The 10-Step Korean skincare routine sounds like a chore, but once you understand it, the process doesn’t seem intimidating. Those who follow the regime are rewarded with clear skin, also known as the legendary Korean ‘glass skin’. The 10 steps are said to be able to clear away many existing skin problems too.
If you’re keen to try the routine out for yourself, we break down the steps below to help you understand why it’s necessary to have all 10 steps:
1. Oil cleanser
Part of the Korean skincare routine is to double cleanse by washing your face twice. The first step is to use an oil cleanser and massage it all over the face. Oil cleansers help remove makeup and draw out oil-based impurities such as sebum, sunscreen and pollutants. Once it’s massaged all over the face, rinse it off with warm water. This should be practiced for morning and night.
2. Facial cleanser
The second step is to clean the face one more time using a facial cleanser of your choice. It could be a gel, foam or water-based cleanser. These cleansers help remove other impurities that haven’t been picked up by the oil cleanser, such as sweat and dirt. Repeat this step day and night too.
3. Exfoliator
Exfoliators should be used twice a week, and not daily. This is because exfoliation can cause skin irritation. Both physical and chemical exfoliation helps to slough away dead and rough skin. The smooth skin below will then be able to absorb any subsequent moisturising products better. Exfoliators should be concentrated on areas such as the nose and the visible pores of the cheeks. For best results, look for exfoliators containing salicylic acid or lactic acid. If you can’t find a good cleanser with those ingredients, you can look for them in toners.
4. Toner
While most would advise to skip the toner, it’s an important part of the 10-step Korean skincare. Toners help to remove residue from cleansers, and help prep the skin to absorb moisturisers better. Applying the toner also helps balance the pH value of the facial skin after all that washing.
5. Essence
Koreans believe that layering products is a way to achieve glass skin that they so famously flaunt. Layering also helps the skin hold moisture better and it’s especially useful if you live in drier climates. Think of essence as a lightweight moisturiser that is packed with a concentrated blend of hydrating and anti-aging ingredients. An essence acts as a second layer of hydration after toning and penetrates deeper into the skin.
6. Ampoule/ serum
An ampoule or a serum works similarly so you just need to use either one for step 6. Ampoules or serums are packed with powerful ingredients to help target problem areas such as fine lines, acne and hyperpigmentation. Gently tap the ampoule or serum into your skin and you’re good to go.
7. Sheet mask
The ‘soul’ of Korean skincare, sheet masking helps to infuse the skin with concentrated serums or essences. Sometimes, these face masks are soaked in active ingredients to target problem areas such as acne and hyperpigmentation too. Sheet masks should not be worn for longer than 15 minutes or it will start to dry the skin out. Massage your face after the mask is removed to let the ingredients absorb faster.
8. Eye cream
Our undereyes need some TLC too. The skin here is the thinnest and the most delicate, so remember to moisturise this area day and night. Eye creams can help combat dark circles, crow’s feet and puffiness. Tap the cream onto the undereye using the ring finger to exert just a nice level of pressure. Never rub or drag the skin on the undereye area.
9. Moisturiser
The final layer of moisture for the skin comes from the moisturiser. It comes in many forms such as lotion, gel, cream, emulsion and sleeping mask. Moisturisers help to smooth fine lines and plump up the skin. Most importantly, it helps to seal in all of the moisture you’ve worked hard to apply on your face.
10. Sunscreen
Many have laughed off the sunscreen but it’s one of the most important skincare products. Sunscreen should be worn even if you’re indoors. Putting on sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent premature aging, skin cancer, freckles and hyperpigmentation. Sunscreens work by block harmful UV rays from damaging the skin. Effective sunscreens feature titanium dioxide and zinc oxide high on the ingredient list. These two ingredients block both UVA and UVB rays effectively.
Here’s an image to help remember all of the steps:
