FAQ - Questions and Answers for Korean Skin Care Routine
1. What is a Korean skincare routine?
Answer : Korean skincare routine is a multi-step skincare regimen (usually 10) that aims to improve the health and appearance of the skin by nourishing, moisturizing, and protecting it. It relies on products with specific formulations and adapted application techniques.
2. What are the 10 classic steps of the Korean routine?
Answer : The 10 most common steps in the Korean skincare routine are:
- Oil-based cleanser (makeup remover oil): to remove makeup and oil-soluble impurities.
- Water-based cleanser (gel or foam): to purify the skin and remove makeup remover oil residue.
- Exfoliating : to remove dead skin cells and refine skin texture.
- Toner : To balance the skin's pH after cleansing and prepare the skin to better absorb subsequent products.
- Essence : a moisturizing and nourishing product, often rich in active ingredients.
- Serum/ampoule : to treat specific skin problems (such as wrinkles, spots, acne).
- Sheet mask : used occasionally for a dose of hydration or targeted treatment.
- Eye cream : to treat dark circles, bags or wrinkles around the eyes.
- Moisturizer : to seal in moisture and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Sunscreen : Essential protection against UV rays to prevent premature aging and skin damage.
3. Why is double purification important in Korean routine?
Answer : Double cleansing (oil cleanser + water-based cleanser) helps to thoroughly remove impurities and makeup residue from the skin. The oil-based cleanser removes oil-soluble products (like makeup and sunscreen), while the water-based cleanser removes dirt, sweat, and excess oil, leaving skin clean without being stripped.
4. What is an essence and how to use it?
Answer : Essence is a slightly watery product, rich in moisturizing and nourishing actives. It falls somewhere between a toner and a serum in your routine. It is typically used after toner, gently patting onto the skin to boost hydration and prepare the skin for the next treatment. Essence can also have targeted effects, such as brightening the complexion or improving skin texture.
5. Can we skip steps in the Korean routine?
Answer : Yes, it is possible to adapt the routine according to your needs and skin type. For example, some people do not need to exfoliate every day or do a sheet mask regularly. The idea is to opt for a personalized routine that meets the needs of your skin while respecting the essence of the key steps.
6. Is the Korean routine suitable for all skin types?
Answer : Yes, the Korean routine can be adapted to all skin types, but it is important to choose the right products based on your skin type and specific concerns. For example, for dry skin, you will want to choose highly moisturizing products, while for oily skin, you will want to opt for lighter and purifying products.
7. How important is sun protection in the Korean skincare routine?
Answer : Sun protection is the most crucial step in the Korean routine because it protects the skin from UV rays, which are responsible for premature aging, wrinkles, pigmentation spots, and the risk of skin cancer. In Korea, sun care is considered essential even on cloudy days or indoors because UV rays affect the skin all year round.
8. What is a serum or ampoule in the Korean routine?
Answer : A serum or ampoule is a highly concentrated treatment that targets specific skin concerns, such as wrinkles, dark spots, acne or dehydration. These products are generally thicker and richer in active ingredients than essences. They should be applied after the essence and before the moisturizer.
9. Is the Korean routine very expensive?
Answer : Korean skincare products come in a wide range of prices, from very affordable to more luxurious. What can make the Korean routine a bit more expensive is the number of products used. However, there are also cheap alternatives that are effective, it all depends on your research and priorities.
10. How to know which product to choose in the Korean routine?
Answer : Choosing the right products requires knowing your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and your specific skin concerns (wrinkles, acne, spots, dehydration, etc.). Once you’ve identified these factors, you can look for products that are tailored to your needs. For example, for dry skin, choose nourishing and moisturizing products, and for oily skin, opt for light and balancing products.
11. Is Korean skincare routine really necessary?
Answer : The Korean skincare routine is based on the idea that healthy skin requires a gentle, multi-step approach to effectively nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin. While not strictly necessary, it can be beneficial if you’re looking to improve your skin’s texture, prevent signs of aging, or address specific concerns. The key is to customize the routine to your skin type and needs.
12. Can we skip some steps in the Korean routine?
Answer : Yes, the Korean skincare routine can be tailored to your needs. For example, some people don't do steps like exfoliation or sheet masks every day, or they simplify the routine depending on the season or their skin type. The important thing is not to neglect the cleansing and sun protection steps.
13. Is the Korean routine suitable for sensitive skin?
Answer : Yes, the Korean routine can be adapted to sensitive skin, but it is essential to choose gentle products that are fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and free of irritating ingredients. Many Korean brands offer ranges specifically designed for sensitive skin, with soothing and hydrating formulations.
14. Is double purification really necessary?
Answer : Double cleansing (oil cleanser + water-based cleanser) is a mainstay of the Korean routine because it removes makeup thoroughly, even deep down. If you don't wear makeup or sunscreen, you can opt for just one cleanser, but if you wear makeup or sunscreen, it's recommended to follow this method to avoid clogging pores and keep your skin clean.
15. Do I absolutely have to use a tonic?
Answer : Toning is a step that helps balance the skin's pH after cleansing. While not essential for everyone, it is highly recommended in the Korean routine because it prepares the skin to better absorb the following treatments and can provide additional benefits, such as hydration, smoothness, or illumination.
16. What are the most important products in the Korean routine?
Answer : The two most essential products are a cleanser (to thoroughly clean the skin) and a sunscreen (to protect the skin from UV rays). Then, hydration is key to maintaining healthy skin, so a toner, essence, and moisturizer are often considered must-have steps.
17. Can you use Korean products if you have oily skin?
Answer : Yes, there are a wide range of Korean products specifically designed for oily skin. Lightweight, non-comedogenic products, such as gels or lotions, are ideal for controlling excess oil without drying out the skin. It is also important to choose gentle but effective cleansers to regulate oil production and prevent breakouts.
18. Is Korean skincare routine suitable for mature skin?
Answer : Absolutely! The Korean skincare routine can be especially beneficial for mature skin thanks to its products rich in anti-aging, hydrating and nourishing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, antioxidants and plant extracts. These products help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles and stimulate cell turnover.
19. Do I really need to use a fabric mask?
Answer : Sheet masks aren’t a mandatory step, but they can provide immediate benefits by deeply hydrating the skin and providing targeted care. If you’re looking to treat a specific issue, like dehydrated skin or spots, sheet masks can be a quick and effective solution. They’re often used once or twice a week.
20. What products should you choose for dehydrated skin?
Answer : For dehydrated skin, it is advisable to favor products rich in hyaluronic acid , glycerin , ceramides and other moisturizing ingredients. A hydrating essence or serum, followed by a rich and nourishing cream, is essential. Hydration is the key to restoring the skin's balance, so this step should not be neglected.
21. Can I mix Korean products with products from other brands?
Answer : Yes, you can mix Korean products with other products, but you have to be careful about the ingredients. Make sure there are no negative interactions between the products, for example, do not combine a chemical exfoliant with a product containing retinol to avoid irritation. It is best to test the products beforehand to avoid any reactions.
22. Are Korean products suitable for black and mixed skin?
Answer : Yes, Korean skincare is suitable for all skin types, including black and mixed-race skin. More and more Korean brands are offering products specifically formulated to address common concerns of dark skin, such as dark spots, uneven skin tone, and acne scars. The important thing is to choose products that are right for your skin type and needs.
23. Can I follow a Korean routine if I am in a hurry in the morning?
Answer : Yes, you can simplify your routine for busy mornings. For example, you can skip exfoliation and masks, but it’s essential to always cleanse your skin and apply sunscreen before going out. The idea is not to sacrifice sun protection, as it protects your skin from long-term damage.
