The Seven Steps of the Korean Night Skincare Routine

The Seven Steps of the Korean Night Skincare Routine


The Korean night skincare routine is often seen as one of the most detailed and disciplined beauty rituals in the world. With multiple steps and specific products, it can feel strict and even a little intimidating at first. But don’t worry - in this post, I’ll break down each of the seven steps and explain them in a simple way, so you can understand what’s included and how to make it work for your skin.



Step 1 + 2: Double Cleansing

Double cleansing is the foundation of the Korean night skincare routine. It involves using two different cleansers - one oil-based and one water-based - to ensure your skin is thoroughly clean without being stripped of its natural moisture.

Step 1: Cleansing Oil
The first cleanse is done with an oil-based cleanser. This step is especially important in the evening, as it helps break down makeup, sunscreen, excess sebum, and other oil-based impurities that build up throughout the day. Oil attracts oil, so it’s highly effective at removing residue that a regular foaming cleanser might miss. If you don’t wear makeup, this step still helps dissolve sunscreen and pollution particles that can clog pores.

Step 2: Foam or Gel Cleanser
The second cleanse uses a gentle water-based cleanser, usually a foam or gel formula. This removes any remaining impurities such as sweat, dirt, and water-based debris. It also ensures your skin is completely clean and ready to absorb the rest of your skincare products.

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Step 3: Toner

After cleansing, your skin’s pH balance can be slightly disrupted, and that’s where toner comes in. The main purpose of toner is to rebalance and prep the skin so it can better absorb the following skincare steps. Unlike the harsh, alcohol-heavy toners of the past, Korean toners are usually hydrating and soothing, acting as the first layer of moisture after cleansing.

  • For dry skin: A milky toner adds hydration and nourishment, leaving the skin soft and comfortable.

  • For oily or combination skin: A light, watery toner works best to refresh the skin without adding heaviness, helping control excess oil while still hydrating.

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Step 4: Essence

Essence is often described as the heart of the Korean skincare routine. Think of it as a bridge between your toner and serum - a lightweight yet powerful layer that preps your skin for the next steps.

Essences usually contain gentle active ingredients that deeply hydrate, boost radiance, and improve skin texture over time. They also enhance the absorption of serums, making your treatments work more effectively. With regular use, essence can help the skin look plumper, smoother, and more luminous.

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Step 5: Serum / Ampoules

This is the treatment step of your skincare routine - where you target specific skin concerns with concentrated active ingredients. Serums and ampoules usually contain higher doses of powerful ingredients that penetrate deeply into the skin.

Some common options include:

  • Vitamin C: Brightens skin and helps fade dark spots.

  • Niacinamide: Balances oil production and minimizes pores.

  • Retinol: Stimulates cell turnover and smooths fine lines (best used gradually and only at night).

  • Hyaluronic Acid: Provides intense hydration and plumps the skin.

Choose a serum or ampoule based on your skin’s needs, and remember that you don’t have to use every ingredient at once. Sometimes less is more, especially when working with stronger actives.

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Step 6: Extra Care — Eye Cream & Sheet Masks

Before sealing everything in with your moisturizer, this is the perfect stage to give your skin a little extra love. Korean skincare routines often include optional treatments like eye creams and sheet masks, depending on your skin’s needs.

  • Eye Cream: The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate, making it more prone to dryness, fine lines, and puffiness. A lightweight eye cream can help hydrate, brighten, and protect this sensitive area. Gently tap the product in with your ring finger to avoid tugging.

  • Sheet Masks: These are soaked in a concentrated essence that delivers an instant boost of hydration and nutrients. They’re not for daily use but are great as a pampering treat a few times a week, or whenever your skin feels dull and tired.

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Step 7: Moisturizer / Sleeping Mask

The last step of the Korean night skincare routine is all about sealing everything in. A good moisturizer helps lock in hydration and ensures that all the nourishing ingredients from your previous steps stay on the skin to work overnight.

  • Moisturizer: Choose a cream or gel formula depending on your skin type. Creams are ideal for dry skin, while gels feel lighter and suit oily or combination skin.

  • Sleeping Mask: If you’re using a sleeping mask, it can replace your regular moisturizer. These masks create a breathable barrier that deeply hydrates and repairs the skin while you sleep, so you wake up with a plump, refreshed complexion.

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 ✔ If you want to know what worked for me  👉 My routine here
✔ Want more? → Shop all my skincare recommendations  👉 here


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