The Korean routine, edited: four steps that matter

Korean skincare is famous for its ten-step routine. In practice, most people in Korea use far fewer products. What they share is a way of thinking about layers: thin, watery textures go first, richer ones follow, and sunscreen closes the morning.

Here is the routine, edited down to four steps.

1. Cleanse

Start with a cleanser that removes the day without leaving skin tight. At night, if you wore sunscreen or makeup, many Koreans double cleanse: an oil or balm first to dissolve, then a gentle water-based cleanser.

2. Prep

Toners and essences in Korea are hydrating, not stripping. Pat a watery layer onto damp skin to prepare it for what comes next. This is where much of the famous Korean glow begins.

3. Treat

Serums and ampoules carry the concentrated ingredients — PDRN, peptides, niacinamide, vitamin C. Choose one or two goals rather than layering five actives at once.

4. Moisturize and protect

Finish with a cream to seal everything in. In the morning, sunscreen is the non-negotiable last step.

Four habits worth keeping

• Thin to thick. Apply from the most watery texture to the richest.
• One new product at a time. Patch-test and give your skin time to adjust.
• Consistency over quantity. A simple routine done every day beats a complicated one done occasionally.
• Give it time. Skin renews itself over weeks, not days.

Building it with the Launch Edit

Cleansers, toners and sun care are next in our curation.