The Korean skincare routine
If you are interested in beauty trends, you have probably heard all about Korean skincare (also known as K-Beauty).
Korean beauty products come from and are manufactured in Korea. They are generally created with the Korean beauty philosophy in mind.
Korean beauty products are developed over a long period. Consistency and commitment are what yield their sought-after results. Think of it as the difference between going on a diet and having a clean lifestyle.
At its core, the routine is about respecting your skin. Instead of using products full of harmful ingredients that strip away the skin's natural barriers, the Korean skincare philosophy is about working with your skin's natural ecosystem by cleansing, hydrating, nourishing, and protecting it – so your skin can thrive.
What is Korean skincare?
Korean skincare focuses on preventing and protecting the skin rather than using products to address damage.
Korean skincare works with preventive measures which is always better, for once damage has occurred, it can be difficult to restore the skin to its original state.
Why is it so good?
The Korean skincare routine was not the discovery of one person or brand. It was more of a gradual evolution within the Korean skincare industry that many Koreans follow.
Korean skincare has transformed the skincare industry worldwide and captured the attention of people following beauty and skincare trends.
Not only does this type of routine often yield effective and consistent results, but it also contributes to people respecting their skin and taking a little extra "me-time".
What is "glass skin"?
The term "glass skin" is often used in the Korean beauty world to refer to smooth, clear, and intensely hydrated skin that appears translucent.
5, 7, 10, or 12 steps?
While 10 is the most common number of steps in Korean skincare routines, it is a rough estimate.
In general, Korean beauty routines include several steps. But overall, they focus on improving the skin gently while achieving lasting results.
Ultimately, it's not about following a specific number of steps, but about tailoring a skincare routine to your skin's needs. While many start with a 10-step routine, you can adjust up or down, depending on your needs or preferences.
10-step routine
The traditional 10-step routine is the most commonly used method for performing a Korean skincare routine. The 10-step routine may seem quite overwhelming, but once you start witnessing the results, you will be hooked. The 10-step routine can further be divided into four steps: Cleansing, Preparation, Nourishment, and Protection. Read more about the 10 steps here.
5-step routine
This easier version halves the popular 10-step routine. Perfect for those on a budget or short on time, these five steps are the most important and fundamental to do every morning.
- Oil-based cleansing
- Water-based cleansing
- Toner
- Moisturizer
- SPF
7-step routine
Compared to the 10-step routine, this one lacks an exfoliating product, sheet masks, and a SPF.
A 7-step routine is best for most evenings, considering the lack of SPF and because you do not need to exfoliate or use a mask every day.
- Oil-based cleansing
- Water-based cleansing
- Toner
- Sheet mask
- Serum
- Eye cream
- Moisturizer
12-step routine
Yes, there are still more steps. If you get to 10 steps and feel like continuing, another common one is a 12-step routine.
Follow the 10-step routine first and include these two additional steps:
11. Mist
If you have grown to love the usability that comes with that "glass skin" you have worked so hard for, a mist at regular intervals will help maintain and reactivate the products you use.
12. Maintenance facials
A facial treatment every week, complete with massage, is not unusual for Koreans and those who faithfully follow a Korean skincare routine.
Morning and evening routines
Morning and evening routines do not have to be the same.
Morning routines can be much more streamlined, focusing on hydration and sun protection.
Longer routines can be reserved for the evenings, including exfoliators, eye creams, masks, and more.
Different skin types
Different skin types may need to keep a few things in mind when deciding the best products and steps for their Korean skincare routine.
For oily skin
Despite what you might think, it is not counterintuitive to use an oil-based cleanser for oily skin. If you have oily skin, don't be afraid to embrace double cleansing.
For toners, oily skin types should opt for a light and less emollient formula.
For dry skin
For those with extra dry skin, you might just want to use an oil-based cleanser. Pay attention to how your skin feels and make the decision that makes the most sense.
For toners, dry skin benefits from moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid.
For combination skin
If you have combination skin, you should choose products that help balance your skin.
For acne-prone skin
If you have an active acne breakout, you may want to skip exfoliation until your skin has balanced out.
The takeaway
The number of steps in a Korean skincare routine may seem overwhelming, but they don't have to be.
Taking care of your skin is a form of self-care and thus self-love. Once you get the hang of it, these steps won't take much time at all.
The most important thing to figure out is whether a Korean skincare routine meets your targeted skincare needs. Then you can carefully address them with the right products. Additionally, proper application is equally important – both in the manner and order they are applied. Liquids or lighter products (like cleansers and toners) go first, and then the steps progress to heavier and thicker products (like moisturizers and SPF).