Journey to Glass Skin: Decoding the 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine

Korean skincare has been a hit online for a while now. It’s all about mixing traditional methods with new ideas, often using stuff you’d find in your kitchen, to make your skin super smooth and shiny.

“Glass skin” refers to skin that’s incredibly smooth, even-toned, and has a beautiful, shiny appearance. It’s a term that originated in Korea, where skincare focuses on using hydrating products to strengthen the skin’s barrier. This helps the skin retain moisture and stops harmful stuff from getting in, which ultimately helps it look younger and more radiant.

People love the way it makes their skin glow, and we’ve got an article to help you get that natural glass skin look.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the 10-Step Korean skincare routine for achieving that coveted glass skin:

Step 1: Oil-based Cleansers

Oil-based cleansers are great for removing makeup, sunscreen, and other oil-based impurities from your skin. They work by attracting and dissolving the oils on your skin, making it easier to wash away impurities without drying out your skin. So, if you want to get rid of dirt and sebum from your pores without stripping away your skin’s natural oils, an oil-based cleanser is the way to go!

Step 2: Double Cleansing 

While the first step includes washing off the dirt with an oil-based cleanser, the second step involves using a foaming cleanser to gently wash away sweat, dirt, and any remaining impurities, ensuring thorough cleansing without stripping the skin’s natural oils. This double-cleansing method helps to ensure that your skin is clean and prepped for the next steps in your skincare routine.

Step 3: Exfoliation

Exfoliants, like face scrubs, peels or serums are skincare products that help remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother and brighter skin underneath. It’s important to start with gentle exfoliants and use them sparingly, typically once or twice a week, to avoid irritation or over-exfoliation. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of exfoliation without damaging your skin’s barrier or causing inflammation.

Step 4: Toning 

After cleansing and exfoliating, your skin’s pH balance can be disrupted. That’s where toning comes in. A gentle and alcohol-free face toner helps to restore the skin’s natural acidic state and replenish lost moisture. Look for toners with hydrating and soothing ingredients to calm the skin and prepare it for the next steps in your skincare routine. Avoid toners containing alcohol or other drying agents, as they can further strip the skin and cause irritation. Instead, opt for products that promote hydration and balance.

Step 5: Essence

While you may not be familiar with it, essence is a key component of Korean skincare. It’s a lightweight, watery product that’s different from serums, designed to deeply hydrate and protect the skin. Using essence regularly can help maintain skin hydration and improve its overall health, leading to better results in your skincare routine. So, don’t overlook this essential step for achieving radiant and healthy skin!

Step 6: Treatment

In Korean skincare, the sixth step involves treating specific skin concerns, such as breakouts, dullness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and more. A glass skin serum is formulated with highly concentrated ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin, targeting your specific skincare needs. Whether you’re dealing with acne, uneven skin tone, or signs of aging, using a targeted serum can help address these issues and enhance the overall appearance and health of your skin. So, incorporate a serum tailored to your skin concerns for maximum effectiveness in achieving that coveted glass skin look!

Step 7: Sheet Maska

Sheet masks are soaked in a serum rich in beneficial ingredients, and they’re made of biodegradable material. When you apply a sheet mask, the serum penetrates deeply into your skin, providing intense hydration and nourishment. While sheet masks can be a fantastic addition to your skincare routine, you don’t need to use them every day. Incorporating them once or twice a week can still provide significant benefits without overwhelming your skin.

Step 8: Under Eye Creams

Eye creams are just as important as face creams in your skincare routine. The skin around the eyes is delicate and prone to dryness, so using a dedicated eye cream is essential for keeping it moisturized and free from dryness. Additionally, eye creams can help stimulate blood circulation, reduce puffiness, and minimize the appearance of dark circles and fine lines. By incorporating an eye cream into your skincare routine, you can ensure that the delicate skin around your eyes stays nourished, hydrated, and healthy.

Step 9: Moisturizer 

Face moisturizer plays a crucial role in strengthening the skin barrier and shielding it from external aggressors. By improving the skin’s ability to retain moisture, moisturizers create a protective barrier that helps prevent moisture loss and keeps the skin hydrated. Additionally, moisturized skin is better able to absorb other skincare products, maximizing their effectiveness. Just like face cream, using a face moisturizer is essential, particularly during drier seasons, to ensure that your skin remains hydrated, nourished, and healthy.

Step 10: Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a crucial component of Korean skincare, especially if you’re aiming for that coveted glass skin look. Protecting your skin from sun damage is essential for maintaining its health and preventing premature aging. Nowadays, many makeup products also come with built-in SPF, providing added protection against harmful UV rays. By incorporating SPF into your skincare routine, whether through sunscreen or SPF-infused makeup, you can safeguard your skin and maintain its youthful glow while working towards achieving that radiant glass skin complexion!