A Korean skincare routine is built around layering, applied thinnest to thickest. You do not need every step, and most people build up gradually. Here is the order and what each step does.
1. Oil cleanser or cleansing balm
The first cleanse removes makeup, sunscreen and oil-based residue. Oil-based cleansers dissolve products that water alone will not lift. Browse Korean cleansers.
2. Water-based cleanser
The second cleanse removes sweat and water-soluble residue. Together the two steps are known as double cleansing. Gel and foam cleansers sit in this step.
3. Toner
A toner is applied after cleansing, on a cotton pad or with the palms. In Korean routines toners are usually lightweight and used to add hydration before serums. See Korean toners.
4. Essence
An essence is a lightweight liquid step applied after toner. It is thinner than a serum and often used across the whole face.
5. Serum or ampoule
This is the targeted step. Serums and ampoules carry concentrated ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol, peptides or PDRN. If you use more than one, apply the thinnest first. See Korean serums and ampoules.
6. Sheet mask (optional)
Sheet masks are used a few times a week rather than daily. Apply after serum and before moisturiser. See Korean face masks.
7. Eye care
Eye creams, serums and patches are applied around the eye area, patted gently rather than rubbed. See Korean eye patches.
8. Moisturiser
Moisturiser seals the layers underneath. Textures range from light gel creams to richer barrier creams, and many people use a lighter one in summer and a richer one in winter. See Korean moisturizers.
9. Sunscreen (morning only)
Sunscreen is the final morning step, applied after moisturiser and before makeup. It is skipped at night. See Korean sunscreens.
Evening variations
At night, sunscreen is replaced by heavier treatments. Retinol and exfoliating steps are usually used in the evening. Overnight masks and sleeping packs go last, after moisturiser.
A simple starting routine
If you are beginning, four steps are enough: a cleanser, a toner, a moisturiser and a sunscreen. Add a serum once that is consistent, and build from there.
Shop the steps
Kourienty stocks Korean skincare in Lebanon from COSRX, SKIN1004, Medicube, Dr.Althea, Anua and more, with delivery across Lebanon. Questions about which step suits you? Message us on WhatsApp at +961 70 37 31 38.