The 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine Explained – Do You Really Need All 10?

If you’ve ever Googled “Korean skincare routine,” you’ve likely come across the famous 10-step method — a holy grail for glowing skin. But let’s be honest: Do you really need all 10 steps?

Let’s break it down — step by step — so you can build a routine that works for your skin, your schedule, and your lifestyle.

✅ 1. Oil Cleanser

Melts away makeup and sunscreen.
✨ Try: The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Oil Cleanser

✅ 2. Foam Cleanser

Cleanses deeper without stripping.
✨ Try: Cosrx Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

✅ 3. Exfoliator (2–3x/week)

Removes dead skin cells.
✨ Try: Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA Miracle Toner

✅ 4. Toner

Balances pH and preps skin.
✨ Try: Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner

✅ 5. Essence

Hydration + skin repair booster.
✨ Try: Missha Time Revolution Essence

✅ 6. Serum/Ampoule

Targets concerns (acne, wrinkles, pigmentation).
✨ Try: Medi-Peel Bor-Tox Ampoule

✅ 7. Sheet Mask (2–3x/week)

Deep treatment + relaxation.
✨ Try: Mediheal Tea Tree Mask

✅ 8. Eye Cream

Delicate care for thin under-eye skin.
✨ Try: K-Secret SEOUL 1988 Eye Cream

✅ 9. Moisturizer

Locks in all previous steps.
✨ Try: Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream

✅ 10. Sunscreen (AM only)

Essential for skin protection.
✨ Try: Thank You Farmer Sun Project Light Sun Essence

💡 SparkleSkin Advice:

You don’t need 10 steps every day. Think of it like a menu, not a to-do list. Start with 3–5 steps, and build based on your skin’s needs.