Best Korean Skincare Routine
When I first heard about the famous 10-step best Korean skincare routine back in 2018, I thought everyone had lost their minds.
Ten steps?
I’ve got four kids, a husband and a house that looks like a tornado hit it on a good day. Who has time for ten steps?
But the thing about Korean skincare that got me hooked, it’s not about the number of steps. It’s about actually understanding what your skin needs and treating it properly.
And after 16 years as a bridal makeup artist working with every skin type imaginable, I can tell you that Korean skincare brands absolutely know what they’re doing.
Why Korean Skincare Actually Lives Up to the Hype
Before I dive into my top picks, let me tell you why I even bothered trying Korean skincare in the first place.
Working as a bridal makeup artist, I had this bride…lovely Bengali girl, getting married in the summer heat, who had the most gorgeous, glowing skin I’d ever seen.
Naturally, I asked her what she used, expecting some fancy £200 cream. She pulled out this little bottle that cost about £15 and said, “Korean skincare, babes. Changed my life.”
That conversation sent me down a proper rabbit hole (typical me, innit?). I started researching, testing products on myself between client appointments, and honestly? The results were mad. My skin hadn’t looked this good since… well, since before I had kids, let’s be real.
What Makes Korean Skincare Different?
Korean beauty brands focus on:
- Prevention over correction – They’d rather you maintain healthy skin than fix damaged skin
- Hydration is everything – Seriously, they’re obsessed with moisture (and they’re right)
- Gentle, effective ingredients – Less harsh chemicals, more natural extracts
- Affordable innovation – You don’t need to spend your mortgage to get results
My Top Korean Skincare Products
Let me break down the products I’ve personally used and would actually recommend to my mates. These aren’t just random picks, I’ve tested these on my own face, on clients and some have survived the ultimate test: my chaotic bathroom shelf.
Best Korean Cleanser: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
This cleanser is brilliant for morning use, especially if you’ve got combination or oily skin. It’s got a slightly acidic pH (around 5.5), which sounds scary but is actually what your skin wants.
I started using this after I quit doing bridal makeup full-time in 2024. Suddenly, I wasn’t wearing heavy makeup daily, and my skin was confused. This gentle cleanser helped balance everything out without stripping my skin dry.
Why I love it:
- Doesn’t leave that tight, squeaky-clean feeling (you know the one)
- Contains tea tree oil, so it helps with the occasional breakout
- One tube lasts ages (important when you’re feeding four kids)
- Under £10 usually
Best Korean Toner: SOME BY MI AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner
Hear me out on this one. The name sounds like marketing nonsense, but this toner genuinely helped fade some pigmentation I’d had since my youngest was born (she’s 5 now, so that’s saying something).
What it does:
- Gently exfoliates without scrubbing
- Helps with texture and those tiny bumps
- Brightens overall skin tone
- Controls oil without drying you out
Pro tip from a mum: Don’t use this every single day. Start with twice a week and build up. I learned this the hard way when I got excited and used it daily – my skin was not happy with me.
Best Korean Essence: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
Yes, it’s got snail slime in it. No, don’t let that put you off. This was genuinely one of the first Korean products I tried back in 2019, and I keep coming back to it.
When I was working those 12-hour wedding days, my skin would get absolutely knackered. This essence became my secret weapon for keeping my skin hydrated and plump, even when I’d been awake since 5am doing bridal prep.
What makes it special:
- Intensely hydrating without being heavy
- Helps heal blemishes faster
- Makes your other products absorb better
- That slip-y texture feels lovely
Real talk: The texture is a bit… slimy. But you get used to it, and the results are worth it. My 16-year-old daughter nicked mine once and now she’s obsessed too.
Best Korean Sheet Mask: Mediheal N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule Mask
Sheet masks are where Korean skincare absolutely shines. These Mediheal ones are my go-to when I need a quick skin pick-me-up.
I’ll be honest, as a mum of four, I don’t do sheet masks every day. But when I’ve got 20 minutes (usually after everyone’s in bed and I’m watching something rubbish on Netflix) these are brilliant.
Why they work:
- Packed with hyaluronic acid for hydration
- The masks actually fit properly (not sliding off)
- Give instant glow before events
- Affordable enough to use regularly
Mum hack: I keep a few in the fridge. On those mornings when I’ve had zero sleep and look like I’ve been dragged through a hedge backwards, a cold sheet mask for 15 minutes works wonders.
Best Korean Moisturizer: Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream
This moisturiser saved my skin during the winter months. Living in London, the weather plays havoc with my skin – cold outside, heating inside, and my poor face doesn’t know what’s happening.
The SoonJung line is designed for sensitive skin, which mine became after years of wearing heavy makeup for work and not always taking it off properly (don’t judge me, we’ve all been there).
What I love:
- Super gentle, no fragrance
- Rich but absorbs quickly
- Works under makeup brilliantly
- Helps repair your skin barrier
Best Korean Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+
Let me get on my soapbox for a second. WEAR. SUNSCREEN. EVERY. DAY.
I don’t care if it’s raining, snowing, or you’re just popping to Tesco. Sunscreen is non-negotiable, especially if you care about preventing premature aging and pigmentation.
This Beauty of Joseon sunscreen is the first one that doesn’t make me look like I’ve dunked my face in a bucket of oil or leave a white cast on my brown skin.
Why it’s different:
- No white cast (massive for us brown girls)
- Doesn’t pill under makeup
- Actually feels nice on your skin
- Contains rice extract and probiotics for extra skin benefits
Personal story: I didn’t start wearing daily sunscreen until I was in my mid-30s, and I genuinely regret it. The pigmentation from my pregnancies would’ve been much less severe if I’d protected my skin properly. Learn from my mistakes, yeah?
How to Actually Use Korean Skincare (The Realistic Mum Version)
The internet will tell you that you need 10 steps morning and night. The internet is chatting rubbish.
Here’s my actual routine as a mum who barely has time:
Morning Routine (5 minutes max):
- Cleanser – Quick wash with COSRX Good Morning Cleanser
- Toner – Pat in (don’t wipe, pat – saves cotton pads and money)
- Essence – Few drops of snail mucin
- Moisturizer – Light layer
- Sunscreen – Non-negotiable
Evening Routine (10 minutes if I’m lucky):
- Double cleanse – Oil cleanser first, then gel cleanser
- Exfoliating toner – 3-4 times a week
- Essence – Snail mucin again
- Sheet mask – Once or twice a week
- Moisturizer – Thicker night cream
Weekend Treat:
- Proper face massage while applying products
- Sheet mask while watching telly
- Maybe a sleeping mask overnight
Korean Skincare for Different Skin Concerns
For Pigmentation and Dark Spots
If you’re dealing with pigmentation (and let’s be real, most brown girls are), these Korean products are brilliant:
Some By Mi Galactomyces Pure Vitamin C Glow Serum
This vitamin C serum helped fade some stubborn dark spots I’d had for years. Use it in the morning under sunscreen for best results.
For Acne-Prone Skin
COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid
My daughter uses this for her teenage breakouts, and it’s been a lifesaver. Much gentler than the harsh stuff I used when I was her age.
For Dry, Dehydrated Skin
This overnight mask is like giving your skin a massive drink of water. Wake up looking less like a zombie.
What I Learned From My Korean Skincare Journey
After years of testing these products (on myself and on hundreds of brides), here’s what I’ve figured out:
1. Consistency beats complexity Using three products regularly will give you better results than using ten products sporadically. Trust me on this.
2. Your skin will change What worked in your 20s might not work in your 30s. What worked before kids definitely won’t work after. Adjust accordingly.
3. Expensive doesn’t always mean better Some of my favorite products cost under £15. Korean brands prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for good skincare.
4. Patch test everything I once got so excited about a new serum that I slapped it all over my face. Cue a rash the day before a wedding I was working. Learn from my stupidity.
5. Sunscreen is your best anti-aging product I cannot stress this enough. Everything else is just bonus.
Building Your Korean Skincare Routine on a Budget
Look, I know what it’s like trying to juggle skincare with a family budget. Here’s how to start without breaking the bank:
Starter Kit (Under £50):
- COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
- COSRX Snail Mucin Essence
- Etude House SoonJung Cream
- Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF50+
That’s your basic routine sorted. Add other products gradually as you figure out what your skin actually needs.
Money-saving tips:
- Buy during sales (Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday)
- Korean beauty sites often have better prices than high street shops
- Sheet masks in multipacks work out cheaper
- One good product used consistently beats ten products used randomly
Where to Buy Korean Skincare in the UK
Online:
- Amazon (obviously – quick delivery, easy returns)
- YesStyle (huge selection, but shipping takes forever)
- Stylevana (good prices, slow shipping)
- Cult Beauty (curated selection, UK-based)
Physical Stores:
- Some Boots stores have K-beauty sections now
- Oliver Bonas stocks certain brands
- Independent K-beauty shops in bigger cities
Pro tip: Amazon is usually my go-to because I’m impatient and I’ve got Prime.
FAQ About Korean Skincare
Is Korean skincare suitable for brown skin?
Absolutely! Korean skincare works brilliantly on brown skin. Just make sure you’re choosing products without harsh brightening ingredients if you’re worried about lightening. Stick to hydrating and barrier-repairing products.
How long before I see results?
Most people see hydration improvements within days, but for issues like pigmentation or texture, give it at least 4-6 weeks. Skincare isn’t magic – it takes time.
Can I use Korean skincare while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Generally yes, but avoid products with retinol, high-strength acids, or certain essential oils. I used basic hydrating products during all my pregnancies. When in doubt, check with your GP.
Do I really need all 10 steps?
Absolutely not. The 10-step routine is a maximum, not a requirement. I do 4-5 steps most days and my skin’s fine. Do what works for your lifestyle.
Will Korean skincare work on mature skin?
Yes! Many Korean brands focus on anti-aging and skin barrier repair, which is perfect for mature skin. The hydration-focused approach is actually brilliant for aging skin.
Are Korean skincare products tested on animals?
Many Korean brands are cruelty-free, but not all. Check individual brands if this is important to you. Brands like COSRX, Klairs, and Dear Klairs are cruelty-free.
Can men use Korean skincare?
Of course! My husband nicks my COSRX cleanser regularly. Skin is skin, regardless of gender.
Final Thoughts: Is Korean Skincare Worth It?
After years of using Korean skincare – both personally and professionally, I can honestly say it’s absolutely worth trying. These products taught me that skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive to work.
The focus on hydration, gentle ingredients, and prevention rather than aggressive correction just makes sense. And as someone who’s spent nearly two decades working in beauty, I can tell you that Korean brands are doing something right.
Start simple. Get a basic routine down. See how your skin responds. Then build from there if you want to.
And most importantly? Be patient with your skin. It took me 39 years to figure out what works for me, and I’m still learning. Your skin is unique, and finding what works is a journey, not a destination.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to go rescue my snail mucin essence from my teenage daughter’s room. Again.
Ready to start your Korean skincare journey? Which product are you most excited to try? Drop a comment below and let me know! And if you’ve already tried any of these, I’d love to hear about your experience.
