Being in the era of trends where the “clean girl aesthetic” remains supreme, it’s vital that I found not only the perfect skincare routine to fix my acne but to also make me “That Girl.” Like most, I’ve had acne all over my face and it frustrated me to no end. I’d try countless products like CeraVe, La Roche Posey and even dermatologist-prescribed face washes. Yet, somehow each one left my skin in a worse condition than when I started it. I’ve spent most of my life utterly distraught about the fact that I didn’t have perfect skin, and in this day and age where media consumption is at its peak, seeing all these flawless girls only made it worse. However, after years of trial and error, I have found the routine of all skincare routines that has changed my life.
Now, I’m not a huge believer in trends that come out of TikTok, but I will preface that I found the key to my success by coming across a video on how to get the perfect “Korean Glass Skin.” I had seen many people on my FYP talk about this “Glass Skin” and saw how there was no texture or lines to these faces. I also knew that Korea has some of the best and most serious skin care regimens. So, it seemed like something I should try, because why not. After watching video after video on TikTok and then researching each product, I finally began my skincare journey to have Korean Glass Skin.
After taking about six to seven weeks to slowly incorporate each product (so as to not irritate the skin), I began to see just how coveted this process was. My acne flare-ups were less, my skin became as soft as silk and just overall my face was shining! The changes happened so much to the point where other people were seeing a difference and complimented me. I truly felt like I had achieved the greatest thing in life. So, without further ado, here is my current daytime routine and each product I use!
1. Time to Cleanse
To start off, I wash my face (a classic, you knew this was coming). I use a Gel Cleanser, one that gets really foamy, as per the Korean suggestions. My favorite one is the Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser by Cosrx. This was a really good choice for me because my skin does tend to be quite sensitive and this one is super gentle!
2. Next, Toner
Following getting my face washed and dried, I get a small makeup pad and pour some toner on it to then dab lightly on my face. I use the I’m From Rice Toner and definitely think it adds a nice refreshing feeling to my face without being too heavy.
3. Essence
Now, this step was something totally new to me. I had never heard of “essence” before, but quickly found it was a vital part of Korean skincare. Essence is essentially a water-based product that is meant to help boost your skin health and it is my absolute favorite part of my routine. I use the Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence also by Cosrx, and it is my ride-or-die product. If I was stranded on an island alone, this is what I would bring. I’m truly convinced this is the product that made the biggest difference in my skin. It made it so shiny I started to see why this was called “Glass Skin.”
4. Serums
I only recently started adding in serum to my routine for some extra “glow,” but so far, I am loving it too. I add my serum on after I do the snail essence, but I like to wait a while so my face isn’t too sticky or hard to absorb the product. I use a glow serum from Beauty of Joseon that can be found here.
5. Barrier Cream
Every good skincare routine needs a moisturizer. I use Soon Jung’s 2x Barrier Intensive Cream by Etude as my choice of moisturizer. This cream is so light on my face I love it. I’m usually really picky about how creams sit on my face and this one feels invisible. This one in particular also works hard to strengthen the barrier between the skin and the outside bacteria, therefore keeping away potential acne. I also really love this other moisturizer, Essential Comfort Firming Cream, from Sulwhasoo, but usually opt to use the first option because it’s more in my budget.
6. Sunscreen
Something I had also never done before now, is wear sunscreen. I suppose this is very much a taboo thing to say, as everyone is supposed to wear sunscreen every day. Theoretically, it’s a miracle worker. Well, it is. I’ve been wearing sunscreen now for almost two whole months and the pigmentation in my face has gone down considerably. The kind I use is Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics Set, also from Beauty of Joseon. This is my second favorite product and I would honestly never give it up. It’s light and doesn’t smell like beach sunscreen— perfect.
I truly have seen some amazing results from changing up my skincare routine to follow this multi-step Korean one. My skin is soft and glowing, and I feel like the ultimate “It Girl” with having such an organized routine. This morning skincare is my absolute favorite, and I wouldn’t trade my experience or results for anything!
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