How to Start a Korean Skincare Routine: Beginner Step-by-Step Guide

When starting a skincare routine, simplicity is key. Avoid overwhelming your skin with too many products from the outset. Focus on building a basic routine and gradually introduce new products as you become more familiar with your skin's needs.

Patience and consistency are essential to achieving the results you want. Remember, don’t rush the process—skincare is a journey, not a race. Take it one step at a time and enjoy the process of caring for your skin!

Let’s explore the basics of what a great beginner skincare routine should include.

FIRST STEP: Double Cleansing — Evening

For a balanced skincare routine, cleansing differs between morning and night.
In the evening, double cleansing is essential to remove sunscreen, excess oil, and impurities from pollution. Start with an oil-based or balm cleanser to dissolve buildup, then follow with a gentle, water-based cleanser for a deep cleanse. This ensures your skin is thoroughly prepped to absorb nourishing skincare products.

In the morning, if you don’t have excess sebum and regularly change your pillowcase, we recommend skipping a cleanser and rinsing your face with lukewarm water. This gentle approach preserves your skin natural oils while providing a fresh start to the day.

SECOND STEP: Toner — Morning and Evening

After cleansing, toning helps balance your skin pH and remove any leftover dirt or makeup. It prepares your skin for the next steps in your routine. Toners benefit different skin types: for oily or combination skin, they control oil and minimize pores; for dry skin, they add hydration, leaving your skin plump and nourished.
Use toner both morning and night. In the morning, it removes excess oil and preps your skin for makeup. In the evening, it ensures your skin is clean and balanced. To apply toner, you can either use a cotton pad or pour a few drops into your hands and gently pat it onto your face.

THIRD STEP: Moisturizer — Morning and Evening

Moisturizing is an essential step in any skincare routine, as it helps keep your skin hydrated and protected. Apply moisturizer both morning and night to maintain balance and nourishment.
For beginners, a simple moisturizer that suits your skin type is a great choice, look for a lightweight, non-greasy formula that hydrates without feeling heavy, and provides enough nourishment for both day and night. This ensures your skin stays healthy and well-moisturized throughout the day and night.

LAST STEP: Sunscreen — Morning/During the day

Sunscreen is a must in every skincare routine to protect against harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and increase the risk of skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper, contributing to aging, while UVB rays cause sunburns. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with minimum SPF 30 or higher for full protection.
Apply it generously to your face, neck, and ears, and reapply it during the day, especially if you're outdoors or swimming. Incorporating sunscreen daily helps maintain healthy, youthful skin and prevents long-term sun damage.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Starting with a simple skincare routine: cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen is the best way to care for your skin as a beginner. As you get more familiar with your skin needs, you can gradually add more steps or products (serum, essence…) also available on SKINOREA.
Consistency and patience are key to achieving healthy, glowing skin, so enjoy the process and allow your skin to thrive!