The famous 10-step Korean skincare routine is one of the pillars of K-Beauty . It may seem complex at first, but it relies on a step-by-step approach, where each step is designed to treat the skin gently and deeply. Here's a detailed look at this routine and its benefits:
1. Oil cleaning
The first cleanse, often called a double cleanse , starts with a cleansing oil. It helps dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities like sebum. Cleansing oils are effective at removing residue while respecting the skin's natural balance.
Benefits : Eliminates impurities without drying out the skin.
2. Water-based cleaning
The second step of double cleansing uses a water-based cleanser, such as a foam or gel, to remove any remaining impurities, such as sweat and dirt, from the skin. This step ensures skin is squeaky clean without being harsh.
Benefits : Deeply cleanses, leaving skin soft and fresh.
3. Exfoliation
Exfoliation is crucial to remove dead cells and unclog pores. It allows the skin to better absorb the following products. Exfoliants can be mechanical (gentle scrubs) or chemical (AHA/BHA), depending on the skin type.
Benefits : Improves skin texture and brightens complexion.
Frequency : 1 to 2 times per week, depending on skin sensitivity.
4. Toner
Toner, or tonic lotion, prepares the skin for other treatments. It helps restore the skin's pH after cleansing and provides a first layer of hydration. Unlike the astringent toners often used in the West, Korean toners are generally hydrating and soothing.
Benefits : Rebalances the skin's pH and improves the absorption of care products.
5. Essence
Essence is the signature product of Korean skincare. It falls somewhere between a toner and a serum, and is often very hydrating. Essence helps nourish and regenerate the skin, stimulating cell renewal.
Benefits : Improves skin hydration and regeneration, while providing radiance.
6. Serum / Ampoule
Serums and ampoules are concentrated products designed to treat specific skin problems: wrinkles, spots, enlarged pores, etc. They are rich in powerful and targeted active ingredients.
Benefits : Treats specific skin concerns, such as hyperpigmentation, signs of aging or acne.
7. Sheet mask
Sheet masks are a pampering step. Soaked in serum, they provide intensive care. Each mask is designed to target a specific problem (hydration, radiance, anti-aging). They are used approximately 1 to 2 times a week for a basic treatment.
Benefits : Intense hydration and targeted care depending on the type of mask.
8. Eye cream
The skin around the eyes is particularly thin and prone to wrinkles and dark circles. Using an eye cream helps to moisturize this delicate area and combat signs of fatigue and aging.
Benefits : Hydrates and reduces puffiness and dark circles, prevents the appearance of wrinkles.
9. Moisturizer
Moisturizer is essential to seal in moisture and create a protective barrier on the skin. There are a wide variety of creams depending on skin type: light for oily skin or richer for dry skin.
Benefits : Protects and maintains skin hydration throughout the day or night.
10. Sun protection
An essential step in the daily routine, sun protection is the key to preventing premature aging and UV damage. Even on cloudy days, it is recommended to apply a cream with an adequate SPF to protect the skin.
Benefits : Protects against UV rays, prevents brown spots and skin aging.
How to adapt the routine to your skin?
While this 10-step routine may seem like a lot, it's flexible enough to fit your skin's specific needs and schedule. You don't necessarily need to do all 10 steps every day. For example, exfoliating and sheet masking aren't daily routines, and you can adjust the number of products based on your concerns.
The 10-step routine is more than just a skincare ritual; it’s a way to reconnect with yourself, while taking care of your skin in a gradual and gentle way. By integrating hydrating, nourishing, and protective products at each step, this routine helps maintain healthy, luminous, and youthful skin.
You can start with a few basic steps and gradually add specific treatments depending on your needs.