We've all been there before, your skin is breaking out or too dry, and you've tried every product in the skincare aisles at your local stores but nothing ever works. I know the beginning of this article sounds like an infomercial, but bear with me, that is exactly where I was at until I discovered Korean Skincare. I'm definitely not an expert on dermatology, but my experience with it has been great so if you're out of options and wanting to try something new for your skin then maybe this is for you! A very basic Korean Skincare routine will have four to five steps, but you can also have more steps or less depending on what you do or use.

Deep Cleanse

Before washing your face, if you wear make up, you should take that off using make up remover or wipes first! Afterwards, wet your face with water then use a cleanser to wash your face! It is recommended to get one that foams well and, while you can use your hands to spread the cleanser over your face, using a facial cleansing brush is recommended! When using a facial cleansing brush, pick one with soft bristles and use a slower speed, you want it to cleanse your skin but if it is too hard and rough it can damage your skin.

Toner

Toner is the starting base for your skin care routine and it's used to help balance your skin pH and to immediately moisturize your skin lightly. Toner is like water, it's very liquid, so when applying it, take some and pat it onto your face or add some onto a cotton pad and apply all over your face.

[Add On] Face Mask

Two to three times a week it is recommended for you to use a sheet face mask for your skin! These are especially great for those days when you feel really lazy because all you do is apply toner after cleansing and then put a face mask on, and, after about 10 - 20 minutes depending on the mask you use, you're done! There are SO many different face masks from so many different brands and there are a bunch that even come with design! Not only are they good for your skin, they also make for fun selfies.

[Add on] Ampoule/Serum

Serum or ampoules are condensed, heavy moisturizers used for various reasons depending on the type you get. For example, there are acai berry ampoules for whitening and moisturizing and bee venom serums for acne, so you can have various types and use them for the type of skin you have! When using, take two to three drops on the palms of your hands, rub them together, and then use your hands to kind of hug your face to let your skin absorb.

Eye Cream

On a regular skincare regimen, the next step would be to add eye cream to your eyes. Eye cream is used to prevent eye wrinkling as well as to get rid of and prevent dark circles in the eyes. When applying eye cream, take some and use your ring finger to lightly pat around your eyes.

Emulsion/Essence

After applying eye cream, you should get ready to massage the emulsion or essence onto your face, both have similar effects. Essence or emulsion is similar to a basic face lotion except it is not as heavy and you apply it through your skin then massage it for hydration.

Moisturizer/Lotion/Cream

The final step to a basic skincare routine would be the lotion, which is usually the heaviest layer. Apply the lotion to your skin and lightly pat your skin for better absorption of all of your products and you're all set!

[Add On] Sleeping Mask

After you are finished with everything, one to two times a week, it is also recommended that you add a sleeping mask to your routine. A sleeping mask is usually gel-like and you just spread it all throughout your face then go to sleep, so that it can work while you sleep to provide your skin with nutrients and moisture! The next morning, all you have to do is wash it off!

Typically you should follow these steps right before bed so that you can clean all of the dirt and oil that you've accumulated over the day and so that your skin can really absorb all the good that you're giving it. Personally, it also feels really relaxing to do at night. Depending on what kind of skin you have, you should look around and see what kind of products to use. Since your skin is different every day and there are multiple layers and steps, it is also a good idea to get different types of products and mix and match. There are of course, so many other steps not even listed and products that you can try depending on what you need and what time of day it is! On top of all these steps, to get the best benefits, you should also stay hydrated, eat more fruits, and try going to the sauna more often!