Koreans are well-known for their glass skin, and it makes us wonder, “Can we ever achieve that kind of skin without being Korean?”. A lot might even think that it could be a “Korean thing” to have perfect and luminous skin, like, you have to Korean to inherit such enviable skin! Pssst, here’s the answer. Have you ever heard of the Korean 10-Step Skincare Routine? That’sThat’s their secret to their gorgeous skin desired by everyone across the world.

Why is it called a 10-step routine? Well, for obvious reasons, it includes a 10-step method of applying or layering skincare products. Now, this might sound tedious to some or could be exciting for skincare lovers, but we’re here to let you know that this is a form of self-care too. 

What is the 10-step? 

1. Oil cleanser
2. Foam or cream cleanser
3. Toner
4. Essence
5. Emulsion
6. Serum
7. Sheet Mask
8. Eye Cream
9. Moisturiser
10. Sunscreen

Now here’s something you should know- these steps are pretty flexible, and you can change them up or even skip one or two steps depending on your skin type and what your skin is susceptible of. So, let’s begin and break down each step.

Step 1: Cleansing…twice

You might have noticed this on the 10-step list above-step 1 and step 2 are basically the same. But why do we need to cleanse our face twice? The first cleansing uses an oil cleanser, which works as removal of SPF, sebum, and pollutants. Then comes the second cleanser, the cream or foam cleanser to get rid of sweat and dirt. So, this makes sense as to why you need to do a double cleanse. For a deep and thorough cleanse on your skin to remove any impurities and residue.

Step 2: Toner

We have been taught that toners are used to remove any residue of gunk and dirt off our skin. In the Korean skincare routine, toners are the opposite of that. They are typically a thin layer of moisture meant to regulate your pH and soften your skin, preparing it for the steps that will follow.

Korean toners are not the typical toners that are sold in the western market. They are made of botanical ingredients that address similar concerns. You can apply them with your hands and pat into the skin, or use with a cotton ball or pad. But since your skin reacts happily to the touch of warm hands, we like to opt for the former whenever we can.

Step 3: Essence

The essence is the second layer after the toner. Instead of applying heavy products on the skin, Koreans believe in layering products to allow the skin to breathe and avoids clogging the pores. Think of baking a Napoleon cake, or a Mille crepes; it requires patience and a lot of layering to create the perfect texture and fluffiness. Your skin, too, needs the layering so it is not overwhelmed with heavy and excessive product.

An essence is thinner in texture compared to toner and can feel more watery and diluted. It works its way to penetrate the skin at a deeper level and aid with the absorption of the products to come.

Step 4: Emulsion

Glass skin equals to skin that is super moisturised and hydrated. So, this doesn’t come as a surprise when another layer of moisture is included in this 10-step routine. 

The emulsion layer is often just a bit thicker than the previous layers, starting to build the richness and sheen we are going for in the final result. These products are often packed with botanical extracts and other power-packed ingredients. However, some skin types may need more moisture than others. This is good news for super dry skin types because who’s complaining when you’re giving your desert-dry skin more moisture! 

Step 5: Serum

If you have not included serum into your usual skincare routine, you’re missing out. A serum is a highly concentrated product, almost like an oil-based product. This step enhances the skin texture, adding more goodness moisture to your thirsty and parched skin. This is also a good time to throw in a little face massage while working the serum into your skin.

Step 6: Sheet Mask

We know, we know. Doing a sheet mask could easily take 15-20 minutes of your precious time but hey, two questions to ask yourself:

1. Do you want glass skin?
2. Do you want glass skin?

If your answer to the first question is already yes, just go ahead with it. We have all done sheet masks and we know how juicy that packet holding the mask is. That is all serum, my babes. Although the sheet mask step is optional, you might want to drench your skin with as much moisture and hydration as you can get to achieve that glass skin you’ve been dreaming of. Also, don’t waste the excess serum at the bottom of the packaging, use it to apply generously on your neck, decollete and even hands and legs. I mean, why stop at the face, am I right?

Step 7: Eye cream

No offence but, if you are only 30 years old but you have crow’sfeet, you instantly add a few years to your appearance. It’sIt’s never too early to introduce eye creams to your skincare routine and this is why it’s in this 10-step routine.

Eye cream is designed to moisturise the ultra-thin skin around your eyes where crow’sfeet and fine lines are bound to appear. However, if you use eye cream regularly before they show up, you’ll see a marked difference in how old you look.

Step 8: Moisturiser

Can you believe with all that prior steps of moisturising the face and so on, we are only applying the real deal here? How is Mrs. Moisturizer only making an appearance now!

Moisturisers work as an occlusive layer to seal the deal. Yes, it’s the final boss you encounter in the Moisturising Game. The thick layer is what locks the deal to all your prior steps. 

Step 9: Sunscreen (For AM)

Ladies, if you think you only need sunscreen when you go to the beach, I have some news. In case you don’t know, UV rays can reach you inside too. So, even you’re feeling safe and protected indoors, you are still exposed to UVA and UVB rays. 

So, always apply sunscreen and reapply every few hours for better effect.

Step 10: Sleeping Masks (For PM)

Surprise! Didn’t think there’s an extra step that (shocking!) includes another layer of moisture, huh? What is a sleeping mask?

It’s like a night cream that does significant repairs to your skin while you go to sleep. It’s also another layer of moisture you want to slather all over your face before you go to bed so you’ll wake up to that glass skin.

So, there it is. You’ve come to the end of this 10-step routine. It sounds exhausting and time-consuming, doesn’t it? Believe it or not, all these could be done under 15 minutes once you get the hang of it. And, if you can’t even spend 15 minutes of your day to lovingly look at yourself in the mirror while applying these products, are you even practising self-love and self-care? Give your skin and yourself the TLC and watch your glass skin glow!