10-Steps Beginner’s Guide
Korean skincare is a phenomenon that has taken the beauty world by storm. The 10-step Korean skincare routine is a highly popular and effective method of achieving flawless, glowing skin. This routine is a combination of different skincare practices, such as double cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protecting the skin from UV rays. If you’re new to Korean skincare, you might find the 10-step routine intimidating. But don’t worry, this beginner’s guide will help you understand the steps and how to incorporate them into your daily skincare routine.
Step 1: Oil-based Cleanser
The first step in the Korean skincare routine is to remove makeup and oil-based impurities. An oil-based cleanser helps to dissolve oil, sunscreen, and makeup. Apply the oil-based cleanser to your dry face and massage it into your skin for 1-2 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water. Our Pick: SkinCeuticals Gentle Cleanser.
Step 2: Water-based Cleanser
After removing oil-based impurities, the next step is to use a water-based cleanser. This step helps to remove sweat and dirt that may have accumulated on your skin throughout the day. It is essential to choose a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser to avoid stripping your skin of its natural oils. Our Pick: SkinMedica Facial Cleanser.
Step 3: Exfoliate
Exfoliation is the process of removing dead skin cells from the surface of your skin. This step helps to reveal brighter, smoother, and healthier-looking skin. However, over-exfoliation can damage your skin, so it’s essential to limit this step to once or twice a week. Our Pick: 100% Pure Matcha Oat Face Scrub.
Step 4: Toner
Toners are designed to restore the pH balance of your skin after cleansing. This step helps to prepare your skin for the next steps in the routine. Toners also help to hydrate your skin and can be used to target specific skin concerns such as acne, fine lines, or hyperpigmentation. Our Pick: PCA SKIN Hydrating Toner.
Step 5: Essence
Essences are lightweight, watery formulas that help to hydrate, brighten, and firm the skin. These products penetrate deep into the skin and help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Our Pick: Sunday Riley Pink Drink Firming Resurfacing Essence.
Step 6: Serum
Serums are highly concentrated formulas that target specific skin concerns. For example, if you have acne-prone skin, you can choose a serum with salicylic acid to help unclog pores. Serums can be expensive, but they are worth the investment as they deliver noticeable results. Our Pick: PCA SKIN Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum.
Step 7: Sheet Mask
Sheet masks are a popular Korean skincare product that provides intense hydration and nourishment to the skin. Sheet masks are soaked in a serum or essence and are designed to be left on the skin for 10-20 minutes. Our Pick: 100% Pure Does It All Sheet Mask.
Step 8: Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is delicate and prone to dryness and fine lines. Eye creams are specially formulated to hydrate and nourish this delicate area. When applying eye cream, use your ring finger as it exerts the least amount of pressure. Our Pick: 100% Pure Coffee Bean Caffeine Eye Cream.
Step 9: Moisturizer
Moisturizer helps to hydrate and protect your skin from environmental damage. It is essential to choose a moisturizer that is suitable for your skin type. If you have oily skin, choose a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. If you have dry skin, choose a richer, more emollient moisturizer. Our Pick: EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer.
Step 10: Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a vital step in any skincare routine. Exposure to the sun’s UV rays can cause premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. It’s essential to apply sunscreen even on cloudy days as UV rays can penetrate through clouds. Our Pick: UNSUN Mineral Tinted Sunscreen.
Incorporating the 10-step Korean skincare routine into your daily routine can be time-consuming, but it’s worth it. You don’t have to follow all the steps every day, but it’s essential to cleanse, tone, moisturize, and protect your skin from the sun every day. By following this routine, you’ll achieve a glowing, healthy complexion that’s the envy of all your friends. So go ahead and give it a try!