The Korean skincare routine is based on fundamental principles aimed at preserving and improving the health and appearance of the skin. It is structured around several steps that can be adapted according to the needs of each person. Here are the main elements that make up this approach:
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Double cleaning (evening only)
- Makeup Remover Oil : The first step is to use a makeup remover oil to remove makeup, sunscreens, and fat-soluble impurities.
- Water-based cleanser : Next, a gentle water-based cleanser is used to remove residue and purify the skin. This double cleanse ensures skin is clean and ready for the next treatments.
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Exfoliation (1 to 2 times per week)
- This step helps remove dead cells, promoting cell renewal and making the skin brighter and softer. In K-beauty, exfoliation is often gentle, with products containing AHA or BHA acids that do not attack the skin.
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Tonic (or lotion)
- The toner restores the skin's pH after cleansing and prepares it to better absorb care. It lightly hydrates and soothes, providing a more receptive base for the following steps.
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- Essence is a key product in K-beauty. It is a lightweight moisturizer that helps to deeply hydrate the skin and improve elasticity. It also helps the absorption of products applied afterwards.
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- Serums and ampoules are active concentrates targeting specific needs such as radiance, hydration, fine lines, or imperfections. They are products rich in active ingredients adapted to specific skin problems.
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Sheet masks (1-2 times per week)
- Sheet masks are popular in K-beauty for providing intense care. They deeply hydrate, soothe and nourish the skin. It's a "pampering" step that is often considered a moment of relaxation.
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- Eye cream is used to moisturize and treat this fragile area prone to fine lines and dark circles.
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- Moisturizer seals in previous treatments by providing a barrier that prevents moisture from evaporating. It ensures that the skin remains supple and soft.
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Sunscreen (morning only)
- Sunscreen is a must-have in the Korean routine, as it prevents premature aging and protects the skin from UV rays. It is applied every morning, even on cloudy days, for effective protection.
Fundamental principles
- Prevention and hydration : K-beauty focuses a lot on preventing skin problems, maintaining a good level of hydration and protecting the skin.
- Skin-friendly : Korean products are generally gentle and formulated to minimize irritation, even for sensitive skin.
- Layering approach : By applying products in several light layers, the skin can absorb nutrients deeply without being weighed down.
These steps may seem like a lot, but they are flexible and can be reduced depending on individual needs.