Do you have a favorite Kpop Idol? Are you a fan of Korean Dramas? If you are, you probably noticed by now that Koreans have one of the best skins in the world. It can be genetic or possibly because of their diets. But the main reason is that they take their skin care very seriously. So serious in fact that they follow an extensive 10-step Korean Beauty Regimen. And it’s not just the women, the same is true with men. In fact, the Korean beauty product industry is included in the top 10 in the world.
So, if you want to achieve a younger, brighter and flawless looking skin; you may want to integrate their 10-step morning and evening beauty regimen into your lifestyle.
1.CLEANSE
AM: Water Only
The first thing that they do upon waking up is to wash their face with water. No soap, no cleanser, just plain water. The purpose is to keep the face hydrated and to remove dirts and impurities that were accumulated during sleep.
At night, instead of plain water, the Koreans follow a two-step cleansing process:
PM: Double Cleanse
a. Oil Cleanser
The first step is to remove make-up by using an oil cleanser. An oil cleanser removes not only the make-up but also excess oil, sebums and pollution that were accumulated in your face the whole day. Use circular motion when cleansing your face.
b. Water-Based Cleanser
Water-based cleansers remove water-based impurities that were not removed by the oil cleanser such as sweat and dirt. Just like the oil cleanser, use circular motion when cleansing your face.
2. EXFOLIATE
Exfoliator
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that are clogging the skin. That is why regular exfoliation is needed to prevent build up of dead cells that may clog your pores resulting in break outs. However, daily exfoliation can cause dryness and irritation. It is recommended that you exfoliate your skin not more than three times a week.
3. TONE
Toner
A toner is used for extra-cleansing to remove remaining dirt, oil and make-up. It shrinks your pores, reducing the risks of dirt and other impurities from penetrating your skin adding an extra layer of protection to your skin. It also restores the PH balance of your skin. Use a cotton pad and swipe and pat it gently onto your skin.
4. ESSENCE
Essence
For Koreans, essence is probably the most important part of their Korean skin regimen. Essence is used after a toner to add another layer of hydration to the skin. It is a little creamier compared to a toner. Although both toner and essence serves as hydration for the skin, a toner’s primary purpose is to remove the remaining impurities while an essence primes the skin for better absorption of serum and creams. It also contains anti-aging and complexion-enhancing ingredients. It is designed to penetrate deeper into the skin. Apply it by placing little drops into your palms and patting them gently onto your face.
5. TREATMENT
Serum, Ampules and Other Treatments
This varies per individual. You can apply it or you can totally skip it. It all depends on the condition and the requirement of your skin. For others, it can be an acne treatment for pimples, whiteheads and blackheads. It can be a treatment to remove redness, brown spots or pigmentation. It can be for skin rejuvenation or anti-aging treatment. Again, it all depends on your skin. Just apply it directly to the concern areas.
6. MASK
Face Mask
The purpose of a face mask is to expose your skin to prolonged contact with moisture and whatever nutrients that your skin needs. Just like the treatment, use a mask containing nutrients that your skin needs. Leave it on your skin for 20 minutes. Do this twice a week.
7. EMULSION
Emulsion
Emulsions are water-based thus they are lighter than creams and less concentrated than serums or treatments. Its main purpose is to lock the skin moisture. It hydrates and seals the essence, treatment and mask that you just put in your skin, reinforcing their benefits.
8. EYE CARE
Eye Cream
The purpose of eye creams is to prevent or lessen fine lines and dark circles around your eyes. When applying eye cream, remember that the skin around your eyes is the thinnest and most sensitive part of your skin. So, apply it as gently as possible.
9. MOISTURIZE
Cream
Moisturizers keep your skin hydrated and prevent dryness and itchiness. Apply daily both in the morning and at night. Pat it on your face and on your neck.
10. SUNBLOCK
Sunscreen
Put sunscreen in the morning. It will protect your face from the harmful ultraviolet rays from the sun. It is recommended that you use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
For Koreans, instead of a simple sunblock, they replace this last step with a BB cream. BB cream stands for beauty balm or blemish balm. It serves as a foundation, primer, sunblock and even moisturizer. It is not too heavy like the regular foundation but it works like it. BB creams also help cover lines and scars and give glow to the skin. It helps you achieve the no makeup look. That’s why both Korean men and women use it. It also contains the SPF needed to protect your skin.
First Published in Pinoy Smart Living on 21.04.2019
Feature Photo by Jess @ Harper Sunday from Pexels