Korean Skincare Steps for Clear Skin

Korean Skincare Layering Guide for Glass Skin

Unlock the secret to glass skin with our esthetician-approved Korean skincare layering guide. By applying each product in the right order, you maximize absorption and effectively target skin concerns like dullness, dehydration, and uneven tone.


Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser (PM Only)

Start your nighttime double-cleansing ritual with an oil cleanser to dissolve sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. Learn more about double cleansing here.

Our top pick: Krx Pre Cleansing Oil with Fermented Extracts

Acne-safe Korean oil cleanser

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

Follow with a gentle foam or gel cleanser to remove sweat, dirt, and any lingering impurities, leaving your skin fresh and balanced.

Our top pick: Dermathod Revive Cleansing Gel

non-foaming gentle Korean face wash for hydration and barrier support

Step 3: Exfoliation (2–3× Weekly)

Use a mild chemical or enzyme exfoliant to clear away dead cells, unclog pores, and brighten your complexion.

Our top pick: Dermathod Priming Peel Booster Pads

Leave-on Korean peel pads for acne, fine lines, and keratosis pilaris

Step 4: Mask (As Needed)

Hydrate and replenish with a sheet mask, especially after exfoliation, to flood your skin with moisture and active ingredients.

Our top pick: Neogenesis Beta Glucan Hydrogel Mask

Soothing mask with Beta-Glucan for hydration and repair

Step 5: Toner

Balance pH and prep your skin to absorb serum with a non-stripping toner.

Our top pick: Corthe Essential Soothing Facial Toner Pads

Clinical-grade Corthe skincare soothing facial toner pads with Centella Asiatica

Step 6: Serum or Ampoule

Layer on a targeted treatment—brightening, anti-aging, acne-fighting, etc.—to address your specific skin goals.

Our top pick: KrX All Day Glow Vitamin Serum

Korean antioxidant glass skin glow serum for dull skin - Hydrating Skin Care Products

Step 7: Moisturizer

Lock in all the nourishment with a moisturizer. Opt for a lightweight gel if you have oily skin, or a rich cream if your skin is dry or dehydrated.

Our top pick: Corthe Dermo Essential Rich M Cream

Amino acid K-Beauty skincare cream for sensitive skin types

Step 8: Sunscreen (AM Only)

Every morning, finish with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin from UV damage and premature aging. A sunscreen is non-negotiable if you want long-lasting glass skin results.

Our top pick: Pfect-A Solar Elixir Serum Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++

Acne safe broad spectrum sunscreen spf 50 pa+++ with advanced UV filters for sensitive skin

Each step builds on the last, ensuring your Korean skincare delivers its full benefits. Ready to glow? Explore our curated Korean skincare collection and start your journey to glass skin today. Shop our curated Korean skincare collection

 

FAQ Section

Q: Do I need to use all eight steps every day?

A: No, exfoliants and masks should only be used a few times a week, while other steps like cleansing, moisturizing, and SPF are daily essentials.

Q: Can oily skin benefit from layering skincare?

A: Absolutely. Korean skincare layering is customizable—oily skin types can focus on lightweight formulas that hydrate without clogging pores.

Q: Why is sunscreen so important in Korean skincare?

A: Sunscreen protects against UV damage, which is the number one cause of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, dullness, skin damage, and skin cancer.

Q: Can I skip toner?

A: Toner helps rebalance pH and prep your skin for serums. While not mandatory, it improves absorption and hydration.

Q: What makes Korean layering different from Western skincare?

A: Korean skincare focuses on gentle layering, barrier support, and hydration, while Western routines often rely on fewer steps and stronger actives.

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