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The famous Korean routine, explained in order — and which steps you can honestly skip.
My top pick: The ten-step routine is a menu, not a mandate. Most people who follow it daily are using about five of the steps.
1. 1. Oil Cleanser
First cleanse to remove makeup and SPF. Shop cleansing oil korean on Amazon →
2. 2. Water Cleanser
Second cleanse for the skin itself. Shop gentle foam cleanser korean on Amazon →
3. 3. Exfoliant
Two or three times a week only. Shop korean exfoliant gentle on Amazon →
4. 4. Toner
Hydrating rather than stripping. Shop korean hydrating toner on Amazon →
5. 5. Essence
The signature K-beauty hydration step. Shop korean essence on Amazon →
6. 6. Serum / Ampoule
The targeted treatment step. Shop korean ampoule serum on Amazon →
7. 7. Sheet Mask
Once or twice a week. Shop korean sheet mask on Amazon →
8. 8. Eye Cream
Light hydration around the eyes. Shop korean eye cream on Amazon →
9. 9. Moisturiser
Sealing the hydration layers. Shop korean moisturizer cream on Amazon →
10. 10. SPF (Morning)
The step that makes the rest worthwhile. Shop korean sunscreen spf on Amazon →
11. Which Steps to Skip
Being honest about what you will actually do. Shop korean skincare starter set on Amazon →
The bottom line
Double cleansing, essence, moisturiser, and SPF are the steps that matter. A routine you do five days a week beats a ten-step one you abandon by Thursday.