Glowing skin isn’t just about applying the right products—it’s about following a consistent, thoughtful skincare routine. Both Japanese and Korean skincare routine methods focus on hydration, nourishment, and prevention to achieve a healthy, radiant complexion. If you’re looking to embrace these time-tested beauty secrets, here’s a simple six-step guide to achieving glowing skin.
1. Double Cleansing for a Fresh Start
Cleansing is the foundation of Japanese and Korean skincare routine. Start with an oil cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum. Next, use a gentle water cleanser to wash your skin of any remaining impurities. This leaves your skin clean without stripping it of its own natural moisturizing factor.
2. Hydrating and Balancing with a Toner or Lotion
Unlike Western astringent toners, which may be irritating to the skin, Japanese and Korean toners, often called “lotions” in Japan, are all about hydrating. They rebalance skin pH, make the skin softer for future products, and enhance moisture retention. Look for the inclusion of hyaluronic acid, rice water, or green tea to provide extra moisture.
3. Hydrating the Skin with Essence
Essence is a rich, watery liquid that thoroughly hydrates and prepares the skin for better uptake of serums and moisturizers. This phase is the mainstay of Korean skincare and will usually be combined with fermented items, snail mucin, or niacinamide to create smoother and more luminous skin.
4. Targeted Treatment with Serums and Ampoules
Regardless of what your skin issue is – dryness, acne, or wrinkles – serums and ampoules contain concentrated ingredients tailored to your skin’s need. Japanese skin care favors plant extracts like ginseng and rice extract, while Korean skin care incorporates ingredients like Centella Asiatica and propolis to soothe and heal the skin.
5. Sealing in Moisture with a Light or Heavy Cream
Hydration is the key to glowing skin, and a quality moisturizer seals in all the previous layers of hydration. Depending on your skin, you can go for a light gel (fantastic for oily skin) or a thicker cream (perfect for dry skin). Japanese moisturizers prefer a focus on a “mochi skin” texture—soft, plump, and springy—whereas Korean skincare aims for a dewy “glass skin” look.
6. Protection from the Sun for Healthy Skin in the Long Term
Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine. Korean and Japanese sunscreens are both lightweight, non-greasy, and packed with skincare benefits. Using sunscreen on a daily basis prevents sunspots, premature aging, and UV damage, keeping your skin radiant and youthful-looking.
How Often Should You Follow a Japanese and Korean Skincare Routine?
Korean skincare is not just a regimen—it’s a ritual of self-love that unlocks your skin’s natural radiance. But with so many steps, you may be thinking, how often should you do each step of the Japanese skincare routine? The good news? You don’t have to do all ten steps every day! Let’s break it down to discover the ideal balance for your skin.
Daily Steps for Healthy Skin
Some of the steps in a Korean skincare regimen should be done daily to maintain your skin’s health and hydration:
Cleansing (Twice a Day) – Morning gentle cleanse and nighttime double cleansing (oil cleanser + water-based cleanser) remove impurities, makeup, and excess oil.
Essence – A light product that quenches and increases skin renewal, used best daily for overall benefits.
Sunscreen (AM only) – The golden rule of skincare! Apply sunscreen every morning, rain or shine, to protect against UV damage and premature aging.
Weekly Treatments for Extra Care
Some skincare steps don’t need to be done daily but can be added 2-3 times a week to enhance your routine:
Exfoliation – Apply a mild exfoliator (chemical or physical) to get rid of dead skin cells and clear pores, making your skincare products more effective.
Sheet Masks – These moisture-infusing masks provide your skin with an added radiance. Use them 2-3 times a week for a quick pick-me-up.
Occasional Treatments for Special Care
Certain treatments should be used sparingly so as not to overload your skin:
Sleeping Masks (1-2 times a week) – These night masks deliver intense hydration and nourishment, ideal for fatigued or dry skin.
Final Thoughts
Achieving glowing skin with Japanese and Korean skincare methods is all about consistency, hydration, and choosing the right products for your skin type. By following these six steps, you’ll not only enhance your complexion but also enjoy a self-care ritual that keeps your skin healthy and beautiful in the long run. So, why not start today and let your skin glow with confidence?
