The 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine: Explained for Beginners

The 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine: Explained for Beginners

Ready to unlock glowing, glass-like skin?
The 10-step Korean skincare routine is more than a trend—it's a thoughtful, self-care ritual rooted in consistency, hydration, and layering the right ingredients. Whether you're new to skincare or just curious about K-Beauty, this guide breaks it down in simple terms.

What Is the 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine?

The Korean skincare philosophy is all about prevention over correction, focusing on gentle, consistent care. Unlike harsh treatments or quick fixes, the 10-step routine builds a foundation for long-term skin health—layer by layer.

Think of it as treating your skin like silk: cleansing it thoroughly, nourishing it deeply, and protecting it consistently.

Step-by-Step Guide (With Purpose & Benefits)

1. Oil Cleanser

Purpose: Dissolves oil-based impurities like sunscreen, makeup, and sebum.
Why it matters: It’s the first step in the double cleanse—essential for a clean slate.

Try: Heimish All Clean Balm – A cult-favorite for a reason.

2. Water-Based Cleanser

Purpose: Removes leftover sweat, dirt, and water-based impurities.
Why it matters: Ensures no residue is left behind to clog pores.

Try: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser – Gentle yet effective.

3. Exfoliator (2–3x a week)

Purpose: Sloughs off dead skin cells to brighten and clear skin.
Why it matters: Boosts absorption of other products.

Try: Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Wine – Mild exfoliation with antioxidant benefits.

4. Toner

Purpose: Balances skin’s pH and preps it to absorb moisture.
Why it matters: Helps the skin drink up the next steps more effectively.

Try: Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner – Hydrating and calming.

5. Essence

Purpose: Lightweight hydration + skin-repairing ingredients.
Why it matters: The heart of K-Beauty—targets dullness and dehydration.

Try: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – For healing and glow.

6. Serum/Ampoule

Purpose: Concentrated treatment for issues like acne, pigmentation, or wrinkles.
Why it matters: Packs a punch with active ingredients.

Try: Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum – Fights acne and soothes inflammation.

7. Sheet Mask (2–3x a week)

Purpose: Delivers a burst of hydration and nutrients.
Why it matters: A relaxing, spa-like boost to your skincare.

Try: Mediheal N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule Mask – Intense hydration.

8. Eye Cream

Purpose: Hydrates and protects the delicate eye area.
Why it matters: Prevents fine lines and puffiness.

Try: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Eye Cream – Lightweight and antioxidant-rich.

9. Moisturizer

Purpose: Seals in all previous steps and locks in hydration.
Why it matters: Essential for barrier repair and smooth skin.

Try: Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream – Perfect for sensitive skin.

10. Sunscreen (AM only)

Purpose: Shields your skin from UV rays (the #1 cause of aging).
Why it matters: Non-negotiable for long-term skin health.

Try: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ – Lightweight and silky.

Do You Need All 10 Steps?

Not necessarily!
The routine is flexible. You can start with the basics—cleanser, toner, moisturizer, sunscreen—and build up based on your needs. The 10 steps are a framework, not a rulebook.

Tips to Customize Based on Skin Type

  • Oily/Acne-Prone: Focus on lightweight, non-comedogenic products. Use exfoliants and serums with ingredients like BHA, tea tree, or propolis.

  • Dry/Sensitive: Layer hydration with soothing ingredients like centella, snail mucin, or hyaluronic acid. Avoid harsh exfoliants.

  • Combination: Balance is key—use gel cleansers and light serums, and hydrate generously.

  • Mature Skin: Look for nourishing essences and anti-aging serums with peptides, niacinamide, or ginseng.

Back to blog