The Easiest 5 Step Korean Skin Care Routine for Rookies

Korean facial skin care can be so intimidating, especially when you’re starting out. Do I need a serum? A moisturizer? A face wash? What the heck is an essence?!  

If you feel like you’re swimming in a sea of skincare products and don’t know where to start, don’t worry – I’m here to help! Today, I’m going to show you how to do the easiest 5-step Korean skin care routine for rookies that want to get that Korean glass skin without having to perform an endless 10-step ritual!

No matter if you have sensitive, dry, oily, or normal skin, read on, and get ready to start your journey to beautiful skin!

Korean Facial Skin Care: Is It Worth the Hype?

Any beauty enthusiast knows that a solid skincare routine is vital for achieving clear, youthful skin. If you've been paying attention over the past few years, you likely know about the renowned Korean skin care routine, which has roots that can be traced back thousands of years, drawing on ancient ingredients like ginseng and green tea. But what exactly is it?

Korean facial skin care is a comprehensive beauty regimen comprised of 10 fundamental skin care steps aimed at achieving "glass skin," a term that signifies flawless, porcelain-like, glowing skin. This extensive routine emphasizes skin health as a form of self-care and wellness, reflecting a deep cultural appreciation for beauty and well-being.

While the complete regimen may appear daunting to some, many enthusiasts have adopted this ritual, which has now gained popularity globally, transcending skin types and cultures. In response, we've simplified the approach into a 5-step Korean skin care routine to help improve your skin's appearance and overall health without the overwhelm!

Korean Beauty Routine: 5 Basic Skin Care Steps

A traditional Korean skincare regimen typically includes double cleansing, exfoliating, applying toner, essence, serum, eye cream, and face cream, along with treatments and sunscreen. If you find all these steps intimidating, don't worry! Here’s our easy 5-step Korean skin care routine, tailored to give you the radiant skin you desire: 

1. Double Cleansing

Double cleansing is a cornerstone of the Korean beauty philosophy, and it’s easy to understand why. This two-step process involves an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to effectively eliminate makeup, dirt, and excess oil from the skin. While it’s particularly beneficial for those who wear makeup or have oily skin, anyone can enjoy the refreshing effects of double cleansing.

Here’s how to do it: 

Oil-Based Cleanser:

Oil cleansers are designed to dissolve oil-based impurities. These gentle formulas are effective at breaking down makeup and dirt, while also providing moisture to the skin without clogging pores—perfect even for those with acne-prone complexions.

• iUNIK Calendula Complete Cleansing Oil 
• The Face Shop Rice Brightening Water Cleansing Rich Oil
• Elizavecca Natural 90% Olive Cleansing Oil

Water-Based Cleanser:

A water-based cleanser targets water-soluble impurities like sweat and should come in the form of foams, gels, or creams. Although this step may feel redundant to some, it is essential for thoroughly cleansing the skin and achieving that coveted fresh feeling.

For those short on time, consider multi-tasking cleansers that combine both oil and water components!

2. Toner

Toners are often seen as a refreshing liquid applied after cleansing, but their role is far more impactful. They help balance the skin's pH, restore nutrients, and prepare your skin for better absorption of subsequent treatments.

Different toners exist for different needs—from hydrating to exfoliating—so selecting one suited to your skin type is crucial.

• SOME BY MI AHA-BHA-PHA 30Days Miracle Toner
• G9Skin White In Milk Toner
• COSRX Refresh ABC Daily Toner 
  

3. Treatments

Achieving that dewy, glass-like skin synonymous with K-beauty is often a priority. Given that skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors, dedicating time to treatment products like serums and spot treatments is crucial. These are formulated to target specific concerns such as hydration, brightness, and aging.

Available options include hyaluronic acid for hydration, vitamin C for brightening and tackling dark spots, and salicylic acid for treating blemishes. Choose your products based on your skin's unique needs, applying lighter textures first.

4. Moisturizer

No matter your skin type, moisturizer is essential for maintaining a healthy barrier and preventing dryness. It adds hydration and protects the skin from environmental aggressors that could lead to breakouts or irritation.

For oily or combination skin, gel moisturizers are ideal as they absorb quickly and offer hydration without heaviness. Conversely, if you're dealing with dry skin, opt for richer cream moisturizers that lock in moisture. And if you have sensitive skin, prioritize fragrance-free options to minimize irritation.

5. Sunscreen

Lastly, sunscreen is non-negotiable! It's not just a protective measure; it’s also vital for preventing premature aging and maintaining skin health. Regular use of a broad-spectrum SPF can help reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation.

• Heimish Artless Glow Base SPF 50+ PA+++
• Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF50 PA+++ 55ml
• All Around Safe Block Waterproof Sun Milk

K beauty steps: Extras you need to include from time to time

Now you may be thinking: “THERE’S MORE?! I thought this was a 5-step Korean skin care routine, what do you mean by extras?” 

Don’t be alarmed! This is still a 5-step routine, however, here are a few extras you may want to include 2-3 times a week to spice up your regime even more: 

Sheet mask

If there’s something the Korean beauty industry is obsessed with are sheet masks and for a good reason! 

For those who are unfamiliar with them, a sheet mask is a thin sheet of fabric that is soaked in a serum or essence and then applied to the face. It’s usually left on for 15-20 minutes, after which the mask is removed and the skin is rinsed off with water. 

Korean sheet masks are especially popular because they are often packed with hydrating, calming, and brightening ingredients like ginseng, Centella Asiatica, and green tea. In addition, sheet masks are a great way to force yourself to take a break from your busy day and relax for a few minutes.

There are for every skin type, from dry skin to oily skin and everything in between, and they can be used 2-3 times a week to treat specific skin concerns. 

Exfoliation

Another Korean skin care classic is exfoliation and, even though this step can be performed every day *unless you want to tear and dry out your skin*, it’s a crucial time-to-time step that you shouldn’t skip. 

Koreans typically exfoliate their skin 2-3 times per week using either a physical or chemical exfoliator. Physical exfoliators contain small grains that slough off dead skin cells, while chemical exfoliators use acids to dissolve them. This helps to brighten the complexion, unclog pores, and prevent breakouts.

Extra tip: if you have sensitive skin, include this step once a week and go from there. 

Korean beauty secrets: Where to find your favorite products?

Now that you know everything about the 5-step Korean skin care routine that will give you amazing results without spending a crazy amount of time in front of the mirror, it’s for the most fun part: SHOPPING!

If you’re looking for your Korean skincare favorites or want to explore what goodies are the best for you, visit our shop! In Asian Beauty Essentials you’ll find everything you need to build the best 5-step Korean skin care routine for you!

What are you waiting for? Start shopping today and get ready to get that Korean glass skin you’ve been craving for!

Related articles:

• The 10 Step Skincare Routine Explained 
• 10 Best-Kept Skin Care Tips that will Skyrocket Your Routine
• An A to Z Guide to the Buzzworthy Korean Skin Care Routine
• How To Build A Skincare Routine: Easy Guide To Your Dreamed Skin! 
• Why You Should Do Double Cleanse Method: A Guide to Asian Beauty 
• Types of Cleansers: Yeah, There is More Than One! 
• What Does Toner Do? 5 Benefits + Top 3 Toners for Your Skin Type 
• What is Exfoliation? A Full Guide on How to Exfoliate your Skin
• Moisturizer For Oily Skin: Do or Don’t?
• Should I Wear Sunscreen Indoors? The Definitive Answer! 
• Essence Vs Toners Vs Serums: Difference, When And How Do You Use Them?