So, you’ve been looking into the 10-Step korean skin care routine and have been deliberating whether you should give it a try or not. It’s been quite the booming trend, and you want to know if you can hop on the bandwagon – but not just so you can be “IN” – you actually want to experience the benefits of having this type of rigorous skin care regimen.
You’ve probably read various articles on this already, but I believe you’re here because you want to know more (perhaps you’re not completely sold on it yet) – so let’s take a moment to review the key info on this tedious but famous skin care trend:
The 10-step Korean Skin care Routine recently gained popularity because of its amazing benefits – which in essence, are really thorough cleansing, dealing with current skin issues, and preventing them from coming back.
This comprehensive skin care routine is popular because of what does. It is long and thorough because of what it aims to achieve – which is prevent any skin issues from coming back or prevent them before they even begin. And it makes perfect sense.
Of course, as women of color, we have our concerns. Obviously, our skin is different from that of a Korean woman (or man, yes Korean men also do this multi-step routine).
The good news is, Korean skincare is not about skin color but about skin type. And even with its number of highly recommended steps, it is customizable depending on what works for you.
Let’s run through the 10 steps, or as I would like to call it,
THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF A KOREAN SKIN CARE ROUTINE
1. CLEANSE WITH OIL
Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil
Oil cleansing is a key step in this routine whether or not you have makeup on. Using an oil-based cleanser removes grime and pollutants from the skin that accumulated throughout the day. If you do have makeup on, you may use a makeup remover prior to oil cleansing to ensure no residual makeup will be left behind – although, essentially, this is what oil cleansing is for.
2. CLEANSE AGAIN
NEOGEN Green Tea Real Fresh Foam Cleanser
This is what they call “Double Cleansing” – using a water-based cleanser (a.k.a foam cleansers) after oil cleansing ensures that any dirt or oils left behind on the face (if any at all) is completely removed. Doing a double cleanse keeps breakouts at bay and paves the way for a clearer complexion.
3. EXFOLIATE
Skinfood Rice Mask Wash Off / NEOGEN Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Green Tea
Exfoliating helps rid the face of dead skin which helps improve skin texture over time. There are a few ways to exfoliate, but the Korean way is usually to use exfoliating wash off masks or exfoliating pads. This way, it is gentler and more nourishing.
4. TONE
Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner
We are not new to toners, but it is a step we sometimes take for granted. Toning the skin is very important as it balances the skin’s pH levels. Doing this also preps the skin for the next step.
5. USE ESSENCE
Essence is basically a hybrid between a toner and a serum. Its primary goal is to hydrate the skin and treat it with beneficial skin care ingredients. It may seem extra, but it is “essential” in giving the skin the TLC it needs. (lol, bad pun)
6. USE SERUM
Missha Time Revolution Night Repair New Science Activator Ampoule
Serums (or Ampoule treatments) are not new either, but not everybody uses them. Doing this step targets skin issues more specifically – repairing or preventing them while nourishing the skin with potent powerhouse ingredients.
7. SHEET MASK
Missha Super Aqua Cell Renew Snail Hydro Gel Mask
When it comes to sheet masks, the choices and possibilities are endless. Packed with some more essence/serum, this step is like the deep conditioner of the Korean Skin care Routine.
8. TAKE CARE OF EYES TOO
Missha Misa Cho Bo Yang Eye Cream
Using eye cream is another step we tend to skip until bags, dark circles, and lines start to appear. The skin around our eyes is the thinnest and most delicate, so giving it the TLC it needs is an absolute must.
9. LOCK IT ALL IN
COSRX Honey Ceramide Full Moisture Cream / Goodal Anti-Wrinkle Sleep Cream Pack
Face creams (or sleeping packs) – the last step! Well, almost. Koreans are big on moisturizing and hydration. Not only does this help retain the skin’s moisture levels throughout the night, doing this step locks in everything you just put on your face and ensures that you get every bit of benefit from each product.
10. NOT FORGET SPF
Missha Mild Essence Sun Milk SPF 50/PA+++
SPF, the MOST important step. The sun is literally the biggest source of aging. You want to protect your skin at all costs, especially after doing all the steps mentioned above. Korean Sunscreens are great because they are lightweight, and they leave no white cast. A lot of them even incorporate skin care benefits such as hydration, antioxidants, and many more.
As you can see, this routine is all about giving the skin all the tender love and care in the world and treating it like it’s the most precious thing you own – which it kind of is.
You don’t have to follow every step to a T – you don’t even have to use Korean products. Use products that already work for you. Then customize and adapt.
Just remember, the beautiful and perfect skin doesn’t come overnight. Skin care takes investment – not just of money but also of time. Because beauty takes time.
Give it a shot, and you’ll see that it’s totally worth it.
If you have tried it, how did it work for you? I wanna know!