How is a typical Korean skincare routine structured?

A typical Korean skincare routine is structured in multiple steps, usually 4 or 10 steps. Here's a general breakdown:

What are 4 Steps in Korean Skincare?

4-Step Korean Skincare Routine:

1. Cleanser
• Why: To remove dirt, oil, makeup, and impurities.
• How: Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type (gel, foam, or cream cleanser).
  
  
2. Toner
• Why: To balance the skin’s pH, hydrate, and prepare the skin to absorb the following products.
• How: Apply with a cotton pad or gently press it into the skin with your hands.
  
  
3. Moisturizer
• Why: To lock in hydration and maintain a smooth skin texture.
• How: Use a moisturizer suitable for your skin type (lighter gel for oily skin, cream for dry skin).
  
  
4. Sunscreen (AM)
• Why: To protect the skin from harmful UV rays and prevent aging, pigmentation, and sun damage.
• How: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every morning.
  
  

Summary:

• The 4-step routine is a simplified version of the K-beauty approach, focusing on cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and sunscreen for everyday skin care.
  
  
  

What are 10 Steps in Korean Skincare?

10-Step Korean Skincare Routine:

The 10-step routine is the full, traditional Korean skincare regimen. It addresses specific concerns and aims to achieve glowing, healthy skin with thorough care. While it may sound lengthy, many steps are about layering different products that each serve a specific purpose.

1. Oil-Based Cleanser
• Why: To remove makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities.
• How: Use a gentle cleansing balm or oil to dissolve makeup.
  
  
2. Water-Based Cleanser
• Why: To deeply clean the skin and remove any leftover impurities.
• How: Use a gel or foam cleanser to cleanse the skin without stripping it.
  
  
3. Exfoliator (1-2 times a week)
• Why: To remove dead skin cells and smooth the skin texture.
• How: Use a gentle exfoliator (scrubs or chemical exfoliants with AHA/BHA) to remove dead skin.
  
  
4. Toner
• Why: To balance pH, hydrate, and prepare the skin for the next steps.
• How: Apply with a cotton pad or gently press it into the skin.
  
  
5. Essence
• Why: To add hydration and prep the skin for serums. Essences contain active ingredients that penetrate deeply.
• How: Gently pat it into the skin to boost moisture levels.
  
  
6. Serum/Ampoule
• Why: To target specific skin concerns (aging, pigmentation, acne).
• How: Apply a serum or ampoule with concentrated active ingredients.
  
  
7. Sheet Mask (1-2 times a week)
• Why: For intense hydration and nourishment. Sheet masks are soaked in beneficial ingredients and provide instant results.
• How: Place the mask on your face for 15-20 minutes, then remove and pat the leftover essence into your skin.
  
  
8. Eye Cream
• Why: To target concerns around the delicate eye area, such as puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.
• How: Apply a small amount to the under-eye area using your ring finger.
  
  
9. Moisturizer
• Why: To lock in moisture and maintain skin hydration.
• How: Apply a moisturizer suited to your skin type, whether it's a gel, cream, or oil.
  
  
10. Sunscreen (AM)
• Why: To protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
• How: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every morning.
  
  

Summary:

• The 10-step routine offers a comprehensive, layered approach to skincare, allowing you to address specific skin concerns with steps like exfoliating, essences, serums, sheet masks, and eye cream, in addition to the basics.
  
  
  

Both routines aim for healthy, glowing skin, with the 10-step routine being more tailored to deep treatment and customization for specific needs.