10-Step Korean Skincare Routine: Step-by-Step Guide
There is no doubt that Korean skincare is the most talked-about thing in the beauty world right now, and for good reasons. From Seoul to New York to Islamabad, an increasing number of people are following the famous 10-step Korean skincare routine not because it's trendy but because it's effective.
This routine isn't about quick fixes. It's about building habits that care for your skin over time. The main reason behind its global rise is that it's gentle, flexible, and effective, everything people expect modern skincare to be. Particularly in Pakistan, as people are becoming increasingly aware of skincare products. Whether it's TikTok tutorials or YouTube reviews, the curiosity is building. People want glowing, healthy skin, and they're ready to try something new.
In this article, we'll break down each step of the famous 10-step K-beauty routine in a way that's easy to follow and adjust.
What Is the 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine?
Although the 10-step Korean skincare routine is sometimes misunderstood as a lengthy and tiring process, in reality, it's just an organized method of taking care of the skin. It's all about using light-textured products and giving your skin the time and ingredients it needs to heal and glow. The idea is not to overload your skin with different products but to support it with gentle care.
The best part is that you don't have to complete all ten steps each day. These are flexible guidelines rather than strict rules. You can shorten it to 3–5 steps when you're in a hurry, and follow the complete routine when you want extra care.
Step 1: Apply Oil-Based Cleanser
The first step in this K-beauty routine is to use an oil-based cleanser. It helps remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil without making the skin dry. This step is especially important if you've been outdoors or wearing SPF all day; it clears the surface before your deeper cleanse.
A good product for this is the Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil, which gently breaks down buildup while helping calm the skin. It's lightweight and washes off easily, which makes it a smooth start to the double cleansing method.
Step 2: Wash with Water-Based Cleanser
After that, to get rid of any remaining dirt and sweat, wash your face with a water-based cleanser. With this double-cleansing method, you make sure that your skin is prepared for the upcoming steps.
Even a mild gel cleanser can do the job without making your skin feel tight. The goal here isn't just to clean; it's to clear your skin for better absorption for the following steps.
Step 3: Exfoliate Gently (2-3 Times a Week)
Exfoliators can help remove dead skin cells that make the skin look dull or rough. It also allows other products to absorb better. The key is not to scrub too hard or too often; 2 to 3 times a week is more than enough.
Whether you choose a soft scrub, peeling gel, or a mild acid-based exfoliator, just make sure it's gentle and suits your skin's sensitivity level.
Step 4: Apply Toner
Toners in Korean skincare are not the harsh and alcohol-heavy ones that many people remember from years ago. They're made to hydrate, balance, and calm the skin after cleansing.
The Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner is a popular choice. It is particularly helpful for irritated skin. For a quick refresh, simply rub a few drops between your hands or apply them with a cotton pad.
Step 5: Apply Essence
Essence is a lightweight liquid that can help your skin get extra hydration and is a unique step in K-beauty skincare routines. It's similar to moisturizing your skin before the following steps.
The COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is one of the most well-known in the world of Korean skincare. It helps improve skin texture, uneven tone, and gives your skin a dewy glow when used consistently.
Step 6: Apply Serum or Ampoule
This is the stage of routine where you address specific skin concerns like dryness, pigmentation, or dullness. Concentrated formulas that have a deeper skin penetration rate are found in serums and ampoules, which can be perfect.
COSRX The Vitamin C 13 Serum with Super Vitamin E + Hyaluronic Acid is an ideal option if you want to moisturize and brighten your skin. It balances your skin tone gradually and is mild enough for beginners.
Step 7: Put on Sheet Mask (2–3 Times a Week)
Sheet masks are a self-care favorite, not just for their skin benefits but also for the relaxing experience they offer. You can use them a couple of times a week to add an extra layer of hydration.
The Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask can be ideal. It fits smoothly, delivers moisture deep into the skin, and helps your face feel plumper and refreshed. Simply place it on for 15–20 minutes, then remove it and gently wipe away the remaining serum from your skin. No rinse is needed.
Step 8: Use an Eye Cream
The skin around your eyes is much more sensitive than the rest of your face, which is why it needs special care. Eye creams help reduce puffiness, dryness, and dark circles, especially if you stay up late or spend long hours on screens.
You don't need a lot, just a tiny dab. Apply it gently with your ring finger. This step may seem small, but if you use it regularly, it can really make your face look more fresh.
Step 9: Moisturize
After applying all those lightweight layers, a good moisturizer helps lock everything in. It seals in hydration, protects your skin barrier, and prevents moisture from escaping, especially during harsh weather or when using a fan or AC overnight.
You don't need a heavy cream. Just choose a texture that matches your skin. Gel moisturizers usually suit oily skin, while lotions or creams suit dry or combination skin types. The key is to find something that feels comfortable without clogging your pores.
Step 10: Use Sunscreen
This is the most important step in your routine and one you should never skip. With sunscreen, you can shield your skin from damaging UV rays, which cause dark spots, premature aging, and uneven tone over time.
A great example is the COSRX Ultra-Light Invisible Sunscreen SPF50 PA++++ (50ml). It blends in smoothly, leaving no white cast, and your skin feels incredibly light after using this, making it perfect for everyday use in sunny and humid weather.
Even on cloudy days, UV rays can reach your skin. So, make sunscreen the final step every morning, and reapply during the day if you're spending time outdoors.
Do You Really Need All 10 Steps?
You don't have to follow all 10 steps every single day. Many people use a 3-step version in the morning (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen) and a slightly longer routine at night, depending on how their skin feels. The routine is flexible, allowing you to mix and match components based on your time, skin type, and budget.
The real secret is consistency. Even a short routine can deliver fantastic results if you stick to it.
Conclusion
Korean skincare isn't just about using a lot of products; it's about being kind to your skin.
Instead of harsh treatments and using strong chemicals, the 10-step routine focuses on hydration, repair, and care over time. That's why so many people are following this routine. It delivers results gently.
Whether you follow 3 steps or all 10, what matters most is knowing what your skin needs and treating it with patience. Try a few steps, build your routine slowly, and enjoy the process; your skin will thank you for it.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use local products instead of Korean ones in this routine?
Yes. While Korean products are popular for their gentle formulas, you can build your routine with any product that suits your skin, local or international. Just make sure that all the products are suitable for each step and meet your skin's needs.
Q2: Is the 10-step routine safe for beginners or teens?
Yes. In fact, many teenagers in Korea begin with basic skincare at a young age. Start with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, and add more steps as your skin becomes accustomed to them.
Q3: Can I skip some steps if I'm busy?
Yes. You can modify the routine so that it can suit your schedule. Many people use a 3 or 5-step version most days and do the whole 10-step routine only a few times a week.
Q5: Is this routine good for oily or acne-prone skin?
Yes. Most Korean products are made to be lightweight and soothing, which works well for oily or acne-prone skin. Just choose non-comedogenic products and avoid over-exfoliating.
