Guide: Korean Skincare in 10 Steps

What is K-Beauty?

K-Beauty stands for skincare and beauty from South Korea. It is known for featuring innovative and natural ingredients like snail extract and charcoal. What typically characterizes K-Beauty is the comprehensive 10-step skincare routine that focuses on hydration, cleansing, and anti-aging. It is important to remember that skincare is highly individual and different products behave differently depending on skin type and personal preference.

Double Cleansing the Face

A hallmark of the Korean skincare routine is the double cleanse. First, you start by removing all oil-based impurities, makeup, and excess sebum by washing your face with an oil-based cleanser, and then you follow up with a water-based cleanser. Repeat your cleansing routines every morning and evening!

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Oil-Based Facial Cleanser

Start by removing all oil-based impurities sitting on the skin, such as makeup, sunscreen, and other pollutants. Massage your face using soft, upward circular motions and then add water so the cleanser turns milky. A common myth is that oil cleansing causes breakouts, but it's actually the opposite as they are very mild and effective.

Water-Based Facial Cleanser

A water-based Facial Cleanser is perfect for removing the remaining oil and dirt. Wet your face and use a cleanser that either lathers or has the texture of a cream. Massage your face with soft upward circular motions and rinse off with lukewarm water.

Peeling and Exfoliation

Exfoliate your skin about twice a week with a gentle product, such as an enzyme peel. The effect is that it promotes the skin's natural cell renewal, dissolves clogged pores, and allows subsequent products to be absorbed more easily.

Toner

A Toner lays the foundation for your other skincare products by balancing the skin's pH value. Pat the product into your skin using your palms. In South Korea, it is mainly used to provide nutrients, such as antioxidants, and to soften the skin and lock in moisture.

Essences

An essence is applied before a Serum to give the skin an extra deep moisture boost. The essence has smaller molecules than a serum and helps the skin absorb the remaining products better. Pat gently into the skin morning and night.

Ampoules

Ampoules are highly concentrated products filled with active ingredients that target specific concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation. These are for the more experienced user and are recommended 1–2 times a week as a boost.

Korean Sheet Masks

Sheet Masks are concentrated Face Masks that rest on the skin and allow the product to absorb slowly. There are different masks for different skin types. Let it sit for 10–20 minutes and then pat the excess serum into your skin, onto the neck, and décolletage.

Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is thinner and more sensitive than the rest of the face. Use a tailored Eye Cream to protect and provide hydration. Pat the product in gently.

Face Cream

A Face Cream creates a barrier that locks in all the moisturizing products you have already applied, preventing them from evaporating from the skin.

Sunscreen

Don't forget to always apply Sunscreen in the morning. The sun is the biggest cause of premature aging, wrinkles, and pigmentation spots – always protect your skin.

Sleep Mask

A Sleep Mask is used to