Korean Skincare Routine: 10 Steps

The Korean skincare routine is not strictly defined by a set number of steps. It is often described as a 10-step routine, but this serves more as a general guideline rather than a rule.

Why Does the Korean Skincare Routine Have So Many Steps?

Koreans believe that healthy and radiant skin is not only a marker of beauty but also a reflection of a healthy lifestyle. This routine is more like a ritual, during which the skin receives significant attention and care. Each step has a specific function and helps to achieve different goals.

1. Double Cleansing

Double cleansing is especially important as it lays the foundation for the rest of the skincare routine. The process begins with an oil-based cleanser, which effectively removes makeup and oily impurities. This is particularly beneficial for those who wear waterproof makeup or sunscreen. It is followed by a water-based cleanser, which deeply cleanses the pores by removing remaining impurities and dead skin cells. Double cleansing ensures that the skin is thoroughly clean and ready to absorb subsequent products.

Oil-based cleansers: Purito Seoul From Green Cleansing Oil, Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Moisture Deep Cleansing Oil

Water-based cleansers: Cosrx Good Morning Gel Cleanser, Pyunkang Yul Low pH Pore Deep Cleansing Foam

2. Exfoliation (1–2 Times a Week)

This step removes dead skin cells, improves skin texture, and promotes cell renewal. Regular yet gentle exfoliation can help reduce clogged pores, improve skin tone, and smoothness.

Products: Cosrx AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid, Jigott Vita Solution 12 Calming Peeling Gel

3. Toner

Using a toner is essential for restoring the skin’s pH balance after cleansing. Toner also prepares the skin to better absorb the following products. It can offer additional hydration and calming benefits.

Products: Cosrx Centella Water Alcohol–Free Toner, Medi-Peel Retinol Collagen Lifting Toner, Some By Mi AHA, BHA, PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

4. Essence

Facial essence is a unique product in the Korean routine. Essences have a lightweight texture and provide the skin with hydration and nutrients. They often contain a high concentration of active ingredients and can help improve skin elasticity and radiance.

Products: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence, Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water, Medi-Peel Peptide 9 Aqua Essence Emulsion

5. Serum

Facial serum allows for targeted treatment of specific skin concerns. Serums contain a high concentration of active ingredients and can be used to reduce pigmentation, prevent wrinkles, or deeply hydrate the skin.

Products: Beauty of Joseon Calming Serum Green Tea + Panthenol, Isntree TW-Real Bifida Ampule, Fortheskin Radiance Vita Pro-Biome Cream Ampoule

6. Ampoule

Ampoules offer even more intensive, targeted care. Containing a very high concentration of active ingredients, they are often used over short periods to address specific skin issues.

Products: Fortheskin EGF-Peptide Pro-Biome Cream Ampoule

7. Face Mask (1–2 Times a Week)

Masks provide intensive care by deeply hydrating the skin and delivering additional nutrients.

Products: Dr. Althea Herb Therapy Velvet Mask, Dr. Althea Premium Intensive Essence Mask

8. Eye Cream

Eye cream is formulated for the delicate under-eye area. This area needs special care as the skin here is thinner and more sensitive. Eye creams help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.

Products: Mary&May Tranexamic Acid+Glutathione Eye Cream, Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal

9. Moisturizer

Using a moisturizer is a crucial step that ensures long-lasting hydration and protection. It forms a protective barrier that helps retain moisture and shields the skin from environmental stressors.

Products: Cosrx AC Collection Lightweight Soothing Moisturizer, Cosrx Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream, Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Aqua Gel Cream

10. Sunscreen (Daytime)

Using sunscreen during the day is critically important for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Sunscreen helps prevent premature aging, pigmentation, and damage caused by UV rays.

Products: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice Probiotics SPF50+/PA++++, Dr. Althea Cica Relief Sun Essence, Cosrx Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+/PA+++

The Korean skincare routine emphasizes hydration, strengthening the skin barrier, and gentle yet effective care. It’s important to remember that not every step is necessary for everyone—the routine should be customized to suit your skin type and individual needs.