What is the order of a Korean skincare routine?

The order of a Korean skincare routine is: oil cleanser, water-based cleanser, toner, essence, serum or ampoule, eye cream, moisturizer, and SPF during the day. Products are applied from thinnest to thickest texture. You adjust the routine to your skin type and skin needs.

1. Oil cleanser
2. Water-based cleanser
3. Toner
4. Essence
5. Serum or ampoule
6. Eye cream
7. Moisturizer
8. SPF (morning)

The golden rule: from thin to thick

Many people wonder which products to apply first in a Korean skincare routine. In a Korean skincare routine, products are always applied from thinnest to thickest texture. This means you start with light, watery products and end with richer, fuller formulas.

Thin products, such as toner and essence, absorb faster and prepare the skin for the next steps. They hydrate and ensure that active ingredients can be absorbed better. Thicker products, such as serums, creams, and SPF, seal the previous layers and help retain moisture in the skin.

If you reverse the order, for example, applying a cream first and then a serum, the lighter product may not be absorbed as well. The richer texture then forms a barrier, making active ingredients less effective.

By applying products from thin to thick, you support the effectiveness of each product and get the most out of your skincare routine.

Step-by-step explanation of the Korean skincare routine

Oil cleanser (only in the evening or when wearing makeup/SPF)

An oil cleanser removes makeup, SPF, and sebum. Oil dissolves oil, so this is ideal for loosening anything "greasy" without harsh scrubbing. How to use: massage onto dry skin (30–60 sec), then emulsify with a little water and rinse off.

Water-based cleanser

This is your second cleanse (gel/foam/cream cleanser). It removes sweat, dirt, and oil cleanser residue, leaving your skin clean.
How to use: on damp skin, gently massage and rinse. Choose a mild cleanser if you have sensitive skin.

Toner

A toner rebalances the skin and provides a first layer of hydration. It prepares your skin for the subsequent steps.
How to use: in your hands or on a cotton pad, gently pat into the skin. For dry skin, patting is often more pleasant.

Essence

An essence is usually slightly richer than toner and focuses on extra hydration and repair. Think of it as an intermediate step that can make your skin feel plumper and calmer.
How to use: apply a small amount to your hands and gently pat it in.

Serum / ampoule

This is the step with the most targeted action. Serums/ampoules often contain active ingredients for specific purposes, such as:

• Vitamin C (dullness/pigmentation)
• Niacinamide (pores/redness)
• Centella (calming)
• Retinol (fine lines and wrinkles)

How to use: 2–3 drops, apply and let absorb. You don't always need to layer multiple serums; one good serum is often enough.

Eye cream

Eye cream is intended for the delicate skin around the eyes: to hydrate, soften, and support.
How to use: an amount the size of a grain of rice per eye, gently pat in (do not rub).

Moisturizer

The moisturizer seals everything in, locks in moisture, and supports your skin barrier. This is the step that keeps your skin comfortable, especially if you use active ingredients.
How to use: a thin layer is often enough; for dry skin, it can be a bit richer.

SPF (morning only)

SPF is the last step in the morning and protects against UV damage, which is important for pigmentation, skin aging, and sensitive skin.
How to use: apply generously (face + neck) and ideally reapply every few hours in strong sun.

Additional steps in a Korean skincare routine

In addition to the daily basic routine, there are also extra steps you can add a few times a week, depending on your skin type and skin needs.

Exfoliant (2–3 times a week)

An exfoliant removes dead skin cells and helps to make the skin smoother and more even. This can be a chemical exfoliant (such as AHA or BHA) or a mild enzyme peel.

Use an exfoliant after cleansing and before toner. This allows the product to work directly on clean skin. Don't overdo it: 2 to 3 times a week is usually sufficient, especially for sensitive skin.

Face mask (1–3 times a week)

A face mask gives the skin an extra boost. Depending on the type of mask, it can hydrate, calm, or deeply cleanse.

Use a mask after a toner or essence and before a serum. This allows the skin to optimally benefit from the active ingredients. A mask is not a daily step, but a supplement when your skin needs extra care.

Is a 10-step Korean skincare routine really necessary?

No, a 10-step Korean skincare routine is not mandatory. The idea behind the Korean skincare routine is not to use as many products as possible, but to apply layers that suit your skin type and skin needs.

For some people, an extensive routine can be pleasant, especially when the skin needs extra hydration or targeted care. But for many skin types, a basic routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting is already sufficient.

The most important thing is to listen to your skin. Do you have sensitive skin? Then less is often more. Are you using active ingredients like retinol or exfoliants? Then a good moisturizer and SPF are important.

A Korean skincare routine is therefore not about ten fixed steps, but about a well-thought-out order and products that complement each other.

Korean skincare routine order in short

Morning routine:

1. Cleanser (not always necessary for everyone)
2. Toner
3. Serum
4. Cream
5. SPF

Evening routine:

1. Oil cleanser
2. Water cleanser
3. Toner
4. Essence
5. Serum
6. Cream

Do you want to put together products for your Korean skincare routine? Check out our products and choose the ingredients that suit your skin type.

Frequently asked questions about the Korean skincare routine

Do you have to follow a 10-step routine every day?

No, a 10-step routine is not mandatory. You only choose the steps that suit your skin type and skin needs.

Can you use retinol in a Korean skincare routine?

Yes, retinol can be used in the evening routine. Build it up slowly and always combine it with an SPF during the day.

What if you have sensitive skin?

Do you have sensitive skin? Then choose mild, fragrance-free products and calming ingredients like centella. Avoid combining too many active ingredients at once and introduce new products one by one to prevent irritation.