If you’re curious about K-beauty but feel overwhelmed by the famous 10-step routine, don’t worry—you don’t need that many steps to start. A simple 5-step Korean skincare routine can give you glowing, healthy skin without being complicated.
Here’s everything you need to know (and the exact products to use).
1. Cleanser (Double Cleansing for Extra Glow ✨)
Korean skincare often starts with double cleansing—an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle water-based one.
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Why? Oil cleansers remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.
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Followed by a water-based cleanser to wash away sweat and dirt.
👉 Try:
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COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (gentle everyday option)
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Heimish All Clean Balm (oil cleanser to melt makeup + SPF)
2. Toner (Prep Your Skin 💧)
Unlike Western toners, Korean toners hydrate instead of stripping. They prep your skin to absorb serums and moisturizer better.
👉 Try:
3. Serum (Target Skin Concerns 🎯)
This is where K-beauty shines—serums are packed with active ingredients to target acne, dryness, fine lines, or pigmentation.
👉 Try:
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Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum (Rice + Arbutin) – for brightening and calming
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Medicube Hyaluronic Multi-Peptide Serum – for hydration + anti-aging
4. Moisturizer (Lock It All In 🪄)
Moisturizer seals in all the hydration and keeps your skin barrier strong. Even oily skin types need this step!
👉 Try:
5. Sunscreen (The Non-Negotiable ☀️)
The last and most important step: sun cream every morning.
Korean sun creams are famous for their lightweight, non-greasy textures.
👉 Try:
💡 Final Tips for Beginners
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Start with these 5 steps, then add extras (essence, exfoliator, sheet masks) later.
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Be consistent—K-beauty is about gentle care over time, not overnight results.
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Adjust based on your skin type: dry, oily, sensitive, or combination.
🛍️ Shop the Full Routine at thekshop.ca
We’ve curated the best authentic Korean skincare brands in Canada. Explore our skincare and K-Beauty collections to start your journey toward healthy, glowing skin.