Although the 10-step skincare program that is typical of Korean beauty may be too time-consuming for guys who prefer to keep things simple, we do recognize that this is the case. However, it is still possible to blend K-beauty techniques into a succinct routine that is equally as effective. In order to produce a streamlined version of the Korean skincare regimen designed exclusively for men’s complexion, we sat down with Charlotte Cho, a certified esthetician, co-creator of Soko Glam, and founder of Then I Met You Skincare. See the detailed plan for guys, which is provided below.

WHAT IS KOREAN SKINCARE?

Long regarded as the epicenter of skincare research, Korea is credited with popularizing compounds like green tea, egg white, and snail mucus (yes, it actually works as a hydrator). In fact, there are so many breakthroughs coming out of the eastern state that it is nearly hard to follow a standard three-step exfoliate, cleanse, and moisturize routine; hence, the far more extensive approach that everyone is talking about.

Furthermore, because many Koreans believe that you can read your destiny in your face, they spend time making sure their skin is as healthy as it can be. This needs a 360-degree strategy that tackles all issues, including hydration, nutrition, and protection, just to name a few.

 

Charlotte Cho, co-founder of Soko Glam, an online marketplace that specializes in Korean items, says adopting a Korean-inspired skincare regimen also helps to transform your perspective from viewing taking care of your skin as a duty into it being a pampering session you can look forward to. It’s more of a lifestyle movement, similar to the recent increase in old-school barbershops, but with the benefit of wonderful skin.

THE 10-step KOREAN SKINCARE ROUTINE

The conventional 10-step Korean skincare regimen is surprisingly simple once it becomes a part of your daily routine, despite the fact that it may seem excessive at first (and enjoyable). Here are the proper items, in the right order, and instructions on how to apply them all for a K-pop star-worthy face.

STEP 1: OIL CLEANSE

Fortunately, the first step in the complete Korean skincare regimen has already influenced western thinking. Oil cleansers, as the name implies, may dissolve oil-based material such as pollution, sebum, and sunscreen, in contrast to water-based options. They frequently have a natural aroma, a calming texture, and are nutritious, moisturizing, and deeply relaxing.

What It Does: Rids the skin of dirt, debris and bacteria.

How To Do It: Morning and night, worked in with a deep massage.

STEP 2: WATER CLEANSER

Nearly as long as the Koreans, dermatologists, estheticians, and facialists have promoted double washing. Oil dissolves oil, so it seems reasonable that you’d need another cleanser to get rid of any water-based contaminants. Look for soft cleansers like milk that remove impurities from the skin without stripping it.

What It Does: Removes any remaining water-based dirt and debris.

How To Do It: Morning and night, in gentle circular motions.

 

STEP 3: EXFOLIATOR

The majority of males are now aware of what this step performs, but did you know there are several kinds? If you have a beard or have dry skin, physical exfoliators are abrasive scrubs with components like salt, grains, or walnuts that are harder on the skin. For everyone else, adhere to a chemical exfoliator that contains an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), such as glycolic, lactic, or mandelic acid, to remove dead skin more thoroughly.

What It Does: Removes dead skin and allows the following products to absorb more efficiently.

How To Do It: Twice a week in the evening, focusing on problem areas.

 

STEP 4: ESSENCE

Essences are one of the most popular elements of Korean skincare because they moisturize the deeper layers of the dermis and prepare the skin for the following phase. According to Cho, “These are watery lotions or thin gels with more concentrated active ingredients; they are frequently prepared with a larger quantity of hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and other natural extracts.”

What It Does: An active lotion that hydrates and strengthens the skin.

How To Do It: Morning and night, use a small amount and pat it on the face and neck.

 

STEP 5: SERUMS

Serums provide the foundation for beautiful skin and are the titans of the skincare field. They have the biggest amount of active chemicals in them, which can treat everything from dehydration to aging. You must determine what you want because skincare becomes more specialized at this point. large pores Niacinamide. vitamin C for dull skin Wrinkles? Take the peptide complicated route.

What It Does: Directly treat problem areas or infuse the whole face with active ingredients.

How To Do It: Morning and night, use a small amount and pat it on the face and neck or affected areas.

STEP 6: SHEET MASKS

The first sheet masks were made in Korea, where paper has been used in this method for hundreds of years. The idea of utilizing a barrier to force humectants—ingredients that help bind water to the skin—and other substances into the face is still the same, but technology has advanced. There are currently sheet masks made of tissue, hydrogel, and bio-cellulose, each with their unique benefits and effectiveness. They are also fantastic for Instagram selfies.

What It Does: Prolonged contact with your skin allows concentrated ingredients to be fully absorbed.

How To Do It: Twice a week, smooth onto clean skin and relax for 20 minutes, then pat in the remaining essence.

 

STEP 7: EYE CREAM

Eye creams are another prevalent procedure in the west that give skin-strengthening proteins like peptides to the delicate periorbital area, which is the area directly around your eyes. There are eye gels and eye creams in this category, which are great for people with younger skin or those who want to reduce puffiness (ideal for older skin looking to tone, tighten and lift). Unfortunately, dark circles are largely inherited, but a brightening eye gel can assist to lighten the area.

What It Does: Hydrates and brightens the eye area.

How To Do It: Morning and night, use your ring finger to gently tap it around the entire orbital bone.

 

STEP 8: EMULSION

Not familiar with it? You probably aren’t alone, so don’t worry. Emulsions are thin moisturizers that are especially good for the skin of men. However, they can also be preferred by residents of humid areas who don’t want the occlusive properties of heavy creams. Similar to moisturizers, an emulsion adds its unique blend of humectants, vitamins, and actives while sealing in the benefits of the previous seven processes. However, unlike moisturizers, they can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin because of a molecular structure that is normally smaller.

What It Does: Nourishes and binds moisture to the skin.

How To Do It: Morning and night, pat into the face and neck.

STEP 9: MOISTURISER

The purpose of moisturizers, which come in a variety of forms including gels, creams, and oils, is to lock in the previous nine processes. Moisturizers gained popularity because they preserved the skin’s moisture levels by trapping the water in the dermis to prevent evaporation. The most well-liked skincare category has evolved throughout time, mostly focusing on dry, dehydrated, and aging complexions.

What It Does: Seals in moisture to smooth and plump the skin.

How To Do It: Morning and night, pat into the face and neck.

 

STEP 10: SPF

In terms of Korean skincare, it is nearly sacrilegious to do the remaining nine steps but omit the final one. All exterior skin issues, from pigmentation and dryness to premature aging, are mostly caused by sun damage. In Korea, where people cherish having practically “cloudless” skies, the sun is considered a threat. They prepare all of their defenses against it, including visors, sunglasses, gloves, and, most importantly, SPF.

What It Does: Protects the skin from UVA and UVB damage.

How To Do It: Reapply throughout the day on the face, neck, shoulders and ears.