Korean Skincare Should Get the Hype
Korean skincare has ruled the beauty world for years. And for good reason- this multi-step process is super precise and leaves your skin looking like a porcelain doll. The number of steps varies between individuals, but the most popular marketed skincare process is 10 steps. Yeah, it’s more than just your CeraVe cleanser and moisturizer. But give credit where credit is due, it works.
Korean beauty (K-beauty) has been on the rise with the goal to create skincare that goes beyond your skin’s outer layer. K-beauty uses natural ingredients free of harsh chemicals to enhance the features of your face, and not just out of preference. South Korea went above and beyond and decided that all cosmetic and skincare brands must go cruelty-free in 2018 - hell yes! If a flawless face is your goal, check out the process below and you’ll be on your way to perfect skin. Maybe even as perfect as your fave Korean idol… we can dream!
Cleanse:
Oil Cleanser: This is the base of Korean skincare, removes makeup and dirt that was trapped in your skin after a long day.
Foam Cleanser: Cleansing twice? That’s right! Foam cleansers will help thoroughly remove other impurities.
Exfoliant: Make your skin feel like a baby’s bottom. Cleanse your pores while taking off those nasty dead skin cells.
Prep:
Toner: After cleansing, it is important to build up your skin's barrier. Re-dampening the skin will prepare it for nourishing.
Nourish:
Essence: HYDRATE that skin! Essences are always lightweight and can help with anti-aging.
Serum: Serums help target areas of concern on the face (acne, fine lines).
Sheet Mask: Relax and meditate with a calming sheet mask. This allows the skin to absorb all the nutrients from the previous steps.
Eye Cream: Did you know that the skin around your eyes is the thinnest? Eye creams will gently moisturize the area.
Protect:
Moisturizer: Seal in ALL the moisture… simple as that.
SPF: Never forget sunscreen - I mean it. Doesn’t matter if you are inside or outside, sunscreen will protect your skin from damaging UV rays.
I know, this routine is a lot. But the bigger the better, right? Although this process is pretty intense, it is not overpowering because it uses products that will only benefit your skin. Brands you should check out include: COSRX, Banila Co, Innisfree, TONYMOLY and Glow Recipe. In the US, we tend to focus our skincare on one brand for the whole routine. Yet, with K-beauty, intertwining different brands within your routine is actually encouraged. You can feel a sense of relief knowing that each brand is using natural ingredients in all of their products.
Don’t knock it ‘til you try it - go get that perfect skin!