Double dosed skincare This is why Korean women live by the rule of double cleansing, double eye mask and double hydration in their skincare regimen. The step cleansing method includes a foaming face wash followed by an oil-based cleanser. This clears the skin of every last bit of makeup and dirt from face.
When it comes to skincare, Cho says Korean women use “natural skin brighteners such as rice extracts, vitamin C, and licorice, as well as exfoliators. For stubborn brown spots, they will visit the dermatologist to lighten the brown spots using lasers.”
Ever wondered why? It's because Koreans tend to view caring for their complexion as the ultimate investment, worthy of not only their money, even more so their time. In fact, most perform an intricate 10-step cleansing and moisturizing routine—every single night.
“Korean beauty brands heavily invest in research and development, resulting in cutting-edge formulations, and innovative ingredients that cater to a wide range of skin concerns,” says CosRx.
Koreans swear by the rule of double cleansing, double hydration and double masking in their skincare routine!
Koreans take skincare very seriously, and that is evident from their beautiful glowing skin. Not all of that is genetic. It's the result of an extensive skincare routine and naturally sourced hydrating extracts present in almost all Korean skincare ranges.
"Koreans have always focused on multi-step skincare that layers hydrating products to create that dewy, youthful look." To be clear, glass skin isn't about achieving a flawless or pore-less complexion (which would be unrealistic) — but getting your skin to its healthiest state yet.
By all accounts, South Korea is the most cosmetically advanced country on Earth.
Japanese skincare ingredients are so powerful that you can do less, but they're also extremely gentle. In contrast to Korean skincare, Japanese skincare prioritizes nourishing, gentle products that promote skin care and prevention.
In South Korea, there is immense societal pressure to conform to the community and societal expectations placed on the individual. This is evident in the theorization of what influences both Korean men and women to want to strive to achieve a strict beauty standard.
If you want to look young and have a great complexion, adapt a lifestyle similar to Japanese women who are known for having smooth, clear and youthful skin. Many Japanese women maintain a diet rich in vitamins and minerals that contain antioxidants.
Koreans have a longstanding and immense passion for taking care of their skin. In ancient Korean culture, it was believed that outward beauty reflected the inner self; that true beauty came from having radiant skin. Since 700 B.C., Koreans have been researching, developing and documenting skincare methods.
“According to my hair stylist, Korean women use a hair essence or oil every single day, which is why they have such silky, soft, and shiny strands.” A personal favorite for Cho is British M's Organics Annatto Hair Oil, while Lee is a fan of the Mise en Scene Pearl Shining Hair Essence.
Korean ladies use facial massage to promote circulation and bring oxygen and nutrients to the skin's surface. It's an amazing way to boost skin's radiance and combat fine lines and wrinkles. Start with a dab of your favorite facial oil or moisturizer. You can add a bit of your favorite serum for an extra boost.
Just as we Americans consider fitness and nutrition important for our overall health, Koreans think the same of skincare. According to Yoon, that's essential to remember. “In Korea, skincare is not seen as a vanity thing, it's not seen as a high-maintenance thing. It's seen as a way to take care of yourself.”
The ingredients and formulas remain practically unchanged although they promote an “individualized” product. Korean skin care focuses on using natural ingredients and is ahead of the game in beauty product innovation. American skin care has traditional creams and toners but Korean skincare is unique.
More Gentle Actives
Highly concentrated active ingredients are essential for preventing skin concerns, but Korean skincare prefers to use more gentle active ingredients without potential irritating side effects.
Many of us are simply used to at least covering the dark circles from the night before prior to showing up to work. However, in the Netherlands, you can be staring into your female boss' makeup-free face during the morning meeting — and no one bats an eyelash.
“Glass skin is this idea of transparent and translucent skin” explains Alicia Yoon, founder of Peach & Lily. “It's a sign of youthfulness and it's one of the most strived-for qualities in Korea. However, this combination of ultra-smooth texture and super translucency can be hard to achieve with products alone.
Moisturize and protect, of course.
Whether you choose to apply a separate moisturizer and sunscreen or just a very moisturizing sunscreen, hydration and protection are arguably the most important steps in the glass-skin routine.