In the realm of beauty and skincare, the Korean approach has gained immense popularity for its meticulousness and efficacy. The Korean 10-step skincare routine has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its comprehensive approach to achieving radiant, healthy-looking skin.
Table of contents:
- What is Korean skin care?
- What is a Korean 10-step skin care routine?
- What are the benefits of a Korean 10-step skin care routine?
- What are the steps of a Korean 10-step skin care routine?
What is Korean Skin Care?
Korean skincare, often referred to as K-beauty, is a holistic approach to skincare deeply rooted in traditional Korean beauty rituals. It emphasises achieving clear, glowing skin through a combination of gentle yet effective products and a meticulous routine. At the heart of Korean skincare philosophy lies the belief that skincare should be approached as a form of self-care, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
What is a Korean 10-Step Skin Care Routine?
The Korean 10-step skincare routine is a multi-step regimen designed to address various skin care concerns while promoting overall skin health. It encompasses a series of cleansing, toning, treating, and moisturising steps, each serving a specific purpose in achieving radiant, youthful-looking skin. While the idea of a 10-step routine may seem daunting to some, many skin care enthusiasts swear by its transformative effects.
Benefits of a Korean 10-Step Skin Care Routine
Embracing the Korean 10-step skincare routine offers a myriad of benefits, including:
- Deep Cleansing: The double cleansing method ensures thorough removal of impurities, makeup, and sunscreen, allowing subsequent skincare products to penetrate deeply into the skin.
- Hydration: With multiple layers of hydrating products, this routine helps replenish moisture levels, keeping the skin plump, supple, and hydrated.
- Targeted Treatment: Each step in the routine addresses specific skin care concerns, whether it be acne, hyperpigmentation, or ageing, allowing for a customised approach to skin care.
- Enhanced Absorption: By layering lightweight to heavyweight products in the correct order, the skin is primed to absorb active ingredients more effectively, maximising their efficacy.
- Prevention: Consistent use of sunscreen helps protect the skin from harmful UV rays, preventing premature ageing, and reducing the risk of skin cancer.
Steps of a Korean 10-Step Skin Care Routine
Let's break down each step of the Korean 10-step skin care routine, along with product recommendations to kickstart your journey to radiant skin.
1. Oil-Based Cleanser
Start your skin care routine with an oil-based cleanser to effectively dissolve and remove oil-based impurities such as makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Massage the cleanser onto dry skin, emulsify with water, and rinse thoroughly. Product Recommendation: TBC
2. Water-Based/Foaming Cleanser
Follow up with a water-based or foaming cleanser to remove any remaining impurities and residues, leaving the skin clean and refreshed without stripping away its natural oils. Product Recommendation: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
3. Exfoliators
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, unclog pores, and promote skin renewal, revealing smoother, brighter skin. Use a gentle exfoliator 2-3 times a week to avoid over-exfoliation. Product Recommendation: Klairs Gentle Black Sugar Facial Polish
4. Sheet Mask
Sheet masks are soaked in concentrated serums infused with various beneficial ingredients, delivering intense hydration and nourishment to the skin. Apply a sheet mask and leave it on for 15-20 minutes to allow the essence to penetrate deeply. Product Recommendation: Some By Mi Real Hyaluron Hydra Care Sheet Mask
5. Toner
Toner helps balance the skin's pH levels, refine pores, and prepare the skin for better absorption of subsequent skincare products. Pat a small amount of toner onto the skin using your fingertips or a cotton pad. Product Recommendation: Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner
6. Essence
Essence is a lightweight, hydrating formula packed with active ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin, promoting cellular renewal and improving skin texture. Product Recommendation: Tocobo Bifida Biome Essence
7. Serum/Ampoule
Serums and ampoules are concentrated formulations tailored to address specific skincare concerns, such as brightening, anti-ageing, or acne treatment. Gently massage a few drops onto the skin until fully absorbed. Product Recommendation: Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
8. Eye Cream
The delicate skin around the eyes requires special care to combat signs of ageing, puffiness, and dark circles. Dab a pea-sized amount of eye cream around the eye area and gently pat until absorbed. Product Recommendation: Mixsoon Bean Eye Cream
9. Moisturiser/Night Cream
Lock in moisture and seal in the benefits of previous skin care steps with a moisturiser or night cream. Choose a formula suited to your skin type and concerns, whether a lightweight gel for oily skin or a rich cream for dry skin. Product Recommendation: Heimish Matcha Biome Intensive Probiotics Moisturising Cream
10. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in any skin care routine, helping protect the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause premature ageing, sunburn, and skin cancer. Apply a generous amount of sunscreen as the final step in your morning skin care routine. Product Recommendation: Tocobo Cotton Soft Sun Stick PA++++ SPF50+