K-Beauty, originating from Korea’s obsession with healthy skin has fast become a global phenomenon that continues to take over the skin and beauty industry. The skincare philosophy, lifestyle even, focuses on prevention by working with the skin’s natural ecosystem by cleansing, hydrating, nourishing, and protecting it – allowing for ‘glass skin’. The skincare routine traditionally has 10 steps that help to improve the skin gradually to achieve lasting results. However, the routine can be easily adapted to a simpler routine.

Here is what you need to know about the ten steps:

CLEANSE

1. MAKE-UP REMOVER AND OIL CLEANSER (removes makeup and draws out oil-based impurities such as sebum, SPF, and pollution)
   This is the first step of the double cleanse routine. Oil-based cleansers gently remove any built-up products that are left on your skin, without stripping the natural oils from your face. Every morning and night, gently massage your oil cleanser into dry skin and add lukewarm water to emulsify, then rinse.
   
2. WATER-BASED CLEANSER (removes water-based – impurities such as sweat and dirt)
   The second step of the double cleanses routine. Water-based cleansers dissolve the water-based impurities such as dirt and sweat that your oil cleanser didn’t pick up. This helps to thoroughly remove any impurities that can cause breakouts. Every morning and night, apply to your damp face and neck and massage in a circular motion, then rinse with lukewarm water.
   
3. EXFOLIATOR (cleans debris from pores and removes dead skin cells)
   Physical and chemical exfoliation helps clean pores and slough off dead skin cells and build-up, priming your skin for a visibly brighter and smoother complexion. Exfoliating regularly also allows your other skin care products to absorb and work more efficiently. Exfoliating should start slow and sparingly, around 1-2 times per week to allow your skin to improve rather than stripping off a ton of layers.

PREP

4. TONER (balance moisture and pH levels of your skin)
   After cleansing and exfoliating, your skin’s pH balance needs to return to its natural acidic state. Toner helps remove any leftover residue from your cleanser, whilst also repairing your skin barrier to effectively absorb more nourishing products. Use a cotton pad to swipe all across your face or pat gently into your skin using your hands.

NOURISH

5. ESSENCE (hydrates and aids in cell turnover)
   Essences are lightweight and packed with a concentrated blend of hydrating, anti-aging, and complexion-enhancing ingredients. Sprinkle into hands and lightly pat into face and neck.
   
6. TREATMENTS (directly treats problem areas)
   Treatments such as boosters, serums, and ampoules are the ultimate skin perfecters, aimed to directly focus on treating problem skin. They are packed with highly concentrated ingredients, that target skin concerns such as acne, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. Gently tap into the skin, focusing on areas affected by skin concern.
   
7. SHEET MASKS (infuses your skin with concentrated essence) The key to sheet masks is the sheet, which when in prolonged contact with your face allows the skin to fully absorb the nutrients and moisture. Lay one on your face for 20 minutes while all the nutrients and ingredients absorb into your skin. Pat in any excess essence. Another step that is not required every single day.

8. EYE CREAM ( hydrates and prevents dark circles, puffiness, and crows feet)
   The skink around your eyes is the thinnest and most delicate on your face, and regularly using an intensive eye cream can keep dark circles, puffiness, and crow’s feet and bay. Eye creams are concentrated with beneficial ingredients and formulated to be extra gentle and non-irritating. Use your pinkie to gently tap around the entire orbital bone – avoiding the water line.

PROTECT

9. MOISTURISER (seals in moisture to plump and smooth skin)
   After layering all your products onto your skin, moisturiser will help seal all the products to plump up the skin and smooth fine lines and ensure the products don’t evaporate. Pat into your face and neck, morning and night, every day.
   
10. SPF (protects the skin from damaging UV rays)
    The last but possibly the most important step in the whole routine! Sunscreen should be your last step so you can shield your skin without being diluted by additional products. SPF is essential, even if you’re staying indoors all day. Sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent premature aging and skin cancer, so if your moisturiser doesn’t have an SPF built into it, add it! Gently pat into face and neck as the last step in your morning routine. Re-apply throughout the day.