Korean skincare is a big deal in Asia, and there’s a lot of pressure to have perfect skin. In fact, girls and boys are both taught from a very early age to properly care for their skin. It’s a significant part of K-beauty culture that’s all about preventive care and techniques that keep skin glowing, smooth, and youthful.

KOREAN SKINCARE

These 10 Korean skincare habits are perfect for every day, and for those days when your skin needs a quick fix. They’ll take your skin from blah to glowing in a flash!

KOREAN SKINCARE STEAM FACIAL MASSAGE

If you’ve ever been to South Korea, you’ve probably noticed that there’s a skincare clinic on every block. It’s as easy (and affordable) to get a facial massage as it is a manicure. 

Why do Korean women love steam facial massages? Well, massage increases blood flow to the skin’s surface and improves circulation, which results in a dewy, glowing complexion. And isn’t that what we all want?

To take advantage of this technique at home, use circular and tapping motions to massage your face in the shower. Work in upward and outward motions and use an oil cleanser if you need extra hydration.

KOREAN SKINCARE EXFOLIATION

Korean women are known for maintaining smooth, wrinkle-free skin, even as they age. What’s their secret? They exfoliate their skin regularly using gentle methods that don’t cause irritation.

Exfoliating removes the top layer of dead skin from the surface of your face, exposing brand-new youthful skin underneath. It also clears the way for your other skincare products to penetrate more effectively.

One of the easiest ways to exfoliate without causing irritation is to use a nubby washcloth to massage your skin in circular, upward motions each day. Korean women also love botanical and fruit acid exfoliators that come in the form of toners and serums.

KOREAN SKINCARE CHARCOAL SHEET MASKS

When it comes to the most popular K-beauty skin care products, sheet masks are right at the top of the list. Who wouldn’t love putting a sheet mask on their face for 10 or 15 minutes while they kick back and relax?

There are sheet masks for every skin type and need, but charcoal is one ingredient that just about anyone can benefit from. It detoxifies the skin, keeping breakouts at bay. It’s also soothing, so it tames redness and inflammation. As an added bonus, charcoal is also a gentle exfoliator.

KOREAN SKINCARE ESSENCE

This is an excellent habit to incorporate into your daily routine during the colder months when the skin is especially dry. Essences are super gentle, liquid, and filled with vital skin nutrients and hydration.

Apply an essence right after cleansing to begin rehydrating and add nourishment to the skin. Then, apply your serum, and finally, your moisturizer. You’ll notice an immediate improvement in your skin’s elasticity and glow.

KOREAN OVERNIGHT SLEEPING MASK

It’s called beauty sleep for a reason! Your skin really does heal while you sleep, and that’s when your skin cells turn over, so it’s the perfect time to apply heavy-hitting moisturizers that will wake up a dull complexion and bring back your glow.

Apply an overnight sleeping mask in place of your nighttime moisturizer to pamper your skin during sleep. When you wake up, your skin will be bright, glowing, and ultra-radiant!

KOREAN SKINCARE TEA

Have you ever eaten in a Korean restaurant and been served an unusual, nutty-flavored tea? It was probably made from roasted barley. This popular beverage is served in Korea from birth for its skin fortifying and overall health benefits.

Barley tea is full of beneficial antioxidants to combat the signs of aging. It’s also been shown to improve blood circulation, which brings a healthy glow to the skin. It might even support your weight loss efforts, so you really can’t go wrong!

KOREAN SKINCARE AMPOULES

What’s an ampoule? Well, you could think of it as a serum on steroids! Ampoules contain highly concentrated active ingredients with huge payoff. 

These skincare powerhouses repair, recharge, and rebalance your skin’s cells quickly. You only need a few drops to target major issues like dullness, hyperpigmentation, and even acne.

KOREAN MOUTH EXERCISES

It may sound a bit silly, but doing mouth exercises every day improves circulation in the face, which brightens the skin tone. All you have to do is say A-E-I-O-U in a very exaggerated way to stretch all the muscles around your mouth. Try repeating it three times each day for the most benefit.

KOREAN SKINCARE DOUBLE CLEANSE

You may not have time to double cleanse before you rush out the door in the morning but do make it a priority at night. In Korea, double cleansing is considered routine. Everyone just does it because it’s considered necessary.

Start by using an oil-based cleanser to break down dirt, makeup, and oil on the skin without unnecessary tugging. Then, use a gentle water-based cleanser to get your skin ultra-clean without stripping away essential moisture.

KOREAN SKINCARE PROTECTION

It’s never too early to start practicing preventive skincare. Don’t wait until you begin to see signs of fine lines or hyper-pigmentation before you start taking measures to protect your skin from the sun. In Korea, SPF is a staple that’s used all year round. Protective hats and clothing are also considered essential.

These Korean skincare habits only take a moment, so they’re easy to incorporate into your daily routine. You don’t have to do every single thing on the list every day! Do some experimenting and see which habits give you the most amazing results.

WHAT IS YOUR KOREAN SKINCARE ROUTINE?