Korean Skincare Routine Step by Step: Complete Guide for Beginners 2025

Rutina de Skincare Coreano Paso a Paso: Guía Completa para Principiantes 2025

The Korean Skincare Routine: Your Complete Guide

The Korean skincare routine is world-renowned for its transformative results. While it may seem complicated at first, it's actually a logical and customizable system that adapts to your skin's specific needs.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain step-by-step how to create your perfect K-Beauty routine, what products you need, and how to use them correctly to achieve that luminous and healthy skin characteristic of K-Beauty.

Why Does the Korean Workout Routine Work?

The effectiveness of the Korean skincare routine is based on three fundamental principles:

  1. Hydration layers : Multiple lightweight products absorb better than one heavy one.
  2. Prevention : Take care of your skin before problems appear
  3. Consistency : Long-term results with dedicated daily care

Unlike Western cosmetics, which traditionally focus on correcting problems, the Korean routine prioritizes maintaining healthy skin from the start.

Korean Skincare Routine: The 10 Steps Explained

STEP 1: Oil-Based Cleanser (Night Only)

When to use it : Only at night
Why it's important : Removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil without drying out your skin.

The first step of the famous Korean double cleansing method uses an oil-based cleanser. Why oil? Because oil dissolves oil: your makeup, sunscreen, and your skin's natural oils are all oil-based.

Recommended product : SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil

This lightweight cleansing oil is perfect for all skin types, even oily skin. Its formula with centella from Madagascar soothes the skin while deeply cleansing without clogging pores.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply 2-3 pumps to DRY (not wet) skin
  2. Massage gently in circular motions for 1 minute
  3. Pay special attention to areas with makeup
  4. Add a little water to emulsify (the oil will turn milky)
  5. Rinse thoroughly with warm water

STEP 2: Water-Based Cleanser (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it's important : Second cleansing to remove remaining impurities, sweat, and residue

The second step of double cleansing uses a water-based cleanser (foam, gel, or cream) to ensure your skin is completely clean.

Recommended product : SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule Foam

This cleansing foam has a balanced pH (5.5) that respects your skin's natural barrier. It cleanses deeply without causing tightness or dryness, perfect for sensitive skin.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Moisten your face with warm water
  2. Apply a small amount (about the size of a coin) and lather.
  3. Gently massage in circular motions for 30-60 seconds
  4. Rinse thoroughly with warm water
  5. Pat dry gently using a clean towel

STEP 3: Exfoliant (2-3 times per week)

When to use it : 2-3 times a week, preferably at night
Why it's important : It removes dead skin cells, improves texture, and allows for better absorption of products.

Exfoliation is key to maintaining smooth, radiant skin. Koreans prefer gentle chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs) over harsh physical exfoliants.

Recommended product : MEDICUBE Zero Pore Pad 2.0

These exfoliating pads, pre-soaked with toner, minimize pores, control oil, and refine texture without irritation. Perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.

How to use them correctly :

  1. After cleansing, gently sweep the pad all over your face.
  2. Avoid eye cream
  3. Do not rinse
  4. Continue with the next step in your routine
  5. IMPORTANT: Do not exfoliate every day, 2-3 times a week is enough

STEP 4: Tonic (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it's important : It balances pH, hydrates, and prepares the skin to better absorb treatments.

Korean toners are completely different from Western astringent toners. They are hydrating, soothing, and prepare your skin like a sponge to absorb subsequent products.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Pour a generous amount into the palms of your hands
  2. Gently press onto the face with a patting motion (7 skin method for extra hydration)
  3. Or use a cotton ball for a more even application
  4. Allow to absorb completely before the next step.

STEP 5: Essence (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it's important : Deep hydration and preparation for concentrated serums

Essences are at the heart of the Korean skincare routine. They are water-based products packed with active ingredients that provide deep hydration and prepare the skin for more concentrated treatments.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply 2-3 drops to your palms
  2. Gently press on the face and neck
  3. Pat to aid absorption
  4. Wait 30 seconds before the next step

STEP 6: Serum or Ampoule (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it matters : Concentrated treatment for specific skin problems

Korean serums are highly concentrated products that treat specific problems: blemishes, wrinkles, pores, redness, etc. This is the step where you personalize your routine according to your needs.

Recommended products based on your needs :

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply 2-4 drops to the face (pea-sized amount)
  2. Distribute with upward movements
  3. Gently press with your palms to aid absorption
  4. Allow to absorb for 1-2 minutes before the next step.
  5. You can use different serums in the morning and at night depending on your needs.

STEP 7: Face mask (1-3 times per week)

When to use it : 1-3 times a week, preferably at night
Why it matters : Intensive treatment for specific needs

Korean face masks offer an intensive treatment boost. There are different types: clay masks, sheet masks, sleeping masks, peel-off masks, etc.

Recommended product : SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Quick Clay Stick Mask

This clay mask stick is perfect for minimizing pores, controlling oil, and purifying the skin. The stick format allows for easy and precise application without getting your hands messy.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply after cleansing, on dry skin
  2. Apply an even layer, avoiding the eye and lip area.
  3. Leave on for 10-15 minutes (do not let it dry completely)
  4. Rinse with warm water using gentle circular motions
  5. Continue with your usual routine (toner, serum, cream)

STEP 8: Eye Contour (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it matters : The skin around the eyes is 10 times more delicate and needs specific care

The eye area is the first place where signs of aging appear. A good product for this area prevents dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Use your ring finger (the softest one) to apply
  2. Apply a rice-grain-sized amount to both eyes
  3. Gently tap from the inner corner of your eye towards your temples
  4. NEVER stretch or rub the skin
  5. Allow to absorb completely

STEP 9: Moisturizing Cream (Morning and Night)

When to use it : Morning and night
Why it's important : It seals in all the hydration and nutrition from the previous steps

Moisturizing cream is like a seal that keeps all the active ingredients inside your skin and prevents moisture loss.

Recommended products according to your skin type :

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply a coin-sized amount
  2. Apply to forehead, cheeks, nose and chin
  3. Massage with upward and outward movements
  4. Don't forget your neck (use upward movements)
  5. Allow to absorb completely

STEP 10: Sunscreen (MORNING ONLY)

When to use it : EVERY DAY in the morning, without exception
Why it's THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP : It prevents 80% of premature aging, blemishes, and sun damage.

Sunscreen is the most effective anti-aging product there is. Without sun protection, all the other steps in your routine lose their effectiveness.

Recommended product : SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++

This serum-textured sunscreen is a game-changer. It hydrates while protecting, leaves no white cast, is non-greasy, and is perfect under makeup. With SPF 50+ and PA++++, it offers broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

How to use it correctly :

  1. Apply as the LAST step of your morning routine
  2. Use a GENEROUS amount (equivalent to 2 fingers of product for face and neck)
  3. Apply 15 minutes before going outside
  4. Reapply every 2-3 hours if you are exposed to the sun
  5. Use it EVERY DAY, even on cloudy days or if you are indoors (UV rays penetrate windows)

Simplified Routine for Beginners

If the 10 steps overwhelm you, start with this basic 4-step routine and gradually add products:

Basic Morning Routine (4 steps):

  1. Water-based cleanser : SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule Foam
  2. Serum : Purito Wonder Leaf Centella Serum
  3. Moisturizing cream : According to your skin type
  4. Sunscreen : SKIN1004 Centella Sun Serum SPF50+

Basic Night Routine (5 steps):

  1. Oil-based cleanser : SKIN1004 Centella Cleansing Oil
  2. Water-based cleanser : SKIN1004 Centella Ampoule Foam
  3. Serum : Purito Wonder Leaf Centella Serum
  4. Moisturizing cream : According to your skin type

Once your skin has adapted (2-4 weeks), you can add more steps according to your specific needs.

Order of Application: The Golden Rule

The correct order is CRUCIAL in the Korean routine. The general rule is:

From LIGHTEST to HEAVIEST
From more WATERY to more OILY

This ensures that each product is absorbed correctly and does not block the absorption of subsequent products.

Common Mistakes You Should Avoid

  1. Introduce all products at once : Add new products one at a time every 1-2 weeks to identify what works.
  2. Skipping sunscreen : It's the MOST important step, ALWAYS use it
  3. Not giving the products time : Real results take a minimum of 4-8 weeks
  4. Exfoliate every day : 2-3 times a week is enough, more can damage your skin barrier
  5. Using incompatible products : Do not mix retinol with vitamin C in the same routine
  6. Applying too much product : More is not better, follow the recommended amounts
  7. Not cleansing properly : Double cleansing at night is essential to remove sunscreen.

When to Expect Results

Patience is key in Korean skincare. Here's a realistic timeline:

  • 1-2 weeks : Skin is more hydrated, softer to the touch and less tight.
  • 4 weeks : Noticeable improvement in texture, luminosity and a more even tone
  • 8-12 weeks : Visible reduction of blemishes, refined pores and less noticeable fine lines
  • 3-6 months : Complete skin transformation, visible anti-aging results

Adapting the Routine to Your Skin Type

Oily Skin:

  • Focus on lightweight, gel-type products
  • Use exfoliants with BHA (salicylic acid) 2-3 times per week
  • Don't skip moisturizing (oily skin also needs hydration)
  • Use clay masks 1-2 times per week

Dry Skin:

  • Use more nourishing and creamy products
  • Add facial oils before the cream
  • Use sleeping masks at night for extra hydration
  • Avoid harsh exfoliants

Sensitive Skin:

  • Prioritize products with centella, panthenol, and ceramides
  • Avoid fragrances and alcohol
  • Introduce new products very gradually
  • Use gentle PHA-type exfoliants

Combination Skin:

  • You can use different products in different areas.
  • Zone T: lighter products
  • Cheeks: more moisturizing products

Starter Kit: True-Yeppo Essential Products

To make getting started with K-Beauty easier, we've selected the essential products from our store:

Basic Cleaning Kit:

Treatment Kit:

Hydration Kit:

Protection Kit:

Intensive Treatment Kit:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to do all 10 steps every day?

Not necessarily. A 10-step routine is the maximum, but you can customize it. The essentials are: cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.

How long does it take to complete the entire routine?

The morning routine takes 5-10 minutes. The evening routine takes 10-15 minutes. With practice, it gets faster.

Can I mix products from different brands?

Absolutely! You don't need to use all the products from the same brand. Mix and match according to what works for your skin.

At what age should I start Korean skincare?

It's never too early or too late. Prevention works best, so the sooner you start, the better. Even teenagers can benefit from a basic routine.

Can men use these products?

Of course! Skincare has no gender. Men benefit equally from a good skincare routine.

Conclusion: Your K-Beauty Journey Starts Today

The Korean skincare routine might seem intimidating at first, but it's an investment in your skin's long-term health. You don't need to start with all 10 steps right away. Begin with the basics and gradually add products based on your skin's needs.

Remember the three fundamental pillars:

  1. Deep cleaning (double night cleaning)
  2. Layered hydration (toner, serum, cream)
  3. Daily sun protection (the most important step)

At True-Yeppo, we offer all the products you need to start your Korean skincare routine with authentic brands like SKIN1004, Purito SEOUL, MEDICUBE, Beauty of Joseon, and Dr. Althea. All our products are 100% original and imported directly from South Korea.

Explore our collections and start your transformation today:

Ready to achieve that radiant, healthy-looking skin that's synonymous with K-Beauty? Your journey begins with the first step. Start your Korean skincare routine today!