If you’d told me a month ago that I’d be patiently layering ten different products onto my face every morning and night, I would’ve thought you were joking. I mean, honestly, between juggling life in my 40s and trying to just get through the day, skincare wasn’t exactly high on my priority list. My routine was barely a routine: splash some face wash, maybe a moisturizer if I remembered, and occasionally sunscreen if I felt like it.
What Makes Korean Skincare So Special?
Before I share what happened, I want to explain why Korean skincare routines are more than just a trend. I had the chance to chat with Charlotte Cho, founder of Soko Glam, who helped introduce this philosophy to the U.S. She told me that in Korea, skincare is part of everyday life—like brushing your teeth. It’s not about fixing problems after they appear but about preventing them and treating your skin with respect every single day.
Charlotte also shared a beautiful idea called jeong—a Korean concept about deep connection and kindness. That’s exactly what this routine felt like for me: a gentle, daily act of love toward myself.
My Simple but Powerful Routine
Let me be clear—this didn’t take hours. The products worked together, layering hydration and care without demanding too much time or energy. Here’s what I used:
Face:
- Cleansing Balm to gently melt away impurities
- A mild powder cleanser for a soft exfoliation
- Toner pads that left my skin feeling fresh and awake
- Essence to boost hydration and nourish
- Eye cream to soothe tired eyes
- A rich moisturizer that calmed my skin
- Sunscreen every morning to protect and care
Hair and Scalp:
- A shampoo packed with biotin and amino acids that made my scalp feel alive again
- A leave-in treatment (yes, it has snail mucin!) that strengthened and smoothed my hair
Body:
- A gentle scrub that left my skin baby-soft and subtly scented with pear and lavender
The Changes I Felt — Inside and Out
The first few days were a little confusing—learning the order, figuring out what worked. But by the end of the first week, this routine became comforting, even enjoyable. My skin, which had been dull and tired, started to glow again. Fine lines softened, and the texture became smoother, like my skin was breathing deeply after holding its breath for too long.
More surprising was how this ritual affected my mind. Living with ADHD and anxiety means my thoughts are often a whirlwind. But spending a few moments each morning and evening focused on gentle, purposeful care helped me find calm in the chaos. It felt like telling my stressed-out brain, “You matter. I’m here for you.”
Is It Worth the Effort?
Without a doubt, yes. I don’t always do all ten steps, but the core routine—cleanse, essence, moisturize, and sunscreen—has become a non-negotiable part of my day. It feels like giving myself permission to pause and nurture, even when life gets hectic.
On weekends or when I need an extra boost, I treat myself to a full routine or a scalp massage. These moments of self-kindness are no longer an indulgence but a vital part of my wellbeing.
What I’ve Learned
Korean skincare isn’t just about looking good. It’s about connecting to yourself with patience and kindness. It’s about showing up for your skin—and for yourself—every single day. And honestly, in a world that’s often so fast and overwhelming, that’s been one of the most healing parts of this whole journey.
So, yes, my skin looks healthier and more radiant than it has in years. But more importantly, I feel more grounded and at peace. And to me, that’s priceless.
Also Read : Best Night Serums for Dry Skin: Wake Up Hydrated
