K-Beauty skin routines

Korean Skin Care Routine

Korean skin care is all about layering lightweight, nourishing products to achieve a healthy, hydrated glow—often called “glass skin.” Each step builds on the last to gently cleanse, balance, and deeply moisturize the skin. You can follow all 10 steps or customize based on your skin type and goals.

1. Oil Cleanser (Step 1 of Double Cleanse)

What it does: Dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. How to use: Start with dry hands and a dry face. Gently massage an oil cleanser or cleansing balm over your skin in circular motions for about 30–60 seconds, focusing on areas with makeup or sunscreen. Add a bit of water to emulsify, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Pro tip: Use daily—even if you don’t wear makeup—to remove sunscreen and impurities that water-based cleansers can’t reach.

2. Water-Based Cleanser (Step 2 of Double Cleanse)

What it does: Removes any leftover residue from the oil cleanse, along with sweat and dirt. How to use: Apply a small amount of gel or foam cleanser to damp skin. Massage gently for 30 seconds, then rinse with lukewarm water. Pro tip: Look for low-pH cleansers that maintain your skin’s barrier and prevent dryness or tightness.

3. Exfoliator

What it does: Smooths texture, brightens tone, and clears dead skin cells or clogged pores. How to use: 2–3 times per week, after cleansing, apply a gentle chemical exfoliant (like an AHA/BHA toner) or a mild physical scrub. Massage or swipe lightly, avoiding harsh rubbing, and rinse if needed. Pro tip: Over-exfoliating can irritate the skin—especially when using actives like retinol or vitamin C. Stick to a few times a week.

4. Toner

What it does: Balances the skin’s pH and adds a first layer of hydration to help other products absorb better. How to use: After cleansing (or exfoliating), pour toner into your hands or onto a cotton pad and gently pat onto your face and neck. Pro tip: Choose hydrating toners with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, green tea, or rose water to prep skin for the next steps.

5. Essence

What it does: Boosts hydration and enhances absorption of serums and moisturizers. Essences are lightweight, watery treatments unique to Korean skin care. How to use: Dispense a few drops into your palms and gently press into your skin until fully absorbed. Pro tip: Layering essence daily helps strengthen the skin barrier and improve overall texture over time.

6. Serum or Ampoule

What it does: Delivers targeted ingredients to address specific skin concerns such as dullness, fine lines, or uneven tone. How to use: Apply 2–3 drops to your face and neck after essence. Gently press or pat into the skin to maximize absorption. Pro tip: Choose serums with ingredients that match your needs—like niacinamide for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration, or snail mucin for repair.

7. Sheet Mask

What it does: Provides an intensive moisture and treatment boost with a high concentration of active ingredients. How to use: Apply the mask to clean, toned skin and leave it on for 10–20 minutes. Remove and gently pat any remaining essence into the skin—no rinsing needed. Pro tip: Use 1–3 times a week for extra hydration and glow. Store in the fridge for a cooling effect.

8. Eye Cream

What it does: Hydrates and protects the delicate under-eye area, helping to minimize puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines. How to use: Using your ring finger, lightly tap a pea-sized amount around the orbital bone and under the eyes until absorbed. Pro tip: Apply eye cream both morning and night to keep the area smooth and bright.

9. Moisturizer

What it does: Locks in hydration and seals in all previous layers of skincare. How to use: Apply an even layer of cream, gel, or lotion over your face and neck. Massage gently until fully absorbed. Pro tip: Use a lighter gel moisturizer for oily skin and a richer cream for dry or mature skin.

10. Sunscreen (AM Only)

What it does: Protects your skin from harmful UV rays, prevents premature aging, and maintains a bright, even complexion. How to use: As the final step in your morning routine, apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors. Pro tip: Korean sunscreens are known for their lightweight, skin-friendly textures—perfect for layering under makeup.

Tip: At night, replace sunscreen with a sleeping mask or night cream for extra nourishment while you rest.

Best Korean Skin Care Products

Ready to level up your K-beauty routine? Ulta Beauty carries the essentials for every step—plus lots of fun extras. Here’s a quick guide to top products in each category:

Best Korean Cleansers (Double Cleanse musts):

• BANILA CO Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (oil-based)
• COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (water-based)

Best Korean Toners:

• Peach & Lily The Good Acids Pore Toner
• ANUA Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner

Best Korean Serums & Treatments:

• Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum
• Peach Slices Snail Rescue Intensive Serum

Best Korean Moisturizers:

• Peach & Lily Matcha Pudding Antioxidant Cream
• COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream

Best Korean Masks and Extras:

• TONYMOLY Sheet Masks (all the self-care vibes)
• COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (for skin that wants a little backup)

With these guest-favorite brands and ingredients, you can mix, match, and create a Korean skin care ritual that feels totally you. Glowy, healthy-looking skin is just an "Add to Bag" away.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 10 step Korean skin care routine?

1. Oil cleanser – removes makeup and sunscreen.
2. Water-based cleanser – washes away sweat and impurities.
3. Exfoliator – clears dead skin cells for smooth texture.
4. Toner – balances pH and preps skin for hydration.
5. Essence – delivers lightweight hydration and active ingredients.
6. Serum or ampoule – targets specific skin concerns like dullness or wrinkles.
7. Sheet mask – provides intensive moisture and treatment.
8. Eye cream – nourishes and protects the delicate under-eye area.
9. Moisturizer – locks in hydration.

• Sunscreen (AM only) – shields skin from UV damage.

What is a Korean skin care routine for men?

A Korean skin care routine for men follows the same principles: gentle cleansing, deep hydration, and consistent sun protection. Many K-beauty brands offer lightweight, non-greasy formulas ideal for men’s thicker, oilier skin. Start with a double cleanse, apply toner and essence, then finish with moisturizer and SPF during the day.

How to get Korean glass skin?

“Glass skin” refers to a clear, smooth, intensely hydrated complexion that reflects light—like glass. Achieving it takes regular exfoliation, layering hydrating products like toners and essences, and using brightening serums with ingredients such as niacinamide or vitamin C. Consistency and moisture are key.

Why is Korean skin care so good?

Korean skin care stands out for its innovative ingredients, gentle formulations, and focus on prevention rather than correction. The K-beauty industry invests heavily in research and product development, leading to high-performing formulas at accessible prices.

Where to start with Korean skin care?

If you’re new to K-beauty, start with a simple 4-step routine: double cleanse (oil + water-based), apply toner, use essence or serum, and finish with moisturizer and sunscreen. Once you find what your skin loves, you can add exfoliators, eye cream, or masks.

Does Korean skin care work for everyone?

Yes—Korean skin care focuses on balance and barrier support, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive or acne-prone skin. You can customize your steps and ingredients to fit your needs, from lightweight hydration for oily skin to rich creams for dry skin.

What is the difference between Japanese and Korean skin care routine?

Both Japanese and Korean skin care emphasize hydration and prevention, but K-beauty routines tend to use more steps and layering, while J-beauty often focuses on simplicity and minimalism. Korean formulas may feature trend-driven ingredients and textures, whereas Japanese skin care leans toward traditional ingredients.

Discover our Japanese Skin Care Routine guide for a more details.

Can I buy Korean skin care products at Ulta Beauty?

Yes! You can find a fantastic selection of the best and most popular Korean skin care brands right here at Ulta Beauty. Explore our K-beauty page online or visit us in-store to find everything you need to start your Korean skin care journey.

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