Have you ever noticed how Korean women have perfectly smooth, radiant and apparently poreless skin? It’s no wonder their skincare regime is turning into such a beauty cult the world over. And no, it’s not because of their genes (or thanks to eating raw fish), they actually follow a meticulous skincare routine that basically doubles the amount of cleansing and moisturizing. Korean women are diligent about taking care of their complexion from very early on, which is one of the biggest reasons they look so gorgeous at any age. We tell you exactly how the Koreans do it. Read on for the steps that are taking the global beauty world by storm for flawlessly fresh skin.
The Korean Skin Routine is a 10-step process. Don’t worry, it won’t take you more than 15 minutes and won’t feel so complicated after the first day or two. It all boils down to intensely cleansing, moisturizing, exfoliating and adding SPF.
Also Read Korean And Japanese Skincare Routine
Step 1: The Pre-Cleanse
Just like we usually would, Korean women begin their routine by thoroughly taking off their BB cream, eye makeup and blush with a cleansing towelette. Then, get rid of all the build-up from the day with a oil cleanser, because oil removes dirt and impurities while hydrating the skin.
POPxo Recommends: Hazelnut oil, olive oil or diluted castor oil
Step 2: Cleanse Again!
Yes, double-cleansing is their secret to glowing, acne-free skin. This time, use a gentle foaming cleanser in circular motions (to increase blood flow). You take so long putting on your makeup, it makes sense to spend a bit extra time on cleansing your face after.
POPxo Recommends: The Body Shop Tea Tree Foaming Cleanser (Rs. 895)
Step 3: Exfoliate Away (Optional)
Smooth, supple skin is a direct result of buffing away dead skin cells and impurities. A gentle black sugar mask or coffee ground scrub (you can make your own) works wonders for fresh skin. Don’t use every night but just once or twice a week, concentrating on visible pores and blackheads on your nose.
POPxo Recommends: Missha Brown Sugar Facial Scrub (Rs. 929)
Step 4: Toner Time
And no, we don’t mean your regular, drowning-in-alcohol toner. Korean toners are designed to refresh, clarify, hydrate and cleanse (again!) your skin while restoring its pH balance. They help your skin better absorb the serums in the next step.
POPxo Recommends: We think good old Rose Water can do the trick for any skin type
Step 5: The All-Essential Essence
One of the most essential steps in the Korean skincare regime, essence is a nourishing liquid concentrate that enhances cell turnover. By accelerating the skin renewal process, you’re basically ensuring your skin looks youthful and fresh always. Just spritz on the mist for noticeable results.
POPxo Recommends: The Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence (Rs. 3567) is definitely a splurge but it also makes up one of the most important steps of the entire routine. With rave reviews from women around the world, we do think it will be worth it though.
Korean Beauty Secrets For Whiter Skin
Step 6: Serum To Brighten Skin
The Korean term for it is ampoule and it’s basically a vitamin-enriched, concentrated version of essence. These babies are all about plumping your skin and fighting ageing problems from early on like dull skin, wrinkles and loss of firmness and elasticity.
POPxo Recommends: Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Activator Ampoule (Rs. 1950)
Step 7: Mask It (Optional)
A sheet mask is basically a sheet oozing with serum meant to target specific areas. You get them for your chin, neck, eyes and even your lips. Use them a couple times a week.
POPxo Recommends: Dermal Cherry Blossom Collagen Essence Masks (Rs. 600)
Step 8: Eye Cream
You may think you’re too young but prevention really is better than cure. A super hydrating, thick eye cream helps hydrate the delicate area around your eyes and keep wrinkles and dark circles at bay. Tap it around your eyes instead of pulling your skin.
POPxo Recommends: Himalya Herbals Under Eye Cream (Rs. 165)
Step 9: Moisturize – You Knew It Was Coming!
Something lightweight that doesn’t feel heavy and greasy is basically what you need.
Step 10: SPF (Every morning!)
You already know the importance of sunscreen!
The whole process may seem complex as hell, but for Korean women it’s perfectly normal. If they’re radiant complexion is anything to go by then the earlier you start the better.
Images: shutterstock
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