💡Think of Skincare Like Getting Dressed

Just like you wouldn’t throw on a coat without your clothes underneath, your skincare routine works best in layers.

• Cleanser = the fresh start

• Toner = your underlayers

• Essence & serum = your power pieces

• Moisturizer = your cozy jacket

• SPF = your protective armor

Each step builds on the next—keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and ready to face the world (or your bed).

📚 Table of Contents

1. How Many Steps Are in the Korean Skincare Routine?
   

2. Do You Need All 10 Steps?

3. Final Thoughts

4. FAQ: Korean Skincare Routine Basics
   

✨ So… How Many Steps Are We Talking?

The Korean skincare routine is best known for its 10 steps, but that doesn’t mean you need to follow all of them every single day. Think of it like your personal skincare menu you can adjust based on what your skin is craving.

Let’s break down what each step actually does:

1. Oil Cleanser – Melt Away Makeup & SPF

Oil cleansers dissolve sunscreen, excess sebum, and makeup gently; without stripping your skin.

💧 Why it matters: It’s the first step of double cleansing, clearing the way for the rest of your routine.

🛍 Try: IUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil

2. Water-Based Cleanser – Wash Off What’s Left

A second cleanse removes water-based debris like sweat and dirt for a truly clean slate.

🛍 Try: HaruHaru Wonder Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel

3. Exfoliator – Polish & Smooth (1–2x a week)

Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, helps prevent clogged pores, and boosts glow.

💡 Tip: Choose gentle exfoliants to avoid irritation.

4. Toner – Rebalance & Refresh

Toners in K-beauty are hydrating and soothing. Not harsh or alcohol-heavy like Western versions.

💧 Why it matters: Helps restore pH and prep your skin for what’s next.

5. Essence – The Heart of K-Beauty

Essences are lightweight, super-hydrating liquids that enhance your skin’s texture and radiance.

🛍 Try: Mixsoon Bean Essence. Packed with fermented goodness for smoother, calmer skin.

6. Serum / Ampoule – Targeted Treatment

This step goes deep. Serums and ampoules target specific concerns like acne, dark spots, or dehydration.

🛍 Try: HaruHaru Wonder Centella 4% TXA Dark Spot Go Away Serum

7. Sheet Mask – A Moisture Boost (2–3x a week)

A juicy sheet mask drenches your skin with serum and feels like an instant spa moment.

💡 Tip: Use during a chill moment. Think Netflix and glow time.

8. Eye Cream – Gentle TLC for Your Eyes

Helps reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines in this delicate area.

9. Moisturizer – Seal It All In

Your moisture-locking barrier. Keeps all previous steps from evaporating.

🛍 Try: Axis-Y Cera-Heart My Type Duo Cream.

10. Sunscreen (AM) – Your Daily Armor

Sunscreen is essential—even on cloudy days. It protects against UV damage, early aging, and hyperpigmentation.

🛍 Try: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum

💡Tip: At night? Swap SPF for a nourishing sleeping mask.

💭 Do You Really Need All 10 Steps?

Nope! You can totally customize your routine.

Start with these 5:

• Cleanser

• Toner

• Essence or Serum

• Moisturizer

• SPF

Add in the other steps as you learn more about your skin’s needs.

💖 Take It Slow & Enjoy the Process

Skincare isn’t a race, it’s a ritual. The Korean skincare routine is about giving your skin consistent care and attention, not just chasing trends. Whether you do 10 steps or 3, what matters most is how your skin feels and how you feel in your skin.

❓FAQ: Korean Skincare Routine Basics

Q: Do I really need to follow all 10 steps every day?

Nope! Start with the basics: cleanser, toner, serum or essence, moisturizer, and SPF. Think of the rest as optional add-ons depending on your skin’s needs.

Q: What’s the difference between essence and serum?

Essences are lighter and more hydrating; serums are more concentrated and target specific concerns. You can use both or choose one based on what your skin needs most.

Q: What order should I apply my products?

A good rule of thumb: go from thinnest to thickest texture. Start with toner, then essence, serum, moisturizer, and finish with SPF in the morning or sleeping mask at night.

Q: Can I skip a step if I’m in a rush?

Absolutely. K-beauty is flexible. Skincare should fit your life, not the other way around.

✨ Ready to build your dream skincare routine? Explore our handpicked K-beauty faves and start your glow journey today!