Top 5 Things We Can Take From K Beauty
If you’re new to Korean (K) Beauty, you may not be overly familiar with the 10-step routine which forms the basis of the whole thing. Yes that’s right, that’s 10 things to do before you can go to sleep!
It’s pretty intense and whilst some see it as vital, if you’re a little lazy like me and want to cut it down on occasion, I’ve taken five of the vital elements.
So if you’re looking to improve your routine and want to take some tips from well, the best in the business (I mean the Koreans not me btw) then read on…
The Double Cleanse
Cleansing twice is KEY in K beauty. You start with an oil cleanser to remove make-up, bacteria and SPF and any of the nasties that clog up your pores throughout the day. Oils are used to break down the harder to remove of these and helps with dry skin. The second step is to use a water-based cleanser. This should pick up any other dirt and sweat that may not have been picked up by the first round. Remember to rinse with LUKE WARM water. If your water is too hot it could irritate your skin - especially if you have sensitive skin like me.
2. Toner
I never really understood what toner did. I remember having the same conversations with my friends, but to be honest this was back in the day when I was using Clean & Clear and chucking anything onto my skin. I look back and shudder.
In K Beauty, toning is a vital step. What I like about a good toner is that despite double cleansing I ALWAYS still find some leftover dirt or make-up lingering on my face. So it gets rid of this final bit of dirt whilst also balancing out your skin and getting it ready for the moisture!
Toning is supposed to repair your skin’s barrier and get it ready to effectively absorb the moisturising products. It’s like a primer but for hydration.
3. Essence
This is one I hadn’t really heard of before getting into K Beauty.
Essence is a toner / serum mix which you pat onto your face ahead of moisture again to help with hydration. You know I am all about hydration products so I love anything that helps with this step.
And if you’ve cleansed twice, adding some extra hydration is always needed. It’s supposed to brighten your complexion.
4. Sheet Masking
The Korean favourite as part of a regular skincare routine is actually the sheet mask.
Alongside the boost of hydration, the meditation and calm of sitting with a sheet over your face for 15 minutes lets you take some time out.
Now this does add an extra 10-15 minutes to your routine so it’s not something I’m going to do everyday, but it’s definitely a spa break at home.
5. SPF
Can you believe there are still some people out there that don’t wear SPF everyday?! Yes, really.
Sun protection is for life, not just for summer people.
It’s not just the Koreans doing this but it’s definitely a vital step on the list and should always be the last product in your routine so it doesn’t get diluted with other products.