Korean skincare: where to actually start
You don’t need ten products. You need to understand what your skin really needs.
If you’re wondering where to start with Korean skincare, you’ve probably already come across the famous 10-step routine. Don’t worry. Korean skincare isn’t about collecting an endless list of products. It’s an approach to skin that focuses on understanding its needs, consistency, and personalization.
The basic rule is simple: start with the lightest textures and gradually move towards richer ones. Each step prepares your skin for the next.
The Korean skincare routine, step by step
1. Cleanser: the cleansing step
The first step: cleanse your skin gently, removing impurities, excess sebum, makeup, and SPF without stripping it. Clean skin that doesn’t feel tight is the foundation for everything that follows.
2. Toner: preparing your skin
It helps hydrate your skin and prepare it for the following steps. In Korean skincare, toner isn’t an astringent: it’s the first layer of hydration.
3. Essence: the hydration boost
A lightweight step designed to boost hydration and support your skin’s balance. It’s one of the most distinctive elements of Korean skincare.
4. Serum: your personalized step
The most customizable part of your routine. Choose it according to your skin’s specific needs: hydration, radiance, blemishes, sensitivity, or signs of aging.
5. Cream: locking in hydration
It helps retain moisture and support your skin barrier.
6. SPF: the final step of your morning routine
In the morning, the final step is always sunscreen. Because protecting your skin is an essential part of skincare. And how much you apply matters too.
In what order should you apply your skincare products?
From lightest to richest: start with water-based textures, follow with fluid formulas, and finish with creams.
In the morning, always finish with SPF. In the evening, finish with your moisturizer.
But do you really need every step?
No.
You can start with a simple, essential routine:
Morning: Cleanser → Cream → SPF
Evening: Cleanser → Cream
Then add toner, essence, and serum only once you’ve understood what your skin truly needs.
Introduce one product at a time: it’s the easiest way to understand what works for you.
The SOOMI philosophy: a routine that makes sense for you
The SOOMI philosophy starts right here: don’t follow a routine just because it’s trending. Build one that truly makes sense for you.
Your skin changes. Your skincare can change with it.
Want to understand where to begin? Visit us at SOOMI Skin Studio, at Corso Genova 11 in Milan, or get in touch with us on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions about Korean skincare
How many steps are in a Korean skincare routine?
The most well-known version includes ten steps, but it’s not a rule. To get started, three products in the morning are enough — cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF — and just two in the evening: cleanser and moisturizer.
What’s the correct order for applying skincare products?
Cleanser, toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and, in the morning, SPF. The principle is always the same: from the lightest texture to the richest.
What’s the difference between toner and essence?
Toner prepares your skin and provides an initial layer of hydration. Essence is a lightweight step that boosts hydration. Both are optional when you’re just starting out.
Is Korean skincare suitable for every skin type?
The approach is, because it’s built around your skin’s individual needs. The products, however, should always be selected according to those needs.
Discover your skin. Build your ritual.
SOOMI — Skin Studio
Korean skincare, interpreted for your skin.