Korean ten step routine and provide that extra hydration to keep skin soft, smooth and supple. The face-shaped sheets are soaked in serums that are designed to suit different skin concerns.
Choose a hydrating mask with ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, cucumber and oatmeal to soothe dryness. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, choose a clarifying mask with willow bark to unclog pores, salicylic acid to combat breakouts and tea tree oil to reduce redness.
Sheet masks are also an effective way to prevent your skin from absorbing ingredients in skincare products that may do more harm than good over time. For example, ingredients such as alcohol, polyethylene glycol (PEG), phenoxyethanol and ethylhexylglycerin are found in many beauty products.
4. Steams and Facial Massage
The Korean skincare routine that’s been dominating social media as of late might seem like a lot to keep up with, but it’s actually fairly simple. While many people start with a 10-step routine, it’s all about tailoring the steps to your skin’s needs.
For example, an oil cleanser can help remove makeup and dirt that regular soap and water might miss. And a steam facial is not only relaxing, but it also helps clear congestion and exfoliates to reveal newer skin cells. After that, an essence hydrates the skin and speeds up cell turnover.
5. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential part of Korean skincare, especially as the country has four very distinct seasons. Protecting against UV rays is vital to preventing dark spots, premature aging and even skin cancer.
Evening routines are typically longer, with more steps devoted to exfoliation and masks. The nighttime routine may also include a sleeping mask or serum that provides an intense hydrating boost and resurfaces skin to help achieve that signature glass-like glow.
Although it’s only recently that K-beauty has become a major trend Stateside, Korean skincare practices and philosophies have been around for decades. It’s not just about following 10 steps – it’s about finding the right products and establishing a truly tailored routine that works for you and your skin.
6. Neck Care
The full 10-step Korean skincare routine can be hard to do, especially with a busy schedule. So, if you can’t commit to all 10 steps, try cutting down to five.
Start with an oil-based cleanser, which gently gets rid of makeup and sunscreen without stripping your skin. It also helps to balance the oil production in your skin and hydrates.
Follow with a watery essence that hydrates the deeper layers of your skin. You can use one that addresses your skin concerns, like this hyaluronic acid-packed serum by COSRX or one that nourishes with fermented snow lotus extract and bamboo sap by Hanskin.
7. Moisturizer
The ten-step Korean skincare regimen that many of us have heard about is quite an intense beauty store routine. Many people are curious about how it works, what sets K-beauty apart from other products and what exactly is involved in this multistep regime.
Moisturizer is an important part of the skin care routine, and there are plenty of options on the market. Dry skin types will benefit from a heavier cream-based formula, while oily skin can use lighter hydrators like gels and lotions. The occlusive layer helps to lock in all the other products that have been applied before, and it can be made even more effective by including ingredients that can prevent fine lines and wrinkles, such as peptides and vitamin C.
