1. Wear SPF daily
One of the pillars of K-beauty is to never underestimate the power of SP; 90% of how your skin ages is down to sun exposure, so maximum protection is essential if you want your skin to look fresh and youthful for as long as possible. Sarah Lee explains that “Hybrid SPF products like moisturizers or foundations contain such a small percentage of SPF, that we always recommend finishing your skincare routine with a stand-alone SPF step.” She also adds that in Korea they’re seeing “new technology where there are now invisible SPF, which can be used with all skin tones.”
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2. Always double cleanse
Possibly one of the most important skincare rules ever; Sarah explains that “Double cleansing thoroughly removes impurities from the skin's dirt, oil, bacteria in a gentle way.” Most importantly, Sarah tells us, you need to start with “an oil-based cleanser or cleansing water on dry skin to remove makeup.” Then, you should follow with a hydrating cleanser to remove any additional residue and remaining dirt.”
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3. Layer up, on lightweight products
Christine told us that the most fundamental rule of Korean beauty is lightweight layers of hydration, as opposed to “Applying one thick cream to moisturize the skin.” She tells us to think of it, just as we would layer clothes: “Liken this to wearing several layers during the winter to keep warm vs. wearing one chunky sweater or coat.” Christine tells us that this is why “every skincare routine should start with a hydrating toner (not astringent) as this is the first step of hydration.” They recommend using a lightweight oil-free moisturizer as Sarah says “you can also use this as your serum step before a heavier moisturizer for those with drier skin types or in the winter months when skin tends to be drier.”
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4. Exfoliate… gently
Gentle exfoliation is another vital step in the K-beauty skincare routine and Christine reminds us that we have to take serious care when exfoliating, and to avoid granule scrubs entirely. Christine explains that “K-beauty is all about being gentle with your skin and minimizing any rubbing, pulling and friction (never pull always pat pat pat!)” which is why she recommends “gentle exfoliation vs. physical exfoliation,” as it can be too abrasive on the skin. More specifically, she recommends “Using chemical exfoliants like AHAs once or a few times a week to resurface skin.” Christine and Sarah also love to use an overnight sleeping mask that contains a chemical exfoliant that combines two things all skin types need: exfoliation (via pore refining AHAs) and hydration.” And they reassure us that you shouldn’t worry “If you notice any pilling at all,this is a natural byproduct of the exfoliation process which is quickly gone with a quick rinse in the morning.”
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5. Never underestimate the power of a sheet mask
You’ve probably seen hundreds of sheet mask selfies on your IG feed, but they’re not just for a funny, slightly creepy selfies, they’re a foundation of Korean skincare routines. According to Christine, “Sheet masks have always been a staple in Korean beauty as they originated from South Korea.” What makes them so magical is that the sheet “Provides high concentrations of good-for-skin ingredients like hyaluronic acid and other actives while also preventing them from evaporating, locking the serum in place” explains Christine.