Winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin, from the frigid air to using heaters that leave you dry, itchy, flaky dehydrated skin that dulls your skin. Korean skincare is all about prevention and protection, the perfect combination to ensure your skin stays hydrated against the elements that work to strip your skin of nutrients. These traditional Korean skin care tips can help update your skincare routine to keep your skin protected all winter long.
Use an Oil-Based Cleanser – A soft cleanser that cleans the face without disrupting your skin's barrier is essential during winter. Korean skincare products with rice water and grain ferment can help keep your complexion radiant and soft no matter the weather outside.
Use a Gentle Exfoliator – Exfoliation is essential for gently removing dead skin cells to promote collagen production and enhance the look and health of your skin. Use an AHA-based exfoliator to gently remove skin cells while maintaining the healthy hydration of your skin. You want to avoid overdoing it with exfoliation and causing irritation by only exfoliating once or twice a week.
Use Warm or Tepid Water – Using hot water can further dry out and damage your skin. When you're already battling the elements, you want to limit damaging actions. Use warm or tepid water to wash your face and when you shower to reduce the risk of over-drying your skin.
Tone Your Skin – Korean toners are wonderful to add to your skincare routine and prep your skin to absorb moisture better. Use a toner without fragrances and natural ingredients to prepare your skin for moisturizers to last all day.
Add in an Essence – Adding in an essence is a step that can't be missed in any traditional Korean skincare routine. Essence is the step used to treat the skin on the cellular level to penetrate the skin to soothe and calm dry, red, and irritated skin. Most essences are packed with essential antioxidants to improve the elasticity of your skin and leave your skin brighter.
Seal in Moisture – Using a good moisturizer is essential in sealing in the nutrients and moisture to help improve your skin's protective barrier and enhance hydration. At the end of your skincare routine, choose a great creamy moisturizer to lock in moisture and brighten your skin.
Do Not Forget Sunscreen – Sunscreen protection is essential even in winter. Although the UV rays may not seem like they should be a problem, they are strong enough to penetrate and damage your skin all year round. They can speed up signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and more. Add an SPF to your skincare routine to protect your skin all year long.
Do a Sheet Mask – Adding a hydrating sheet mask to your skincare routine two to three times a week can help nourish and repair your skin. It's a great way to replenish your skin's moisture and help you achieve a healthy glow.
The Korean skincare routine is advanced and focused on boosting hydration, repairing your skin, and protecting against harsh elements during the colder months. Upgrade your skincare routine to relieve your winter skin woes and boost your confidence no matter the weather.