Full 10-step Korean Skincare Routine
1. Makeup Remover & Oil Cleanser 
This is the very first step of the so called double cleansing. With an oil-based cleanser you will remove your makeup and oil-based impurities think of pollution, SPF, sebum, etc. If you wear strong/waterproof eye and lip makeup it might be a good idea to take at look at an eye & lip remover.
2. Water Based Cleanser 
+
This is your second step of the double cleanse. With a water based cleanser you will remove the leftovers from your oil cleanser but also water-based impurities like dirt and sweat.
3. Exfoliator 1-2 times/week
Exfoliating help to clean the pores and to remove dead skin cells. There are two types of exfoliators: Physical and Chemical. Physical exfoliators contain small particles like coffee, jojoba beads or sugar. You have to manually gently rub the product on the skin.
Chemical exfoliators are acids, they break down the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together. These acids are AHA, BHA and PHA.
AHA: Alpha Hydroxy Acid Water-soluble, helps to peel away the surface of you skin so that new, more evenly pigmented skin cells may generate and take their place.
BHA: Beta Hydroxy Acid Oil-soluble, can get deeper into the pores to remove dead skin cells and excess sebum.
PHA: Poly Hydroxy Acid Work in a similar way to AHA, the difference is that PHA molecules are larger so they cannot penetrate as deeply. PHA is also less irritating than the other chemical exfoliators, particularly AHA. Although PHA don’t go as deep, they have additional hydrating and antioxidant benefits.
4. Toner +
Toner is the ultimate prep product, it removes the leftover residue from your cleansers while it also balances moisture and the pH levels of your skin.
5. Essence +
Essences are lightweight products, packed with hydrating, anti-aging, and complexion-enhancing ingredients. Essences also aids in skin cell turnover.
6. Treatments +
Treatments directly treats problem areas, they comes as boosters, serums, and ampoules. They target specific skin concerns such as acne, fine lines, hyperpigmentation, etc.
7. Sheet Masks
Can be used everyday, but not all types of sheet masks are suitable for daily use. So keep an eye of the ingredients list. The packaging also has recommendations, so read before usage.
Sheet masks infuses your skin with concentrated essence. The key to sheet masks is the sheet, which when in prolonged contact with your face allows the skin to fully absorb the nutrients and moisture.
8. Eye Cream +
The skin around your eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on your face. So handle it with care, use your pinkie to gently tap (never rub!). Eye creams are concentrated with beneficial ingredients and formulated to be extra gentle and non-irritating. Eye creams helps to hydrate the skin around your eye.
9. Moisturizer +
A moisturizer helps to seal in the moisture to plump and smooth your skin. There are so many types of moisturizers out there, like an emulsion, a lotion, gel, cream, and even a sleeping mask. Try out different types of moisturizers and see which one you like the best.
A sleeping mask should be used as last step of your night time routine, and if you want you can use a moisturizer beforehand if you think you need that extra moisture.
10. Sun Protection
Wearing sun protection is a MUST! Yes even when you are inside of your house, unless you are at a place where there’s no daylight. Your windows doesn’t block all the of UV light. Wearing sun protection does not only prevent skin cancer but it is also an anti-aging product! Sunscreen should be apply at the end of your routine, otherwise I will be diluted by additional products. Also it is very important to keep reapplying throughout the day as long there is daylight!
