True skin-care enthusiasts will tell you that the secret to achieving smooth, even-toned, dewy skin lies in a 10-step Korean skincare routine. A leader in beauty innovation, Korea continuously pushes the standard with new ingredients, formulas, and techniques. The K-beauty influence on the U.S. and Europe is not new, but recently, more consumers in Switzerland are turning to Korea for best-in-class tips and tricks. A 10-step Korean skincare routine emphasizes hydration and mild exfoliation, resulting in the coveted glass skin.
The steps themselves are pretty easy; there’s no need for using LED face masks every night to achieve results. They’re straightforward in the best way and can be easily incorporated into an existing routine if you trade a bit of your doom-scrolling time for some skin-appreciating time.
Remember that a 10-step skincare routine requires something money can’t buy—patience and consistency. After all, these products will only collect dust in your medicine cabinet if you don’t stick to using them daily. While ten steps may sound overwhelming, especially if you prefer to keep things minimal, you don’t have to do all ten steps every night. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you and your skin type.
The 10-Step Korean Skincare Essentials
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser
The first step in any 10-step Korean skincare routine is an oil-based cleanser. Oil-based impurities like excess sebum, makeup, and SPF are best removed with oil because like attracts like, a principle familiar to those who can remember their high school science class.
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser
Double-cleansing is essential in K-beauty routines. By following up with a water-based cleanser, you can properly remove water-based impurities like dirt, sweat, and grime. Opt for a low pH, sulfate-free, calming cleanser to give skin a gentle kickstart.
Step 3: Exfoliator
Depending on your skin type and exfoliator, this might be a daily or weekly step—make sure to read the instructions on the label. On the days you’re exfoliating, you should do so after cleansing to gently slough off dead skin cells for a smoother complexion.
Step 4: Toner
Korean toners are incredibly hydrating, and their main job is to focus on balancing the skin, including the skin’s pH level. They prepare your skin for better absorption of subsequent products.
Step 5: Essence
Essences are hydrating elixirs that can also deliver lightweight treatment benefits. They hydrate and enhance the skin’s cellular renewal process.
Step 6: Treatments (Serums and Ampoules)
Depending on the formula, the order might differ, but the general rule of thumb is light to heavy in texture to optimize absorbency. Choose a serum that either hydrates, brightens, firms, or calms to achieve luminous, smooth, clear skin.
Step 7: Sheet Mask (Evening)
Masks are an incredibly diverse and fun category in Korean skincare. They provide a concentrated dose of hydration and nutrients. Use them after toning and before applying essence or serum, and only on nights when you have extra time or want to treat yourself.
Step 8: Eye Cream
The eye area is sensitive and prone to milia, so always make sure to patch test. Choose an eye cream that suits your eye area and addresses specific concerns you’re targeting.
Step 9: Moisturizer
Moisturizer locks in moisture to keep the skin hydrated and supple. Korean skincare offers incredible textures and sensorial experiences, making this step particularly enjoyable.
Step 10: Sunscreen (Morning)
The final step in the mornings is SPF, rain or shine. Korean sunscreens are typically weightless, invisible, and feel more like a light moisturizer or soothing serum than the sunscreens we might be familiar with stateside.
Dividing the Routine Between Day and Night
Morning (Day) Routine
- Water-Based Cleanser: Cleanses away sweat and impurities from the night.
- Toner: Balances skin’s pH and preps the skin for better absorption of subsequent products.
- Essence: Hydrates and enhances the skin’s cellular renewal process.
- Serum/Ampoule: Targets specific skin concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation.
- Eye Cream: Moisturizes and protects the delicate skin around the eyes.
- Moisturizer: Locks in moisture to keep the skin hydrated and supple.
- Sunscreen: Protects the skin from harmful UV rays.
Evening (Night) Routine
- Oil-Based Cleanser: Removes makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities.
- Water-Based Cleanser: Cleanses away sweat, dirt, and water-based impurities.
- Exfoliator: Gently sloughs off dead skin cells for a smoother complexion (use 1-2 times a week).
- Toner: Balances skin’s pH and preps the skin for better absorption of subsequent products.
- Essence: Hydrates and enhances the skin’s cellular renewal process.
- Serum/Ampoule: Targets specific skin concerns like fine lines or hyperpigmentation.
- Sheet Mask: Provides a concentrated dose of hydration and nutrients (use 1-2 times a week).
- Eye Cream: Moisturizes and protects the delicate skin around the eyes.
- Moisturizer: Locks in moisture to keep the skin hydrated and supple.
Why is Korean Skincare So Good?
Korean skincare focuses on using highly hydrating ingredients that support skin barrier health. It's beneficial for all skin types, particularly sensitive skin, thanks to its gentle yet results-driven approach. Korean skincare is also part of an incredibly competitive industry, driven by the demands of Korean consumers who are among the most discerning globally when it comes to skincare.
"Korean patients are deeply informed and extraordinarily exacting when it comes to their skin goals," says Alicia Yoon, celebrity esthetician and founder of Peach & Lily. This demand is driven by a cultural perspective that skincare is not just cosmetic but a form of healthcare and self-care.
The Importance of Consistency and Patience
Remember that a 10-step skincare routine requires something money can’t buy—patience and consistency. After all, these products will only collect dust in your medicine cabinet if you don’t stick to using them daily. While ten steps may sound overwhelming, especially if you prefer to keep things minimal, you don’t have to do all ten steps every night. Feel free to experiment and find what works best for you and your skin type.
Shop the Routine at Kream
At Kream, we offer a curated selection of premium Korean skincare products to help you achieve your skin goals. From hydrating toners to nourishing essences and protective sunscreens, our products are designed to work together harmoniously, delivering the best results for your skin.
Embark on your journey to radiant, healthy skin with Kream's 10-step Korean skincare routine. Your skin will thank you!
