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korean skincare routine by glixxy

10-Step Korean Skincare Routine

by Saqlain malik in News

Are you curious to know the secret behind the radiant, glowing, and youthful Korean skin? If you’ve ever been fascinated by and dreamed of achieving the same glow as Korean celebrities and influencers, stop here to know about their 10-step Korean skincare method. A cultural tradition, the Korean skincare routine, has now gained global recognition for ensuring long-term skin health and prevention. It focuses on gentle layering, deep hydration, and targeting specific skin concerns rather than being a one-size-fits-all approach.

Keep reading and exploring more about the Korean 10 Step Routine, as well as the right Korean skincare routine order necessary to support your skin every day. 

In this blog, we will learn about:

  • How the Korean skincare routine works for long-term skin health
  • The 10-step Korean skin care order, along with recommended products, their ingredients, and application tips
  • Build a Korean skincare routine at home (from basics to full glass skin routine)

Why the Korean 10 Step Routine Works

models with glass skin care

The Korean skincare routine is meticulously designed to provide deep cleansing and hydration along with long-term results and prevention. The step by step Korean skincare routine focuses on a purpose, including cleansing makeup impurities, nourishing the skin barrier, and delivering lasting moisturization.

Korean Beauty mainly serves:

  • Layered lightweight hydration to the skin.
  • High-performance active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and snail mucin.
  • Focus daily SPF to protect against sun damage.

This approach ensures luminous, smooth skin with refined texture, also known as the Korean glass skin routine.

Step-by-Step Korean Skincare Routine Order

The Korean skincare routine emphasizes skin cleansing, preparation, nourishment, and protection. The following is the correct Korean skincare routine order that serves all these purposes: 

The Korean skincare routine order is:

  1. Oil-based cleanser
  2. Water-based cleanser
  3. Exfoliation (2–3 times/week)
  4. Toner
  5. Essence
  6. Serum or ampoule
  7. Sheet mask (2–3 times a week)
  8. Eye cream
  9. Moisturizer
  10. Sunscreen (AM only)

Cleanse the skin:

Cleansing involves removing makeup buildup, dirt, dust, and other impurities from skin while leaving it nourished and plump. Here are the steps involved to wipe away these buildups:

1. Oil-Based Cleanser

Start your Korean skincare routine with double cleansing to get clean and clear skin. A makeup remover & oil cleanser, when applied and gently massaged on dry skin, effectively removes sunscreen, makeup, and oil-based debris without stripping the skin barrier.

What it does
  • Breaks down and dissolves oil-based impurities such as SPF and makeup
HOW TO USE
  • Apply it morning and night. Gently massage into dry skin. Add lukewarm water to emulsify, then wash off.
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Jojoba oil, Sea buckthorn Oil, Grape seed oil

2. Water-Based Cleanser

Now, apply a water-based cleanser, the second step of double cleansing. Dermatologists recommend double cleansing because it dissolves impurities that can cause breakouts. This cleanser removes water-based impurities like dirt, sweat, and leftover residue that oil cleansers didn’t pick up. Take a fresh start by deeply and completely cleansing the skin.

What it does
  • Wash away water-based impurities such as dirt and sweat 
How to use
  • Apply it Morning and night to your damp face and neck. Gently massage in a circular motion, then wash off with tap water
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Glycerin, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Centella

Do You Know?

You don’t always need two separate cleansers. Our Biphasic Makeup Remover combines the power of an oil-based and water-based cleanser, simplifying the cleansing process. It dissolves makeup, impurities, and residue while keeping your skin barrier hydrated.


3. Exfoliation 

Physical and chemical exfoliants clear away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and provide smoother, brighter skin texture. A gentle chemical exfoliant (like AHAs or BHAs) is generally safe for oily or acne-prone skin types. Regular exfoliation helps products absorb easily into your skin, improving the effectiveness of your skincare routine. 

What it does
  • Removes dead skin cells and cleans debris from pores
How to use 
  • Gently exfoliate skin 1–2 times/week. Apply while focusing on your nose and the visible pores on your cheeks
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Salicylic acid, Glycolic acid, Lactic acid

Skin Preparation:

The following step helps prepare your skin for the products applied later:

4. Toner

Korean toners are designed to focus on skin hydration and preparation. Toners remove residue from cleansing while supporting the skin’s barrier for better absorption of the products applied in the next steps. Our skin is a sponge; much easier to moisturize when slightly damp instead of when tight and dry. Avoid harsh toners that can strip away the skin’s moisture. 

What it does
  • Balances skin’s pH levels and moisture 
How to use
  • Pat toner gently into your skin using your hands, or use a cotton pad to swipe it all across your face 
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Rice extract, Hyaluronic Acid, Licorice Root Extract

Nourishment:

Skin nourishment is as important as the heart is for life. Follow these steps to deeply nourish your skin, resulting in plump, glowing skin: 

5. Essence

The core of the Korean skin regimen, essences are lightweight but potent. These are enriched with slow-aging, hydrating, and skin-replenishing ingredients, helping your skin brighten, smooth, and prepare for what's ahead. 

What it does
  • Deeply hydrates and helps in cell turnover
How to use
  • Sprinkle into hands and lightly pat into face and neck
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Centella, Mugwort, Snail Mucin, Bifida Ferment

6. Serums / Treatments

This step targets specific skin concerns such as dark spots, acne-prone skin, fine lines, or dark circles. Skin perfectors like boosters, serums, and ampoules are the ultimate solution to these concerns. They are usually packed with powerhouse ingredients, including Vitamin C, niacinamide, and snail mucin.

What it does
  • Directly treat problem areas like hyperpigmentation and dark circles 
How to use
  • Gently apply to the skin, focusing on the affected areas with specific skin concerns
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Retinol, PDRN

7. Sheet Masks 

Sheet masks are the soul of the Korean skincare routine. They provide a concentrated dose of active ingredients formulated to brighten, hydrate, firm, or calm the skin. Soaked in serums, they deliver exactly what your skin needs the most. Give your skin an effortless spa-like Korean face treatment and an instant boost at home, while living a moment of self-care.  

What it does
  • Enriches your skin with concentrated essence
How to use
  • Apply 2-3 times/week and smooth onto clean skin. Lie back and relax for 15–20 minutes, then pat in excess essence

LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 

  • Collagen, Madecassoside, Tea Tree Extract

8. Eye Cream

The skin around the eyes is the most delicate area that needs extra care. It is more prone to puffiness, dryness, dark circles, and fine lines. A well-formulated eye cream addresses these concerns with active ingredients while being non-irritating and gentle for regular use.

What it does
  • Moisturizes and prevents puffiness, dark circles, and crow’s feet
How to use
  • Apply with your little finger to gently tap (never rub!) around the entire orbital bone, avoiding the water line

LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 

  • Bakuchiol, Vitamin C, Peptides, Caffeine

Skin Protection:

The final steps are all about enabling skin to survive by protecting it against environmental stressors like pollution and sun damage. Let's have a look at how important they are:

9. Moisturizer

A moisturizer, whether it's a rich cream or a lightweight gel, helps revive your skin’s moisture level, strengthens skin barrier function, and seals in the products applied earlier. They help soften fine lines, smooth texture, provide lasting hydration, and keep skin healthy and balanced around the clock. Pick a rich cream for dry skin or a lightweight gel for oily skin. 

What it does
  • Locks in moisture to smooth and plump skin
How to use
  • Apply morning and night every day. Pat into your face and neck
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Panthenol, Squalane, Ceramides

10. Sunscreen 

Include sunscreen in your AM routine to follow the full Korean skincare routine. Daily SPF is the most effective way to protect skin from UV damage, premature aging, and pigmentation. Always apply it at the last step of all products to create a protective barrier. It also helps to seal in all the benefits of your skincare.

What it does
  • Protects the skin from UV rays damage
How to use 
  • Apply 2-3 fingers’ worth of sunscreen onto your face and neck at the end of your morning routine. Reapply every two hours throughout the day for complete sun protection.
LOOK FOR INGREDIENTS 
  • Birch sap, centella, hyaluronic acid

Do you know?

The Korean 10-step routine can be simplified to just cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. This skincare routine helps you layer the right formulas in the right order. Consistency is key if you want to see visible results. 

How to Build a Korean Skincare Routine at Home

 

Do you need all 10 steps of Korean skincare? If you’re a beginner and wondering about all 10 steps, you may get frightened. So, start with a simple Korean skincare routine:

  1. Cleanser
  2. Toner
  3. Moisturizer
  4. Sunscreen

The Korean beauty routine is completely flexible. You can adjust it for your lifestyle. Slowly add sheet masks, serums, and essences based on your skin concerns and skin type. 

FAQs 

What is the correct Korean skincare routine order?

Oil cleanser → Water cleanser → Exfoliation → Toner → Essence → Serum → Sheet Mask → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → Sunscreen.

Do you need all 10 steps of Korean skincare?

Not always. Start with simple routine and add steps depending on your skin type and concern.

Is the Korean 10 step routine good for dry/oily skin?

Absolutely. Customize your skincare routine with rich creams for dry skin or lightweight gels for oily skin.

How often should you follow the 10 step Korean skincare routine?

Regular for cleansing, moisturizing, and SPF. Exfoliation and masks 2–3 times per week.

What is the difference between the glass skin routine and the Korean 10 step routine?

If the Korean 10-step routine is consistently followed, it results in glass skin, poreless, smooth, and radiant skin.

Final Thoughts

The 10 step Korean skin care is not about applying more products. It's all about layering the skincare products to deeply hydrate, cleanse, protect the skin barrier, and address concerns effectively. Be consistent while following the Korean 10-step routine to achieve long-lasting results. 

If you want to build your Korean skincare routine, start with the basics and enjoy healthy, glowing skin!

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Allow 15-20 minutes between BHA application and other products in the morning to ensure proper absorption. This timing prevents interference between products and allows the BHA to properly penetrate before applying sunscreen. Method 2: Alternating Days Use BHA on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and benzoyl peroxide on Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, with Sunday as a rest day featuring only gentle cleansing and moisturizing. This schedule provides consistent treatment while allowing recovery time. This is the best approach for sensitive skin or those new to active ingredients, as it prevents over-exposure while building tolerance gradually. Many users find this method allows them to use higher concentrations without irritation. Gradually increase frequency as skin builds tolerance over 4-6 weeks. Some users can eventually progress to the alternating times method, while others find alternating days provides optimal results long-term. During rest days, focus on supporting your skin barrier with gentle, hydrating products that contain ingredients like aloe vera, niacinamide, or panthenol to soothe and repair any minor irritation. Method 3: Targeted Spot Treatment Apply BHA to areas with blackheads, whiteheads, and rough texture, typically the T-zone, chin, and other areas where pores tend to clog. This targeted approach allows you to address specific concerns without treating your entire face. Use benzoyl peroxide only on active breakouts and inflamed pimples, applying a thin layer directly to affected areas. This precision application minimizes overall skin exposure while delivering concentrated treatment where needed most. This method minimizes overall skin exposure to both ingredients simultaneously, making it ideal for those with combination skin or localized acne issues. It’s also useful for those who experience sensitivity with full-face application. 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Pre-existing conditions like eczema, rosacea, or perioral dermatitis can be exacerbated by these active ingredients. Warning signs that indicate you should stop using the combination include burning sensations, widespread redness that persists beyond a few hours after application, or peeling that doesn’t resolve within a few days. These symptoms suggest your skin barrier is becoming damaged. If you experience any adverse reactions, immediately discontinue use and focus on gentle, hydrating products until your skin recovers. Pushing through irritation rarely leads to better results and often prolongs the healing process. Following is an AI image. Essential Precautions When Mixing BHA and Benzoyl Peroxide Before starting any routine with these active ingredients, proper preparation and precautions are essential for safe and effective results. These steps can prevent many of the common problems users experience when combining potent ingredients. The importance of patch testing before starting the combination cannot be overstated, especially if you’re new to either ingredient. This simple step can save you from weeks of dealing with damaged skin and setback in your skincare progress. Starting with the lowest concentrations available allows your skin to build tolerance gradually while still providing benefits. Many users make the mistake of starting with high concentrations, thinking it will deliver faster results, but this approach often backfires. Proper sun protection requirements are non-negotiable when using these ingredients, as both increase your skin’s vulnerability to uv damage and environmental aggressors. This protection is essential for preventing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and other sun-related skin damage. Patch Testing Protocol Apply a small amount of each product to your inner wrist or behind your ear, areas where skin is sensitive but reactions won’t be highly visible. Choose an area you can easily monitor for 24-48 hours without disturbing the test site. Wait 24-48 hours to check for redness, itching, or irritation before proceeding with facial application. Some reactions take time to develop, so patience during this phase prevents more serious adverse effects later. Test products separately first, then together if individual tests pass without any negative reactions. This approach helps you identify which ingredient might be causing problems if reactions occur during combined use. Discontinue immediately if any adverse reactions occur during testing, including mild tingling that persists or any visual changes to the skin. Even minor reactions during patch testing often translate to more severe problems with regular use. Sun Protection Requirements BHA increases photosensitivity for up to one week after use, making diligent sun protection essential even on cloudy days or when spending most time indoors. UV light can penetrate windows and cause damage to sensitized skin. Apply broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning as the final step in your routine. Look for sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for reliable protection without potential irritation from chemical filters. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors, more frequently if swimming or sweating. Many people neglect reapplication, but it’s crucial for maintaining protection throughout the day when using exfoliating acids. Wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sun hours from 10am to 4pm when UV rays are strongest. This additional protection is especially important during your first few weeks of using the combination while your skin adjusts. Who Should Avoid This Combination Certain individuals should exercise extreme caution or avoid combining these ingredients altogether. People with very sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema often experience severe reactions that can worsen underlying skin conditions and require medical intervention. Those currently using prescription retinoids or other strong actives should consult their dermatologist before adding this combination. The cumulative effect of multiple active ingredients can overwhelm your skin barrier and lead to severe irritation. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider first, as some active ingredients may have restrictions during these periods. While topical salicylic acid is generally considered safe in low concentrations, individual circumstances may vary. Anyone with known allergies to salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide should obviously avoid this combination and seek alternative treatments. Those with compromised skin barriers or active wounds should wait until their skin heals completely before introducing active ingredients. Alternative Combinations for Sensitive Skin For those who cannot tolerate the BHA and benzoyl peroxide combination, several gentler alternatives can still provide effective acne treatment without the same risk of irritation. BHA combined with niacinamide offers oil control and pore-clearing benefits without excessive drying. Niacinamide actually helps strengthen the skin barrier while providing anti-inflammatory benefits that complement BHA’s exfoliating properties. Benzoyl peroxide paired with hyaluronic acid provides bacterial control while maintaining hydration and supporting skin barrier function. This combination is particularly effective for those whose skin becomes too dry with traditional acne treatments. Lower concentration products, such as 0.5% BHA or 2.5% benzoyl peroxide used separately, can still provide benefits while minimizing irritation risk. Sometimes a gentler approach delivers better long-term results than aggressive treatment. Gentle enzyme exfoliants serve as alternatives to BHA for sensitive skin types who still want exfoliation benefits. Ingredients like papaya or pumpkin enzymes can provide mild exfoliation without the potential for over-drying. Building Your Routine: Step-by-Step Guide Successfully incorporating these ingredients requires a gradual approach that allows your skin time to adapt while monitoring for any signs of irritation or adverse effects. Week 1-2: Introduce one ingredient every other day, starting with the lower concentration option. If you’re new to both ingredients, begin with BHA as it’s generally gentler than benzoyl peroxide for most skin types. Use a gentle cleanser that won’t strip your skin, followed by your chosen active ingredient, then a moisturizer, and sunscreen in the morning. Keep your routine simple during this introduction phase to identify any potential reactions. Week 3-4: Add the second ingredient on alternating days if your skin shows no signs of irritation. Continue monitoring for redness, excessive dryness, or persistent irritation that might indicate you need to slow down the introduction process. Week 5-6: Consider alternating morning and evening use if your skin tolerates the alternating day method well. This progression isn’t necessary for everyone - many people achieve excellent results with the alternating day approach long-term. Always maintain gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection throughout the process, regardless of which phase you’re in. These supportive steps are just as important as the active ingredients themselves for achieving optimal results. Adjust frequency based on skin response and seasonal changes, as factors like humidity, temperature, and stress levels can affect how your skin responds to active ingredients. What works in summer might need modification in winter’s drier conditions. Conclusion Combining BHA and benzoyl peroxide can be an incredibly effective strategy for treating stubborn acne when done correctly. The key lies in respecting these powerful ingredients and taking a measured approach that prioritizes your skin’s health over quick results. Remember that everyone’s skin is different, and what works for others might not work for you. Start slowly, listen to your skin, and don’t hesitate to adjust your approach if you experience irritation or other adverse effects. If you continue to struggle with acne despite using this combination correctly, consider consulting a dermatologist who can evaluate your specific skin type and recommend personalized treatments. Sometimes prescription options or professional guidance can provide the breakthrough you need for clearer, healthier skin. The most successful skincare routines are those built on patience, consistency, and careful attention to how your skin responds. With the right approach, BHA and benzoyl peroxide can become valuable tools in your journey toward clearer, more confident skin.

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