What are the different steps of a Korean skincare routine?

Korean Skincare, contrary to the "skinimalism" trend, involves layering skincare products one on top of the other, morning and night, to maximize their effectiveness. This layering, which can go up to 10 layers, is called layering.

The order of application of the different products is essential: the first ones clean and prepare the skin for the subsequent treatments, the intermediate ones are targeted treatments, and the last ones aim to lock everything in to keep the active ingredients inside the skin and protect it from external aggressions.

So, what are these 10 steps and why are they beneficial?

     Oil-based cleansing

The oil-based cleanser, also known as makeup remover, is at the forefront of your skincare routine. It comes in the form of an oil or balm and effectively lifts and dissolves oil-based impurities such as makeup, sunscreen, and sebum to free the pores. Another advantage of oil cleansers is that they are hydrating and nourishing. This step is crucial, especially for oily skin.

Usage: Morning and/or evening

Water-based cleanser

The water-based cleanser is the second step of the skincare routine. Together with the oil-based cleanser, they form the double cleanse. This foaming cleanser deep cleanses pores of water-based residues. This ensures that subsequent products penetrate the skin deeply and helps maintain the skin's pH.
This cleanser comes in the form of cleansing water, gel, foam, lotion, or cleansing cream. For oily skin, it is best to opt for a gel cleanser, while those in foam, lotion, or cream are better tolerated by dry skin.

Usage: Morning and evening (optional in the morning for normal to dry skin)

Exfoliant

The third step of layering is to exfoliate your face in the evening after cleansing it. Exfoliation is a key step in the Korean skincare routine as it helps remove dead cells, even out and smooth the complexion, and promote cell renewal. There are two main types: physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, and chemical exfoliants, such as AHAs and BHAs. Chemical exfoliants, which are less aggressive for the skin, are generally preferred in K-beauty routines.

Usage: 1 to 2 times a week

Toner

Toner helps to close open pores and remove dead skin cells that accumulate on the top layer of the skin. It eliminates all residues left by cleansing as well as limescale, thus rebalancing the skin's pH to prepare it for the next steps of the treatment. Unlike their traditional Western counterparts, Korean toners prioritize skin hydration and nourishment, adding an additional refreshing layer to keep the complexion revitalized.

Usage: Morning and evening

Essence

This water-based formula hydrates the skin from within and brings out its radiance to brighten the complexion. Its watery consistency penetrates deeply and evaporates quickly. By ensuring the skin is properly hydrated, it becomes less prone to irritation. Essences can also come in spray form. Wait a few minutes for everything to be absorbed before moving on to the next step.

Usage: Morning and evening

Serum/Ampoule

Serums and ampoules are powerful formulas that target specific skin concerns such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles. These products, to be applied to slightly damp skin, aim to improve skin health. Ampoules are known to have an even higher concentration than serums to offer intensive treatment and optimal results. Be careful, ampoule treatments should be limited in time so as not to damage the skin.

Usage: Morning and evening

Mask

Face masks have become a staple in Korean skincare. They deeply nourish and hydrate the skin while addressing specific issues. Soaked in a wealth of active ingredients (such as hyaluronic acid or vitamins), masks offer a quick and effective solution. There are several types, including sheet masks, wash-off masks, and sleeping masks. All that's left is to customize your routine according to your desires and needs.

-> Tips! Do not leave on longer than the indicated time, as this can have the opposite effect. The sheet mask will dry out and try to pull moisture from the skin.

Usage: 1 to 2 times a week (exception for some sheet masks that can be used daily)

Eye care

The more delicate and sensitive skin around the eyes requires special care, which makes eye cream an important step in K-Beauty. Eye creams, which can be replaced by "patches" or eye masks, target cell rejuvenation and the reduction of the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and puffiness.

Usage: Morning and evening

Moisturizer

Once all active ingredients have been applied to the face, the moisturizer acts as a protective barrier. By retaining moisture, moisturizers keep the skin smooth and supple throughout the day.
Moisturizers usually come in cream form, but they also exist as gels, lotions, or even oils.

Usage: Morning and evening

Sun protection

One of the particularities of Korean skincare is the daily application of sunscreen to the face, even in winter. It protects against harmful UV rays and prevents skin aging and hyperpigmentation. If you have dry skin, you can use a cream-based sunscreen, while if you have rather oily skin, gel or water-based formulas that regulate oil production are preferable.

Usage: Daily, reapply several times a day as needed