5 Surprising Facts About Korean Skincare You Didn't Know
Korean skincare has taken the world by storm, and it’s not hard to see why! From the dewy "glass skin" to the plump, bouncy "mochi skin," K-beauty has brought us some unexpected trends and ingredients—hello, snail mucin and Centella Asiatica. But there’s so much more to K-beauty than just viral trends. At Banila Co, we’ve been perfecting the art of skincare for years, and we're here to share five surprising facts about Korean skincare that’ll have you rethinking your routine!
Mastering K-Beauty
The Key to Clear Skin? Proper Cleansing
Is a Toner Really an Optional Step?
Skincare Rich in Active Ingredients
The Iconic 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine
Daily Sunscreen is a Must
Final Thoughts: Banila Co Has Your Back
1. The Key to Clear Skin? Proper Cleansing
When it comes to clear skin, cleansing is everything. In Korean skincare, it's not just about removing makeup at the end of the day—it’s an entire ritual. That’s why double cleansing is a staple in K-beauty. This two-step method ensures that no traces of dirt, oil, or makeup are left behind, giving your skin the perfect clean slate.
Step 1: An oil-based cleanser is used to gently dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. And this isn’t something to rush—K-beauty enthusiasts recommend massaging an oil cleanser into your skin for up to 60 seconds to ensure a deep, thorough cleanse.
Step 2: A water-based cleanser removes any remaining oils and ensures your skin is left feeling deeply clean and refreshed. But in Korean skincare, this isn’t just a quick rinse! We recommend rinsing thoroughly with lukewarm water—never too hot or too cold—and gently patting your skin dry with a soft, clean towel. Harsh rubbing? Definitely a no-no!
At Banila Co, we ensure you have everything you need to make double cleansing a luxurious experience. Our Clean It Zero Collection includes 8 different cleansing balms, each formulated to target specific skin types and concerns, from hydration to brightening effects. Pair it with the Clean It Zero Foam Cleanser to give your skin a powerful antioxidant boost. Packed with Panax Notoginseng Root Extract and Acerola Fruit Extract, this cleanser offers a powerful antioxidant boost to protect and nourish your skin while leaving it deeply cleansed, refreshed, and hydrated.
2. Is a Toner Really an Optional Step?
For many, toner might seem optional, but in Korean skincare, it’s an essential step. After cleansing, toner helps to balance the skin’s pH, hydrate, and prepare it for the next products. Korean toners aren’t just about wiping your face clean—they’re about adding an extra layer of moisture and nourishment to your skin.
To maximize hydration, try the 7-Skin Technique, a K-beauty secret where you layer toner on your skin up to 7 times. If 7 layers seem excessive, start with 2 or 3. The key is to let each layer absorb fully before adding the next, which helps lock in moisture and leaves your skin feeling plump and dewy.
At Banila Co, we offer a variety of toners and toner pads designed for exfoliation, nourishment, and hydration. Whether you use them as a quick swipe, a mini sheet mask, or to target specific areas, our toners provide that extra step to elevate your skincare routine.
Tip: If you notice dirt on your cotton pad after toning, it means your cleansing step wasn’t thorough enough. Be sure to cleanse your skin properly before moving on to toning.
3. Skincare Rich in Active Ingredients
One of the standout features of Korean skincare is the use of potent active ingredients that target specific skin concerns. K-beauty products combine ancient Korean herbal medicine with modern science to create highly effective skincare. Popular ingredients like Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid, and Vitamin C are now staples in many routines, but Korean skincare also uses more unique ingredients like Centella Asiatica and Snail Mucin, which have gained worldwide popularity.
Centella Asiatica is a healing plant known for soothing sensitive or irritated skin, making it perfect for calming redness and inflammation. Our Overnight Soothing Cica Sleep Mask is packed with 76% Centella Asiatica Leaf Water, helping to hydrate and protect your skin as you sleep.
Snail Mucin, though it may sound unusual, is packed with nutrients that help repair damaged skin, improve elasticity, and reduce the appearance of scars. It’s a powerhouse ingredient, especially for those looking to repair and regenerate their skin.
4. The Iconic 10-Step Korean Skincare Routine
You’ve probably heard of the 10-step Korean skincare routine, and while it may sound like a lot, it’s a ritual that ensures your skin gets the care it deserves. Don’t worry, you don’t have to follow all 10 steps every day (although some K-beauty enthusiasts do!). Here’s the breakdown:
- Oil-Based Cleanser
- Water-Based Cleanser
- Exfoliation (just 1-2 times a week, making sure not to over-exfoliate)
- Toner
- Essence (bridging the gap between toners and serums)
- Serums & Ampoules (focused on targeted solutions)
- Sheet Mask (at least twice a week, for that extra care)
- Eye Cream
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
For those extra pampering days, a clay mask helps balance oil production and cleanse pores deeply. But remember, consistency is key—your skin will thank you for the extra TLC.
5. Daily Sunscreen is a Must
In Korea, sunscreen isn’t just a step in the skincare routine; it’s a way of life. Koreans are extremely diligent about protecting their skin from harmful UV rays, and their commitment to sun protection is something we can all learn from. Sunscreen is applied generously every day to the face, neck, ears, and hands. It’s also reapplied every two hours, and many opt for additional protection like hats, sunglasses, and UV-blocking clothing.
Incorporating sunscreen into your daily routine is essential for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Don't forget to apply it as the final step in your skincare routine, and protect yourself from sun damage all year round.
Final Thoughts: Banila Co Has Your Back
Korean skincare might seem like a lot to take in at first, but once you discover the importance of proper cleansing, active ingredients, and daily sun protection, you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re diving into the iconic 10-step routine or just adding a few key K-beauty products, you’ll soon notice a difference in your skin. Let Banila Co guide you on your journey to glowing, youthful skin with our high-quality skincare products, tailored to meet your needs. Ready to elevate your skincare routine? We’ve got your back every step of the way.
