First and foremost, I am not an expert in Korean Skin Care Routine. I only started the skin care routine a few years back (posted this one year ago: 10 Things You Need To Know About The 10 Steps Korean Skincare Routine). But I noticed a visible change on my skin.. it is softer, less pores and not to mention brighter! And it’s less oily now.. and when it comes to coverage, I only use Olay CC cream and I’m good to go.

My Korean Skin Care Routine Experience

Korean Products To Use

In terms of products to use, it doesn’t need to be 100% Korean brands. I use Safeguard Derma Sense Facial Cleanser as my facial wash. It really helped in controlling my break outs. It’s a bit drying but my moisturizer did a good job in compensating it.

As for my other skin care products, most of them are Laneige. I also use Cure and Dermal for exfoliation and rejuvenation.

On Exfoliation

I have learned that when you exfoliate, you need to rejuvenate. You need to use a mask (or a repair cream)after using peeling gel or facial scrub. The scrub/ peeling strips your skin of its moisture so you need to replace that by using mask or repair cream.

When it comes to exfoliation, it usually comes after toner… usually but not most of the times. Here’s a guide:

Wash> peeling gel/ scrub> toner> emulsion> mask
Wash> peeling gel/ scrub> toner> repair cream (Laneige)> emulsion

You don’t have to rinse facial mask that is why you can use it after applying emulsion. Laneige Multiberry Yogurt Repair Pack on the hand needs rinsing so you need to use that BEFORE emulsion.

Want more facial care tips delivered straight to your inbox!

Start From Something

If the steps are overwhelming or the products are expensive, you don’t have to do or use it right away. You just need to start something. Start from the basic:

• wash
• toner
• moisturize

Use a toner that is alcohol free. When I was just starting, I use Safeguard Acne Wash> Olay Toner> Olay Moisturizer. It’s a very cheap alternative and Olay is really effective.

From that, I shifted to a more complex routine. I used some products from Tony Moly (toner) and The Face Shop. Then I tried Laneige but since it’s more expensive than TFS products, I started with the their kit. The kit usually lasts a month and it’s only 2000 Pesos. After using 2 kits, I started buying the full size bottle by bottle. Each bottle usually last more than 2 months.

When you’re done with the basic (wash> toner> moisturize), slowly add more routines. Exfoliate at least once a week and don’t forget your eyes. Eye cream are as much important as facial moisturizer. YES, you need an eye cream! The skin under your eyes is different from your face skin.

Other products worth investing

• Make Up Remover specially for your eyes.
• Facial Mist (gives moisture when you’re out) and Clear C Advanced Effector (brightens the skin!)

Sleeping mask to keep your skin hydrated even when you’re  sleeping.

Best lip moisturizer ever! This is always out of stock at my favorite Laneige kiosk.. because hello!?! it is that effective.

That’s one of the best thing I discovered with most Korean Skin Care Brands, they’re generous on samples! You may have noticed that my Laneige Multiberry Yogurt are in sample sizes.. those are samples! I have a bag full of Laneige product samples.

Lastly, the best cotton to use for your facial care is the circle one and this is it should be used:

The edges of the cotton can be rough and creates friction with the skin. I learned that the hard way!

How about you?!? What’s your skin care routine? Have you tried the Korean Skin Care Routine? You should! Or at least try the basic routine. Your face needs water as much as you do!