It has been over 10 years for me working with Amorepacific group in India, and I am very happy to state that it was my first introduction to Korean skincare. Over the past years heading marketing for Korean Beauty brands—such as Laneige: known for its innovation and hydrating products, Innisfree: a brand made from Jeju island’s best ingredients and focus on clean beauty, Sulwhasoo: a brand about ancient Korean herbs for youthful, radiant skin and lastly, Etude: a vibrant and fun makeup brand—has come with its own perks.
This access to world class brands, didn’t just come with the Korean products you need to know but understanding how Koreans take care of their skincare and how the emphasis is always on overall wellness. Thanks to my work, I have understood the importance of ingredients and I have come to truly appreciate the value of high-quality ingredients and their transformative effects on different skin types.
MY LOVE AFFAIR WITH KOREAN BEAUTY
My love for Korean skincare began with the launch of Innisfree in India, which stirred up excitement across the country. Everyone was eager to try the iconic Green Tea Seed Serum, and I got my hands on it before the official launch. Since then, it’s been a staple in my routine and cannot imagine my routine without it.
Having worked on this vast portfolio along with my Korean colleagues, I have also come to know of some thumb rules that are followed by them and how skincare should be looked at holistically.
A FEW SKINCARE TIPS TO FOLLOW
- Consistency is a key in skincare.
- Stick to a routine of cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection for healthy, radiant skin. My recommendation is avoid falling for trends, focus on a consistent routine tailored to your skin type and expert advice.
- Prioritize scientifically-backed ingredients like antioxidants and sunscreen.
- Your skincare routine should address your skin-specific needs, whether it’s dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity, and work accordingly for a clear, radiant complexion.
KOREAN SKINCARE ROUTINE FOR YOUR 40S
Skin type: Dry to combination
AM ROUTINE
Step 1: HYDRATE
I begin my morning skincare routine by hydrating with 1 litre of water and engaging in yoga or a gym workout to invigorate both body and mind. After showering, I follow a fundamental CSMS routine (Cleansing, Serum, Moisturising, and Sunscreen).
STEP 2: CLEANSE
For cleansing, I use Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam. This is my preferred cleanser because it leaves the skin moisturised without causing tightness or dryness, providing the perfect start to my skincare regimen.
STEP 3: TONER
Toner is a crucial step in my Korean skincare routine, and I always recommend toners to my friends and family, especially those with busy lifestyles. They are easy to use and provide excellent hydration. I alternate between LANEIGE Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturizer and Sulwhasoo Essential Comfort Balancing Water. I keep the Cream Skin Refiner handy in my bag for on-the-go application, particularly on days filled with meetings outside the office.
STEP 4: MOISTURISER
On days when I’m not using the Cream Skin, I apply LANEIGE Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Cream for deep moisture.
STEP 5: SPF
For sun protection, I rely on Innisfree Hyaluron Moist Sunscreen SPF50+ PA++++, which leaves no white cast and feels super light and refreshing on the skin.
PM ROUTINE
STEP 1: DOUBLE CLEANSE
In the evening, my routine begins with double cleansing. First, I use Innisfree Apple Seed Cleansing Oil, followed by Innisfree Volcanic Cleansing Foam. This combination effectively removes any pore-clogging debris and impurities, creating an ideal base for the rest of my skincare products to absorb seamlessly into the skin.
STEP 2: SERUM
After double cleansing, I activate my skin with Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum
STEP 3: TONER
The serum is again followed with my favourite toner, LANEIGE Water Bank Serum.
STEP 4: EYE CARE
Cannot skip the eyes. I use the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream (which comes with an amazing applicator) on my under eyes.
STEP 5: SEAL IT ALL IN
Lastly, I use the Water Sleeping Mask which acts as a blanket for my skin, keeping it wrapped in moisture throughout the night.
WEEKLY ROUTINE
Twice a week, I treat my skin to the Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask followed by a sheet mask to reset and recharge. This combination deeply cleanses and hydrates, leaving my skin refreshed and revitalised.
A tip: Keep the LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask in a skincare fridge or regular fridge and apply it on hot summer days for a wonderfully refreshing effect.
Lastly, I’d like to emphasise that while many perceive Korean skincare as intricate and multi-step, the key is to understand your skin’s unique needs rather than simply following trends. Personalised care ensures that each step brings you closer to healthy, glowing skin. Skincare in your 40s need not be a complicated ritual but something you can follow consistently.
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