Korean Skincare Routine for Beginners: The Complete Step-by-Step Guide

If there is one thing Korea is famous for beyond K-pop and kimchi, it is skincare. The Korean skincare routine has taken the world by storm, promising dewy, luminous "glass skin" through a layered approach to hydration, protection, and repair. But for beginners, the idea of a 10-step routine can feel overwhelming. Do you really need ten products every single day?

The short answer is no. Think of the 10-step Korean skincare routine as a complete menu, not a mandatory daily meal. As dermatologist Dr. Y. Claire Chang explains, "One of the biggest misconceptions is that the 10-step routine literally has to be 10 steps every morning and evening. In reality, it's a menu of tools you can pick and choose based on your skin type, the season, and your skin's needs." This guide breaks down every step, offers a simplified version for busy beginners, and tells you exactly where to shop when you visit Korea.

The Full 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine

Here is the classic Korean skincare routine in the correct order. Each step builds on the one before it, moving from thinnest to thickest consistency.

Step 1: Oil Cleanser (Double Cleansing, Part 1)

An oil-based cleanser dissolves makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping your skin's natural moisture barrier. Massage it onto dry skin in gentle circles, then emulsify with a splash of water before rinsing.

• Recommended product: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Cleansing Oil (~$12-$16 / ~₩16,000-₩21,000)

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser (Double Cleansing, Part 2)

The second cleanse targets water-based impurities like sweat and dirt that oil alone cannot remove. Choose a low-pH, sulfate-free formula to avoid disrupting your skin barrier.

• Recommended product: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (~$8-$12 / ~₩10,000-₩16,000)

Step 3: Exfoliator (1-2 Times Per Week)

Korean skincare favors gentle chemical exfoliation over harsh physical scrubs. AHAs (like lactic acid) brighten the surface, while BHAs (like salicylic acid) penetrate pores for a deeper clean. Use this step sparingly — once or twice a week is plenty.

• Recommended product: COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid (~$15-$20 / ~₩19,000-₩26,000)

Step 4: Toner

Korean toners are nothing like the harsh, alcohol-laden toners of the past. They are hydrating, pH-balancing liquids that prep your skin to absorb everything that follows. Pat the toner into your skin with your hands rather than using a cotton pad to maximize absorption.

• Recommended product: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner (~$14-$18 / ~₩18,000-₩23,000)

Step 5: Essence

Essence is the heart of any Korean skincare routine. This lightweight, watery product delivers a concentrated burst of hydration and active ingredients deep into the skin. It is the step that distinguishes K-beauty from Western routines.

• Recommended product: Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence (~$20-$30 / ~₩26,000-₩39,000)

Step 6: Serum or Ampoule

Serums and ampoules are concentrated treatments that target specific concerns such as hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or acne. Choose based on your primary skin concern.

• For brightening: Numbuzin No. 3 Skin Softening Serum (~$14-$18 / ~₩18,000-₩23,000)
• For hydration: Torriden DIVE-IN Low-Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum (~$13-$17 / ~₩17,000-₩22,000)
• For soothing: ABIB Heartleaf Essence Calming Pump (~$18-$22 / ~₩23,000-₩29,000)

Step 7: Sheet Mask (1-3 Times Per Week)

Sheet masks are soaked in concentrated serums and provide an intensive treatment for your skin. Apply for 15-20 minutes — no longer, as the mask will begin to reabsorb moisture from your face once it dries out.

• Recommended product: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Skin Barrier Moisturizing Mask (pack of 5, ~$15-$20 / ~₩19,000-₩26,000)

Step 8: Eye Cream

The skin around your eyes is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face. A good eye cream addresses dark circles, fine lines, and puffiness. Use your ring finger to gently pat the product around the orbital bone.

• Recommended product: AHC Ten Revolution Real Eye Cream for Face (~$12-$18 / ~₩16,000-₩23,000)

Step 9: Moisturizer

The moisturizer seals in all the layers of hydration and active ingredients beneath it. Choose a gel-type for oily skin or a rich cream for dry skin.

• Recommended product: Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream (~$18-$25 / ~₩23,000-₩33,000) — one of Olive Young's bestsellers for barrier repair

Step 10: Sunscreen (Morning) / Sleeping Mask (Evening)

Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Korean sunscreens are famous worldwide for their lightweight, non-greasy formulas that sit beautifully under makeup. In the evening, swap sunscreen for a sleeping mask for overnight hydration.

• AM product: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ (~$10-$15 / ~₩13,000-₩19,000)
• PM product: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask (~$20-$28 / ~₩26,000-₩36,000)

The Simplified 5-Step Routine for Beginners

Not ready for the full routine? Start here. These five steps cover the essentials and take less than five minutes.

According to a 2025 Korean consumer survey, the most essential skincare products Koreans use even when they are in a rush are toner (46.4%), lotion or moisturizer (42.2%), and sunscreen (33.3%). If you do nothing else, cleanse, moisturize, and protect with SPF.

Morning vs. Evening Routine: What Changes?

Your morning and evening routines should not look identical. Here is how they differ:

Morning Routine (Focus: Protection)

1. Water-based cleanser (or just a splash of water)
2. Toner
3. Essence
4. Serum (lightweight, like a vitamin C serum)
5. Moisturizer
6. Sunscreen (always the final step)

Skip the oil cleanser in the morning — your skin has not accumulated makeup or sunscreen overnight. Many Koreans prefer to simply rinse with lukewarm water in the morning to avoid over-cleansing.

Evening Routine (Focus: Repair and Nourish)

1. Oil cleanser
2. Water-based cleanser
3. Exfoliator (1-2 times per week)
4. Toner
5. Essence
6. Serum or ampoule (targeted treatment)
7. Sheet mask (1-3 times per week)
8. Eye cream
9. Moisturizer or sleeping mask

The evening routine is where you layer on the heavier, more active products. Korean beauty experts recommend using different product lines — for example, a calming line in the morning and a brightening or anti-aging line in the evening — rather than stacking too many actives at once. A good rule of thumb: limit yourself to two active ingredients per routine session.

Key K-Beauty Ingredients to Know

Korean skincare is built on a few powerhouse ingredients. Here are the ones you will encounter most often:

• Centella Asiatica (병풀 추출물): A soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredient that calms redness and repairs the skin barrier. Found in countless K-beauty products.
• Snail Mucin (달팽이 뮤신): Rich in glycoproteins and hyaluronic acid, snail mucin promotes cell regeneration and deep hydration. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is a cult favorite.
• Propolis (프로폴리스): A resinous substance produced by bees, packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Excellent for dull, tired skin.
• Hyaluronic Acid (히알루론산): A moisture-binding molecule that can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water. Look for low-molecular-weight versions for deeper penetration.
• Niacinamide: A form of vitamin B3 that brightens, reduces pore appearance, and regulates oil production.

Where to Buy Korean Skincare Products in Korea

Olive Young

Olive Young is Korea's largest health and beauty chain, with over 1,300 stores nationwide. It is essentially the K-beauty shopper's paradise. You will find one in virtually every subway station area and major shopping district.

• Tax-free shopping: Show your passport at checkout for tax-free purchases (stores near tourist areas like Myeongdong and Gangnam offer this)
• Flagship stores: The Myeongdong and Gangnam flagship stores carry the widest selection
• Budget tip: Check the "1+1" (buy one get one) deals and seasonal sales — they happen constantly
• Prices: Most products range from ₩5,000-₩30,000 ($4-$23)

Other Shopping Options

• Chicor: A more upscale beauty store owned by Shinsegae, stocking both Korean and international brands
• Lotte Department Store beauty floors: Premium K-beauty brands like Sulwhasoo and Hera
• Daiso Korea: Surprisingly good skincare basics starting at ₩1,000-₩5,000 ($0.75-$4)
• Gangnam Underground Shopping Center: Budget K-beauty products near Gangnam Station

Shopping Tips for International Visitors

1. Download the Olive Young Global app before your trip to browse products and prices
2. Look for the "K-Beauty Awards" stickers on shelves — these indicate products voted best by Korean consumers
3. Ask for samples: Korean beauty stores are generous with free samples. Just ask!
4. Buy in bulk: Sheet masks and sunscreens are significantly cheaper in Korea than abroad
5. Check Naver reviews: Search the Korean product name on Naver for real user reviews and ratings

FAQ

Q: Do I really need all 10 steps? A: No. The 10-step routine is a framework, not a rule. Most Korean dermatologists actually recommend 3-5 core steps daily (cleanser, toner, moisturizer, sunscreen) with additional treatments as needed. Listen to your skin and add products gradually.

Q: How long does the full Korean skincare routine take? A: A simplified 5-step routine takes about 3-5 minutes. The full 10-step routine takes 15-20 minutes, but most people reserve the complete version for their evening routine or a weekly pampering session.

Q: What order should I apply products in? A: Always go from thinnest to thickest consistency: toner, essence, serum, eye cream, moisturizer, sunscreen. This allows each layer to absorb properly before the next one is applied.

Q: Can men follow the Korean skincare routine? A: Absolutely. Skincare is gender-neutral in Korea, and many men follow multi-step routines. In fact, South Korea has one of the largest men's skincare markets in the world.

Q: How soon will I see results? A: Most people notice improved hydration within 1-2 weeks. For concerns like hyperpigmentation or fine lines, expect 4-8 weeks of consistent use before visible improvement. Korean skincare philosophy emphasizes prevention and long-term care over quick fixes.

Q: Is Korean skincare suitable for sensitive skin? A: Yes. K-beauty places a strong emphasis on gentle, non-irritating formulas. Look for products featuring centella asiatica, panthenol, and ceramides. Brands like Aestura, Etude SoonJung, and Dr.G are specifically formulated for sensitive skin.

Start Your Korean Skincare Journey

The Korean skincare routine is not about having the most products — it is about understanding what your skin needs and giving it the right ingredients in the right order. Start with the simplified 5-step routine, add products as you learn what your skin responds to, and enjoy the process.

If you are visiting Korea, there is no better time to stock up on K-beauty products. Walk into any Olive Young, pick up a few essentials, and experience firsthand why Korean skincare has become a global phenomenon.

Ready to explore more? Check out our guides to the best dermatology clinics in Gangnam and how to book your first Korean dermatology appointment.

Prices as of February 2026. Actual costs may vary by store and location. Exchange rate used: ₩1,300 ≈ $1 USD. Last Updated: February 10, 2026 Reading Time: 8 minutes