Basic Skincare Steps for Beginners

In recent years, the Korean 10 step skincare routine has exploded in popularity with those hoping to look like their favorite K-Pop idol or model.

For most people, though, a 10 step skincare routine can seem overwhelming and time-consuming. Thankfully, your routine doesn’t have to be so complicated.

Easier routines with fewer skincare steps can be just as effective, as long as you know the basics. Use these essential steps and products for healthy and clear skin.

Wash Your Face

No matter your skin type, washing your face is an essential step that should never be skipped. When you wash your face, you remove pore-clogging dirt, oil, and makeup.

Even if clogged pores aren’t one of your skincare concerns, cleansing your skin gives you a clean, blank slate for your other skin-enhancing products.

Cleansing should come first in both your morning skincare routine steps and your evening routine. While double cleansing (using two types of cleaners back-to-back) has grown in popularity, using one effective face wash is typically enough.

Read more on facial cleanser importance and how to choose one for your skin type.

Moisturize Your Skin

Moisturizing and hydrating your skin is important to keep your skin healthy and prevent signs of aging.

There are several types of moisturizers on the market. Some are heavy, while others are light. You can find lotions, eye creams, toners, and other moisturizing products.

For a simple routine for beginners, start with one moisturizer. Apply it after patting skin dry, and go light around the eyes.

For those who have dry skin, using both a toner and moisturizer can help add much-needed hydration.

Use Sunblock

Your morning skincare steps should always include sunscreen.

Sun damage can prematurely age your face. While avoiding the sun is one way to prevent damage, wearing sunblock is another effective way to protect your skin.

After washing and moisturizing skin, apply a layer of sunblock to your face, neck, and other exposed skin.

Final Touches

For some, your routine may only include three basic skincare steps. For others, an additional step can be useful depending on your unique skin type and concerns.

In the evening, you may want to try using serums, spot treatments, and essences after moisturizing. For example, try a product with retinoids to prevent aging. Or if you struggle with acne, use this step to apply a spot treatment.

Then, let those products sink in and work overnight to help you improve your skin while you sleep.

Exfoliate Sparingly

Though exfoliation shouldn’t come last in your routine, it’s listed last because it should not be done every day.

Many people over-exfoliate, which can lead to redness, burning, peeling skin, breakouts, and other skin issues. Only exfoliate once or twice a week.

This step can be incorporated into your routine in different ways. You can exfoliate while washing by using a gentle facial brush. You can also try using a gentle scrub while your face is wet after cleansing. Even some face masks, like clay masks, can work to gently exfoliate the skin.

Simple Skincare Steps for Great Skin

For most of us, less is more. A simple skincare routine can be easier to remember and actually follow each morning and evening compared to a longer version with several products.

Though Korean skincare steps have become popular with beauty and skincare lovers, save yourself time and money with fewer skincare steps.

For more on everything related to beauty and skincare, read the latest articles on our blog!