A beginner's K-beauty routine: the Korean skincare we stock

Korean skincare has a reputation for ten-step routines, but you don't need anything like that to see why it's so popular. The real appeal is in gentle, hydrating formulas that layer well and feel lovely on the skin. Here's an easy five-step routine using the K-beauty favourites we stock.

1. Cleanse (twice in the evening)

K-beauty routines often start with a double cleanse: an oil cleanser to melt away sunscreen and makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser. The SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Light Cleansing Oil is a lightweight option that rinses clean. In the morning, a simple splash or gentle cleanser is plenty.

2. Prep with a toner or toner pad

Toner pads are a quick way to refresh skin after cleansing. The medicube Zero Pore Pad Mild 2.0 uses gentle exfoliating acids with soothing ingredients, so start with a few evenings a week and see how your skin feels.

3. Treat with an essence or serum

This is where K-beauty shines. The COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence is one of the best-known Korean products in the world, loved for the bouncy, hydrated feel it leaves. If your skin is easily upset, the SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule is a calming, almost water-light choice.

4. Moisturise

Seal everything in with a moisturiser. The COSRX Advanced Snail 92 All in One Cream is a soft gel-cream that suits most skin types. For a little extra care around the eyes, the COSRX Snail Hydrogel Eye Patches make a nice weekend treat.

5. Protect with SPF (mornings)

Korean sunscreens are famous for feeling like skincare rather than sunscreen. The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ is a lightweight favourite that sits well under makeup. Apply it as the last step every morning.

Keep it simple

Start with three steps (cleanse, moisturise, SPF) and add an essence or toner pad once you know how your skin responds. Introduce one new product at a time and patch test anything new. Browse all our Korean favourites in Skincare.