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Korean skincare is known for its focus on hydration, nourishment, and maintaining a radiant, glass-skin glow. Over the years, I’ve perfected a morning routine that not only makes my skin look and feel amazing but also sets the tone for the rest of my day. Each product I use has a specific purpose, working together to create a dewy, healthy complexion. Here’s my step-by-step guide to achieving hydrated, glowing skin using my favorite Korean skincare products.
Step 1: Oil Cleanser – Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil
The first step in any skincare routine should always be cleansing. Even in the morning, an oil cleanser is essential. Overnight, our skin produces sebum, and any residual skincare such as moisturizers or sleeping masks, and any impurities that may have settled on my skin while I slept can build up. The Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil gently melts away excess oil and impurities while soothing the skin. Heartleaf is known for its calming properties, making this cleanser perfect for sensitive skin. I massage this into my dry skin for about 30 seconds, then emulsify it with a bit of water before rinsing it off. My skin feels fresh but never stripped and dry.
Why I Love It:
- Removes impurities without stripping the skin.
- Gentle formula that’s perfect for morning use.
- Keeps my skin moisturized and smooth.
Step 2: gentle cleanser – THE FACE SHOP rice water bright foaming facial cleanser
After using an oil cleanser, it’s important to follow up with a water-based cleanser. The Face Shop’s rice water foaming cleanser is my absolute favourite cleanser right now! It’s enriched with rice water, known for its brightening properties, and has a creamy texture that lathers beautifully. This cleanser thoroughly washes away any leftover residue from the oil cleanser while leaving my skin feeling clean but not stripped. It also has a subtle, fresh scent that makes my face feel extra rejuvenated.
Why I Love It:
- Rice water is great for brightening and evening out skin tone.
- Provides a fresh, clean feeling without dryness.
- The creamy lather is luxurious and soothing.
Step 3: Hydrating & Brightening – Beauty of Joseon Glow replenishing Rice milk facial sebum Toner
Next, I apply the Beauty of Joseon Replenishing Rice Toner, which has quickly become one of my favorite toners. It is packed with rice extracts, amino acids and vitamins to brighten, tone, and deeply hydrate the skin. This toner balances pores to prevent excess sebum and oil production, leaving my skin brightened, hydrated and soft. After applying, my skin has a natural glow. I love how it balances and preps my skin for the rest of my routine, ensuring that everything else I apply absorbs efficiently. I pour a few drops into my hands and gently press it into my face, ensuring my skin drinks up all the goodness.
Why I Love It:
- Deeply hydrating, making it perfect for dry or combination skin.
- Brightening and calming effects from the rice extract.
- Lightweight formula that doesn’t leave a greasy residue.
Step 4: Deep Hydration – COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
If there’s one step I never skip, it’s applying the COSRX Snail Mucin Essence. This cult-favorite product is a hydration powerhouse; It’s packed with snail mucin, an ingredient known for its ability to repair damaged skin, boost hydration, and improve skin texture. My skin immediately feels plump, soft, and moisturised after application. The texture is a little sticky at first, but it absorbs beautifully. I take a few pumps, spread it across my palms, and gently pat it into my skin until fully absorbed. My skin instantly looks more radiant and plump and feels incredibly soft.
Whether I’m dealing with dryness or the occasional breakout, this essence has a way of calming my skin and restoring its natural balance.
Why I Love It:
- Helps with skin regeneration and hydration.
- Soothes irritation and enhances the overall texture of my skin.
- Perfect for anyone with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
Step 5: Nourishing Glow – Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum
Next comes the Beauty of Joseon Glow Oil for an extra layer of glow and hydration. I love this oil because it’s not too heavy and absorbs into my skin without leaving a greasy residue. Infused with rice bran water and arbutin to help even out skin tone and boost radiance, it helps lock in moisture and keeps my skin glowing throughout the day. This step gives my skin that signature Korean “glass skin” effect, making it look luminous and well-hydrated. I take a few drops of the serum and gently pat it into the skin.
Why I Love It:
- Gives my skin a healthy, natural glow.
- Hydrates without feeling heavy or greasy.
- Packed with antioxidants to fight off free radicals.
Step 6: Locking in Moisture – Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream
The Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream is my go-to morning moisturiser. This cream has a rich yet lightweight texture, blending nourishing ingredients like ginseng, niacinamide, and ceramides to deeply hydrate and fortify my skin barrier. The ginseng extract helps with skin elasticity and brightness, so it’s perfect for keeping my skin youthful and smooth. I love how it keeps my skin moisturised all day without feeling greasy. It also creates the perfect base for sunscreen and makeup!
Why I Love It:
- Provides long-lasting moisture throughout the day.
- Improves skin elasticity and texture.
- Calms and nourishes my skin, especially in colder weather.
Step 7: Sun Protection – Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 36
No morning routine is complete without sunscreen! It’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, especially in the morning when your skin is most vulnerable. The Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen is a lightweight, non-greasy SPF that protects my skin from harmful UV rays while adding a final layer of hydration. It offers broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast, and as a dark skin woman that is extremely important. I love that this sunscreen also contains ingredients like green tea and sunflower oil to keep my skin nourished while offering protection. It doesn’t pill under makeup and leaves my skin with a dewy finish—perfect for that effortless glow.
Why I Love It:
- Non-greasy, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly.
- Provides high SPF protection without a white cast.
- Keeps skin nourished while shielding it from UV damage.
Final Thoughts: Why I Love This Routine
This skincare routine has transformed my skin, leaving it consistently hydrated, plump, and glowing throughout the day. By layering hydrating products, locking in moisture, and always finishing with SPF, I maintain a healthy and radiant complexion. By using these Korean skincare staples, I’ve been able to maintain a balanced, glowing complexion and take care of my skin in the most effective way possible.
If you’re looking to elevate your skincare routine or just want to try something new, I highly recommend trying these products! Especially if you’re looking for a skincare routine that focuses on hydration and glow. Do you have a favorite Korean skincare step or product? Let me know in the comments!
Would you like me to add any personal touches, like how long I’ve been using this routine or how it has improved my skin over time? 😊
Hello! I hope you’re having a great day. Good luck 🙂