Writer and expert6 years ago

Korean Skincare

Korean skincare, also known as K-beauty, is more than just skincare; it’s a transformative journey towards healthier, glowing skin. If you’re looking for a skincare routine that offers a deeper connection, K-beauty is your passport to that radiant destination!

What is Korean skincare?

With its holistic approach, this 10-step routine is all about the long-term strategy to achieving that milky, glazed doughnut-type glow.

Why is Korean skincare so good?

Korean skincare differs from your bog standard skincare routine; it’s all about prevention and maintenance. In the world of K-beauty, your skin’s future is as bright as your complexion.

Best Korean skincare routine

The trick to the best Korean skincare routine is understanding where our usual day-to-day beauty products slot in. By using them at the right time, you could supercharge your existing skincare routine for a glowing, youthful complexion.

Cleanser

In the grand symphony of skincare, cleansers may not take centre stage, but they’re certainly the unsung heroes. As the first step in the Korean skincare routine, cleansers are core to maintaining the health and vitality of the skin. In this all-important ritual, the commitment to pristine skin comes in the form of not one, but two cleansers — a balancing act of an oil-based and water-based cleanser.

Oil-based cleanser

For oil-based cleansers, why not try the Dermalogica Daily Skin Health Precleanse Cleansing Oil? Made with nourishing olive, apricot and kukui nut oils, is perfect for all skin types and a pro at melting away make-up (even waterproof), suncreams and oil on the skin.

Water-based cleanser

If you’re after a water-based cleanser, the Philosophy Purity Made Simple Pore Purifying Foam Cleanser is a great place to start. Not only does it wash away impurities and unclog pores, but it also provides a soothing and nurturing sensation to the skin — what’s not to love?

Exfoliator

Worked into the nighttime routine after cleansing, a twice-weekly exfoliation is said to brighten skin, encouraging the absorption of products into the skin more easily. If you’re new to exfoliating, it’s always best to start with a gentle one, such as the NUXE Aquabella Micro-Exfoliating Purifying Gel. This ultra-gentle formula is sure to leave your skin feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Toner

As you approach this step, your skin’s pH may be slightly off-kilter and in need of some TLC to get it back to its natural, acidic state. Enter… toners! Born to balance pH levels and allow moisturising products to absorb easily into the skin, toners are used both morning and night. The Clarins Cleansers & Toners Hydrating Toning Lotion effectively counteracts bacteria and prevents blackheads, pimples and impurities. Or indulge in the immediate soothing sensation of the Nuxe Very Rose Refreshing Toning Mist for an instant pick-me-up.

Essence vs Serum

It’s easiest to think of an essence as somewhere between a toner and a serum. In essence (pun intended), they include the hydrating, lightweight qualities of a toner, but with the targeted benefits of a serum. A serum manages more specific skin concerns, including wrinkles, acne, and dry skin, and slows down the ageing process. Feeling fatigued? Consider giving the Caudalie Face Vinoperfect Concentrated Brightening Glycolic Essence and let your skin recharge with newfound energy.

Treatments

As treatments are hyperfocused on specific skincare concerns, treatments are a flexible addition to your skincare routine. If you’re hyperfocused on a specific skin concern, you might consider adding the treatment step.

Sheet mask

Part of the nighttime regime only, sheet masks feature big on the list for faithful followers of the Korean way. These IMAGE Skincare Hydrating Hydrogel Sheet Masks are serum-soaked papers that are a prominent addition, as they’re sure to deliver a much-needed moisture boost to rejuvenate your skin whilst you sleep.

Eye cream

Don't forget to add a good eye cream to your skincare lineup if you're serious about reaping the benefits of this routine. We’re all aware of the delicacy of the eye area, which is why it’s so important to get this step right. The Decléor Plum Eye Cream uses plum seed extract to lift and firm the eye contour, set to boost the skin’s radiance.

Moisturiser

The magic of moisturising should never be underestimated - this crucial step locks in all the goodness and seals the skin, making sure you’re absorbing all the benefits of previous ingredients in the routine. For particularly dry skin, try the Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Refining Moisture Cream Complex.

SPF

If you aren’t finishing your Korean skincare steps with an SPF, you might as well scrap all the previous steps. The icing on the cake, this step is vital to completing the finished routine. The Dermalogica SPF Protection 50 Sport has been designed with lifestyle in mind. Its water-resistant, lightweight and non-greasy formula simply slots into your everyday life — easy and effective.