A 10-Step Guide to Korean Skincare
South Korea shows us how it’s done.
by ESTHER KIM ★ NOVEMBER 8, 2020
Korean skincare products have been dominating the beauty industry around the world, and for good reason, too. While products curated in Western culture typically target the outward appearance, Korean beauty focuses on the foundation of your skin and nourishment through layering hydration and protection from pollution, UV rays, etc. As someone who grew up in a Korean household, I’ve been taught to use the Korean beauty industry’s holy grail 10-step skincare regimen, so I’m here to help you start your skincare journey and share with you this life-changing routine!
The 10-step Korean skincare routine includes oil-based cleanser, water-based cleanser, exfoliator, toner, essence, serums/ampoule, face mask, eye cream, moisturizing cream, and sunscreen (a mouthful, I know)! It can be a little time consuming when you’re in a rush, but I like to set aside 15-20 minutes in the morning just for my skincare routine. If someone like me—who hates early mornings and sleeps through 20 alarms—can get this routine down, I am certain that you will be able to as well. We at UGirl are here to inspire you and give your old skincare routine a makeover! Your skin will thank you later…
Oil-based cleansers: Oil-based cleansers are here to erase oil-based impurities such as makeup, sunscreen, sebum, etc. Melt the product into your hands (make sure they’re clean beforehand!) and gently rub it around your face. If you have any eye makeup on, really focus on cleansing that area as this product is the most effective for getting rid of stubborn makeup like mascara and eyeliner. After, cleanse your face with cold water until all the product is gone and pat dry with a clean towel (Do not rub the towel on your face! Treat your skin like a fragile egg, don’t tug on it.)
Water-based cleaners: This product will erase the remaining residue left on your skin. Gently rub the cleanser all over your face and cleanse with cold water. If you want to be fancier, you could use a facial brush, but there’s nothing wrong with using your hands.
Exfoliation: You have to be wary of exfoliators because a lot of them can cause micro-tears in your skin causing it to be more dry, flaky, and red (*cough St. Ive’s Apricot Scrub cough*). Apply the exfoliant all over your face with luke-warm water gently.
Toner: This product is intended to balance the pH level in your skin and hydrate it. I would suggest soaking the product in a cotton pad and let it sink into your face for about 10 seconds and then pat it in. Make sure you pat gently!
Essence: This product is used to flood your skin with hydration and help it absorb all of the products already on your face. Again, you can use the product with a cotton pad and pat it into your skin, but I like to use the palm of my hands and gently pat it in.
Serums & Ampoules: You can use either one! Serums are usually used more to target dark spots, wrinkles, or any dullness you have on your face. On the other hand, think of ampoules as energy-boosting shots for your skin! They’re beneficial if you want to see fast results before a big event. Usually, ampoules have a syringe-like applicant that will help you apply the product to your face.
Sheet masks: This product is also used to hydrate your skin and to help it soak in the beneficial ingredients you already used. Spread the mask all over your face and leave it on for about 10-15 minutes. Your sheet mask should be a little damp once you take it off, not completely dried out. A little life hack I picked up along the way is to put your mask in the fridge. The coldness can help depuff your face in the morning.
Eye cream: This targets your under-eye area—one of the most delicate parts of your face. Because the skin around your eyes is so fragile, these products will help prevent dryness and wrinkles! Make sure to be extra gentle when you apply this to your under-eye and eyelids. There is a method where you lightly pat your product into your eyes like you’re playing the piano.
Moisturizer: Moisturizing is one of the last steps because it creates a thin layer that locks in everything you put on your face beforehand.
Sunscreen: The most important product of all! In the morning it is crucial to wear sunscreen and reapply every few hours. This protects your skin from UV rays and other harmful environmental factors.
The rule of thumb in this method is that if you’re spending around thirty minutes doing your makeup, you should also spend the same amount of time removing it. This method may be a hassle and a bit on the pricey side, however, you should treat it as an investment on your skin! If you have the means, it will definitely pay off in the long run and you won't regret it.
If you need of more information or products, here are some links that will help every skin type:
Cover photo credit: theeverygirl.com