Have you ever wondered why or how Koreans have such beautiful, glowing and even-toned skin? They follow an organised 10 Step Skincare regimen that has been quite the hype on social media in the past two years. The results that you may see with this systematic beauty regimen will surely surprise you. In this article, we’ll walk you through all the steps, explaining what they are, why they are important, and how you can adapt them for your skin type. Now, let’s talk about each step in detail:
Step 1 - Use an Oil based Ceanser
The very first step of this 10-step Korean skin care routine includes using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and residual dirt. Oil-based cleansers help in breaking down waterproof makeup, sunscreen, stubborn dirt particles and other residues. Take a small amount of the cleansing product and gently rub it onto your face in circular motions for about 2-3 minutes which helps in increasing blood circulation, essential for healthy glowing skin. This further helps the cells to carry out their functions smoothly to keep your skin bright and healthy! Then, rinse it off with lukewarm water.
Step 2 - Use a Water/Foam based Cleanser
The second part of the routine involves using a water/foam based cleanser in order to get rid of the leftover sweat, makeup, and dirt. This double-cleansing procedure for your face will help in removing residual dirt, grime, sweat and oil-based impurities as well. Take a small pump or two of the cleanser and gently massage it in a circular motion into your skin. Use a pH balancing cleanser in order to prevent it from eradicating your original skin barrier to keep those essential oils locked into your skin. A cleanser with a pH number higher than 4.7-5.7 is not considered healthy for skin.
Step 3 - Exfoliate your Skin
Exfoliation with a gentle scrub suitable for your skin type helps in removing dead skin cells from your skin making it appear brighter and evenly-toned. It helps in improving your skin’s overall texture as well. Take a small amount of the scrub on your palm and gently massage it in a circular motion on your face. Rinse it off after two minutes.
Step 4 - Apply Toner
Apply a few drops of Toner on a cotton pad, and dab on cleansed skin. Toner or astringent helps in removing residual dirt from your face and balances out the skin’s natural pH levels. They also help in diminishing the excess oil content from your skin to make it feel clean and tight. Toners can be used for moisturizing and soothing purposes due to their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Step 5 - Essence
Take a few drops of Essence on your finger tips and pat it lightly onto your toned skin. This is one of the most vital steps which soothes your skin and heals it simultaneously. An essence is packed with hydrating ingredients that speed-up cell turnover.
Step 6 - Use a(n) Serum/Ampule/Booster
Take a few drops of Serum and rub it between your palms to warm up the product. Then pat it gently on your skin. Your skin is clear and ready to effectively absorb this. This is just slightly more concentrated and heavier in consistency than an essence. It contains active ingredients for specific skin concerns like wrinkles, pigmentation, dark spots, etc.
Step 7 - Sheet Mask
Apply the sheet onto your face and gently pat the mask around your eyes and mouth. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Sheet masks are soaked in a serum and are infused with vitamins and minerals. They have hydrating properties that leave your skin soft and supple.
Step 8 - Eye Cream
Take a pea-sized drop of eye cream on your fingertips and gently dab it on the skin under your eyes. The skin around your eyes is usually very sensitive and is the first to show signs of aging. Eye-cream helps in preventing wrinkles, dark circles and crow’s feet. They calm the skin under your eyes and keep it moisturized and hydrated.
Step 9 – Moisturize & Night Mask
Take a small amount of the cream/lotion and gently massage it into your skin in circular motions for about 10-15 minutes. This acts as a lock-in for the previous layers by acting like an occlusive barrier to seal in the previously applied products. In case of oily skin, use a light moisturizer. In case of dry skin, use a heavy cream-based moisturizer. Use a hydrating sheet mask on your face before going to bed at night.
Step 10 - SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
Gently pat the product onto your face, neck and jawline to protect your skin against harmful UV rays. Always use a broad-spectrum, PA+++ sunscreen. In case you have oily skin, you can use a physical sunblock or mineral sunscreen in order to avoid clogged pores.
These were the 10 steps of the popular 10 Step Korean Skincare regimen that has taken the beauty and wellness industry by storm. In case you have severe acne, consult a dermatologist before trying something new. Always remember whether you follow this 10-step Korean skincare regimen or just follow a 3-step CTM routine, taking care of your skin is crucial to prevent early aging signs and maintain smooth ,well- toned and healthy skin. Before starting this 10- step Korean facial, conduct a patch-test. In case you have sensitive skin, apply the products at the back of your hand and wait for about 24 hours. If you don’t see any reactions, you can start the Korean beauty regimen.