K-Beauty Routine
Korean skincare is all about hydration, nourishment, and achieving healthy, glowing skin through a layered approach. While not every step is required daily, following this routine can help you achieve a radiant, youthful complexion.
Oil Cleanser (First Cleanse)
Removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.
How to use: Massage onto dry skin, then rinse with warm water.
Best for: All skin types, especially those wearing makeup or SPF.
Recommended Product: Pure Grinding Cleansing Balm - Dr. Althea, Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm - Banila Co, 1025 Dokdo Cleansing Oil - ROUND LAB
Water-Based Cleanser (Second Cleanse)
Cleanses sweat, dirt, and any remaining impurities.
How to use: Apply to damp skin, lather, and rinse.
Best for: All skin types.
Recommended Product: COSRX - Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser, 1025 Dokdo Cleanser - ROUND LAB, Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam - Anua
Exfoliator (2–3 times a week)
Removes dead skin cells for a brighter, smoother complexion.
How to use: Gently massage onto damp skin and rinse.
Best for: Dull, rough, or acne-prone skin
Recommended Product: AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid - COSRX
Toner
Balances pH levels and preps skin for better absorption.
How to use: Pat onto clean skin with hands or a cotton pad.
Best for: Hydration, soothing, or brightening (based on ingredients).
Recommended Product: Madagascar Centella Quick Calming Pad - SKIN1004, 1025 Dokdo Toner - ROUND LAB, Madagascar Centella Toning Toner - SKIN1004
Essence
A lightweight treatment that deeply hydrates and promotes cell turnover.
How to use: Gently press into the skin with your palms.
Best for: All skin types, especially dry or aging skin.
Recommended Product: Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence - COSRX, Bean Essence – Mixsoon
Serum/Ampoule
Targets specific skin concerns like acne, pigmentation, or wrinkles.
How to use: Apply a few drops and pat in gently.
Best for: Personalized treatment based on skin needs.
Recommended Product: Dark Spot Correcting Glow Serum - Axis-Y, DIVE-IN Low Molecule Hyaluronic Acid Serum - Torriden, Peach 70 Niacin Serum - Anua
Sheet Mask (2–3 times a week)
Provides intense hydration and nourishment.
How to use: Apply for 10–20 minutes, then pat in excess serum.
Best for: All skin types, depending on the mask's ingredients.
Recommended Product: Cryo Rubber Soothing Mask - Dr. Jart+, Collagen Lifting Mask - medicube, Birch Juice Moisturizing Mask - ROUND LAB
Eye Cream
Reduces dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.
How to use: Dab gently around the eye area using your ring finger.
Best for: Anti-aging and hydration.
Recommended Product: Vegan Collagen Eye Serum – AXIS-Y
Moisturiser
Locks in hydration and protects the skin barrier.
How to use: Apply evenly over the face and neck.
Best for: All skin types (gel for oily skin, cream for dry skin).
Recommended Product: Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream - COSRX, 345 Relief Cream – Dr. ALTHEA, Hydro Wave Deep Sea Cream - Purito SEOUL
Sunscreen (AM Only)
Shields skin from UV damage and prevents premature aging.
How to use: Apply generously as the last step in your morning routine.
Best for: Everyone, regardless of skin type!
Recommended Product: Birch Juice Moisturising Sunscreen SPF50+ Broad Spectrum – Round Lab, Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ Broad Spectrum – Beauty Of Joseon, Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel SPF50+ PA++++ - Isntree