If you’re not using an essence, you’re not doing it right.
Have you ever seen a Korean woman with bad skin? Didn’t think so… That’s because in South Korea, skincare isn’t something you slap on your face in the morning, it’s a way of life.
On a good day, you’d be lucky to find us cleansing our face and applying moisturiser in the morning. However, in Korea, a five-step skincare regime is considered the bare minimum, and a 10-step routine is standard.
Sounds like a lot — right? Well, that’s only because it is…
Here, Ruby Wang, founder of Australian K-Beauty retailer Nudie Glow, tells Cosmo about the five skincare products every Korean woman has in her bathroom:
1. OIL CLEANSER
Korean women start with “an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, followed by a good second cleanser for double cleansing.” Try Heimish All Clean Balm, $25 at Nudie Glow. Adds to shopping cart.
2. WATER-BASED CLEANSER
If you’re going to do the whole double cleansing thing, a water-based cleanser removes any leftover oil residue. Try Touch in Sol All Clear Ice Blue Water Cleanser, $19.99 at Priceline.
3. ESSENCE
“Essence is at the heart of the Korean skincare routine,” Ruby says. “If you ask any Korean woman the secret to their flawless skin, they’ll probably tell you it’s because of their essence. You'll see more results from an essence than any other products you use on a daily basis.” Try Missha Time Revolution the First Treatment, $55 at Nudie Glow.
4. SUNSCREEN
“Sunscreens are definitely a must-have skincare product in every Korean woman's bathroom.” Try Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face Superscreen SPF 50+, $40 at Mecca.
5. SHEET MASKS
Stashed away in every Korean woman’s bathroom, you’ll find “a stack of sheet masks.” Try Cosrx Holy Moly Snail Mask, $4 at Nudie Glow or Dr. Jart Mask Water Jet Vital Hydra Solution, $36 at Sephora.
