According to dermatologists, following a consistent routine is way more helpful than doing a 10-step routine once in a while. It’s the small, daily habits that give you that healthy, natural glow. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a 5-Step very simple & basic Korean skincare routine for beginners — no stress, no fuss — just what really works.
Let’s do this together!
5-Step Basic Korean Skincare Routine for Beginners
Getting started with Korean skincare is much simpler than you think — and you’re already on your way to healthy, silky, and smooth skin. We’ve kept it realistic, helpful, and backed by expert advice, so you can follow these steps without being overwhelmed.
Step 1: Cleanser
Start by washing away dirt, oil, and makeup to give your skin a fresh start. Look for a gentle cleanser — one that leaves your skin feeling soft and comfortable, not tight or stripped.
This is really important because over-cleansing or using a harsh product can compromise your skin barrier.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a gentle cleanser helps keep your skin’s barrier strong, retaining hydration and reducing redness or irritation.
How to use it right:
Massage the cleanser into damp skin with your fingertips in small circles, then rinse with warm water. Gently pat your face dry with a clean towel — don’t scrub. This prepares your skin for everything that comes afterwards.
Step 2: Toner or Essence
After cleansing, adding hydration back into your skin is a key step. Toners or essences help ease dryness, prepare your skin to absorb subsequent products, and balance pH after washing.
According to Harvard Health, adding hydration at this point helps skin retain moisture and become more resilient.
Consider choosing a toner with glycerin or centella asiatica — ingredients known for their ability to ease redness and aid healing.
How to use it right:
Warm a few drops in your palms, then press them softly into your skin. This lets your skin drink up much-needed hydration and prepares it for the following products.
Step 3: Serum or Ampoule (For Extra Care)
This is your chance to target your skin’s particular concerns — whether that's texture, redness, dark spots, or fine lines. Serums or ampoules are lightweight, potent, and packed with powerful ingredients.
According to the Mayo Clinic, ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid can aid in smoothing texture, strengthening the skin barrier, and adding a youthful glow.
For a helpful option, you can try Beauty of Renforcer Light On Serum: Centella + Vita C. This lightweight formula combines centella for calming and strengthening with vitamin C for brightening.
To use:
Apply a few drops directly to your face after toning and let it absorb.
Step 4: Moisturizer
Moisturizer seals in all the hydration you’ve provided to your skin. This step forms a protective barrier, keeping your skin silky, smooth, and healthy.
According to dermatologists, a good moisturizer helps ease dryness, prevents water loss, and strengthens the skin barrier — making your skin less prone to redness, texture, or peeling.
Choose a rich or lightweight formula depending on your skin’s needs — oily skin might appreciate a lightweight, gel-like texture, while drier skin might prefer something rich and creamy.
To use:
Massage a small amount into your face and neck until it’s fully absorbed.
Step 5: Sunscreen in the Morning (Don’t Skip!)
Sunscreen is a crucial step — every single day — even if it’s cloudy or you’re staying indoors. UV rays can damage your skin — causing wrinkles, fine lines, texture issues, and even skin cancer — so protecting it every day really matters.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, wearing a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is the number one way to keep your skin healthy and youthful in the long term.
Consider trying Beauty of Renforcer Relief Sunscreen (Rice + Probiotics) SPF 50+ — it’s lightweight, non-greasy, and protects your skin while adding a bit of hydration.
Smooth a generous amount onto your face and neck in the morning — as the sweet last step in your routine.
Our Top Beauty of Renforcer Picks:
Here are a few products we think you’ll really love and find helpful in your Korean skincare routine:
✨ Relief Sunscreen (Rice + Probiotics) SPF 50+, $15 — lightweight, non-greasy, broad spectrum protection with added hydration.
✨ Vitamin C glow Serum: Centella + Vita C, $19 — a potent blend for reducing redness and adding radiance.
✨ Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal, $19 — for fine lines, texture, and skin renewal under the eyes.
✨ Deep Cleansing Oil, $19 — melts away dirt, excess sebum, and heavy makeup while retaining skin’s natural moisture barrier.
✨ Dynasty Cream, $22 — rich, silky texture to aid in skin repair, hydration, and strengthening.
And you can buy all these top picks in one place — right here at Cheon Beauty. You don’t need to worry about the quality, because we only carry the best products for your skin. Plus, we always have great deals going on, so make sure you check them out today!
Final Thoughts
When you follow these 5 simple steps — cleanse, hydrate, treat, moisturize, and protect — you’re honoring your skin’s natural barrier.
Just follow these 5 easy steps, pay attention to your skin, and make adjustments if you need to. Always listen to your skin — if it feels oily, heavy, or dry, you can cut back or add a bit more hydration.
And remember to:
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Drink plenty of water
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Get enough rest
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Protect your skin from the sun
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Less stress
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No harsh ingredients.
All these small habits add up over time.
You can find everything you need in one convenient place here at Cheon Beauty. We make sure to carry the highest quality products, and we’re always offering great deals, so you can take care of your skin without spending a fortune.
Don’t wait to show your skin some love!
Used Sources:
Harvard Health — Skin and Hair
Mayo Clinic — Facial Skin Care - Keeping Skin Healthy Looking
American Academy of Dermatology — Updated sunscreen advice: SPF30
