The 10-step Korean skincare routine is the skincare regimen that includes thoroughly double cleansing, exfoliating, targeted treating, intensely hydrating, and applying sunscreen during the day. But it's more than a routine, it's a lifestyle that has become a global marvel, based on South Korea's cultural obsession with radiant and healthy skin, underpinned by decades of scientific progress, and explored by K-Pop groups and K-dramas.
Ten?! That might seem daunting, but we got you covered with the details of all the steps.
OIL-BASED CLEANSERS
Oil cleansers are the base of the korean skincare routine and the first step of the double cleanse. Oil-based cleansers remove makeup and draw out other oil-based impurities, such as sebum, SPF, ad pollution whilst being relaxing to use. Apply it in the mornings as well as the evenings to clear out any excess oil after a night's relaxing sleep and a day's hard work.
WATER-BASED CLEANSERS
The second step of the double cleanse. Cleansing twice is recommended to thoroughly remove any impurities, such as dirt and sweat, that can cause breakouts.
WASH-OFF MASKS
Wash off face masks are designed to be removed from the skin by rinsing away the product with lukewarm water. These types of masks come in a large variety to choose from, with the most well-known and common type being the traditional clay mask.
EXFOLIATORS
Exfoliatiors help strip debris of from pores and remove dead skin cells for visibly smoother and brighter skin. It is recommended to exfoliate 1-2 times a week, particularly the areas around the nose and the visible pores on your cheeks.
TONERS
Toners are the perfect preparation product, after cleansing and before nourishment, balancing moisture and pH levels. They remove any leftover residue from the double-cleanse whilst restoring the skin's natural barrier to effectively absorb the moisturizers. Think of your skin like a sponge, it's easier to rehydrate it when it's already damp, than when it's dried or hardened.
ESSENCES
Essences have a lot in common with toners, but generally they are more lightweight and packed with a concentrating blend of hydrating and anti-aging ingredients. In addition, essences promote cell turnovers which makes the skin brighter and smoother.
SERUMS
Serums are the perfect skin perfectors. They are packed with numerous powerhouse ingredients that target specific skin concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation and wrinkles. It is basically a more concentrated version of an essence. However, serums have a higher viscosity than essences.
SHEET MASKS
Sheet masks are the most recognizable of the Korean skincare routine, no wonder they because they allow the skin to fully absorb nutrients and moisture whilst being soothingly relaxing. They overflow your skin with hydration and other active, beneficial ingredients. Take a few minutes and lean back as the serum-soaked sheet masks do their magic on your complexion. Finally, enjoy the quiet, meditative ritual of a relaxing sheet mask.
EYE CREAMS
The skin around the eyes is most delicate of the face. Regularly using an intensive eye cream prevent dark circles, eye puffiness and wrinkles . They are concentrated with lots of gentle, beneficial ingredients.
MOISTURIZERS
After making sure each that area of your face gets the right kind of nourishment it needs to retain its youthful glow, top it all off with a moisturizer to ensure that the skin absorbs the wealth of love and care it has received. Moisturizers seal in the skin's moisture by plumping it up, keeping aging of the skin at bay.
SUN PROTECTION
The last step of the (morning) routine: add in a layer of SPF to protect the delicate skin from the damaging rays of the sun. Sun protection is essential as it prevents any sun damage that may cause premature-aging, uneven skin tone, and even skincancer!
SLEEPING MASKS
The last step of the (night) routine: apply a small layer of your favourite sleeping mask to aid the skin’s overnight healing. Sleeping masks are thicker creams that are made to be left on during a night's sleep. Wake up to a more strengthened, smoother and brighter skin!
