K-Skincare Guide
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Level 0: Skincare Basics

Learn the basic routine in the order of cleanse → hydrate → protect.

  1. 1

    Cleanse (Cleanser)

    Gently remove dirt, oil, sunscreen, and makeup from your skin.

    • You need this both morning and evening. In the evening, wash away sunscreen, makeup, and oil buildup from the day. In the morning, remove oil and dead skin cells from overnight.
    • Use lukewarm water (32–36°C) and gently massage for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Hot water can weaken your skin barrier.
    • If your skin doesn't feel tight 30 minutes after cleansing, your cleanser strength is right. If it does, consider a gentler formula.

    Here's How It Changes

    • · When your skin surface is clean, hydration and sunscreen often work better.
    • · Severe tightness after cleansing may mean your cleanser is too strong or you need more hydration.
    • · Consistent cleansing is the foundation for managing breakouts and oil balance.

    Try This

    • · If you wear makeup or sunscreen in the evening, consider double cleansing.
    • · Moving to hydration (toner, moisturizer) within 3 minutes of cleansing often reduces tightness.

    It's Better to Avoid

    • · Don't cleanse more than 3 times a day or use scrubs and exfoliants daily.
    • · If your skin feels 'squeaky clean' after cleansing, your cleanser may be too strong.

    Usage Methods by Product

    Tap to view usage method

    Cleanser· UsageDouble Cleansing· UsageSkin Barrier· Usage
  2. 2

    Hydrate (Moisturize)

    Replenish water and oil right after cleansing to reduce tightness.

    • The basic order is toner (optional) → moisturizer or lotion. Serums are optional, and often a single moisturizer is enough at first.
    • Apply first to dry areas like cheeks and lips, and use less on the oily T-zone if needed.
    • Hydration alone can cause dryness in dry environments if not sealed with a moisturizer, so finish with one.

    Here's How It Changes

    • · Tightness and rough texture may decrease, and skin may look softer.
    • · After hydration, you may notice less pilling or sliding of base and sunscreen.
    • · Over time, once your skin barrier stabilizes, sensitivity reactions often decrease.

    Try This

    • · Start hydrating right after cleansing while your skin is still slightly damp.
    • · Before makeup, apply a light lotion or moisturizer thinly and wait 2–3 minutes.

    It's Better to Avoid

    • · Don't skip hydration and apply only sunscreen.
    • · Don't use toner, serum, moisturizer, and eye cream all at once if you're starting out.

    Usage Methods by Product

    Tap to view usage method

    Toner· UsageSerum· UsageMoisturizer· UsageHyaluronic Acid· Usage
  3. 3

    Protect (Sunscreen)

    The final step to protect your skin from UV damage.

    • UVA can pass through glass indoors and during commutes, so applying sunscreen daily after morning hydration is a good habit.
    • Use SPF 30+ and PA+++ as a baseline. Apply about one finger-tip amount (1–2g) evenly to your face, neck, and ears. Reapply every 2–3 hours for best protection.
    • In the evening, cleanse thoroughly with a cleanser. Sunscreen residue can clog pores.

    Here's How It Changes

    • · Can help prevent tanning, hyperpigmentation, and photo-aging.
    • · With consistent use, you may slow down existing spots from worsening.
    • · Sunscreen habits are foundational for managing skin tone and breakouts.

    Try This

    • · Wait 1–2 minutes after hydration before applying sunscreen.
    • · Reapply after going outside, exercising, or swimming.

    It's Better to Avoid

    • · Don't skip hydration and apply only sunscreen.
    • · Don't rely only on high SPF numbers while neglecting proper amount and reapplication.

    Usage Methods by Product

    Tap to view usage method

    Sunscreen· UsageSPF· UsagePA· UsageMineral Sunscreen· UsageChemical Sunscreen· Usage
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  • Beginner Korean Skincare Routine & Good Basics →
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