Skincare 101
✨ Skincare 101: The K-Beauty Guide to Glowing, Dewy Skin
By Flora | K-Beauty Editor
If you're even a little curious about Korean skincare, chances are you've heard about that famous “glass skin” glow. It’s not just about piling on highlighter or faking it with filters—K-beauty is all about building naturally radiant, healthy skin from the inside out.
As a Korean woman and total skincare lover, I grew up in a culture where skincare is basically self-care. And if there's one rule we all swear by? Hydration is everything.
Whether you’re new to K-beauty or just want to understand the why behind each step, here’s your ultimate beginner's guide to that hydrated, shiny skin Koreans are obsessed with.
Step 1: Cleanse—But Make It Gentle
Double cleansing is a classic K-beauty move—and for good reason. It’s the key to removing every trace of makeup, sunscreen, and grime without stripping your skin.
Start with a first cleanser like an oil-based cleanser or a rich cleansing cream. Both work beautifully to melt away makeup and dissolve SPF (yes, even waterproof). Oil works like a magnet to pull out oil-based impurities, while creamy textures are perfect if your skin leans dry or sensitive and you prefer a softer, more cushiony feel.
Then follow with a water-based cleanser (like a gel or foam) to wash away sweat, dirt, and any leftover residue.
🧴 Pro tip: Your skin should feel clean but never tight. If it feels squeaky, your cleanser may be too harsh.
Step 2: Layer On a Hydrating Toner (Yes, Layers!)
K-beauty toners are totally different from the old-school, alcohol-packed ones. They’re light, watery, and packed with humectants that hydrate your skin instead of stripping it.
Here’s the secret: Layer it 3 to 7 times. We call it the “7-skin method,” and it’s a game-changer for dry or dull skin. Tap, don’t rub.
💦 Why it works: Each layer builds moisture deep into the skin for that plump, elastic, chok-chok (dewy) texture.
Step 3: Bring in the Glow with a Serum or Essence
This is where your glow gets serious. Choose a serum that targets your skin’s needs, but make sure it’s packed with hydrating stars like:
• Snail mucin (for repair and bounce)
• Hyaluronic acid (for deep moisture)
• Beta-glucan or rice extract (for glow and barrier support)
✨ Editor fave: I love layering essence before serum for an extra hydration boost—think of it like prepping the skin for maximum glow payoff.
Step 4: Moisturizer Is Not Optional
No matter your skin type, you need to lock in the hydration. Oily skin? Go for a lightweight gel cream. Dry or combo skin? Try a creamy, cushiony texture with ceramides or panthenol to repair and protect your barrier.
🔒 Key takeaway: Skipping moisturizer is the #1 glow killer.
Step 5: Sleep Your Way to Better Skin
One of the easiest K-beauty hacks? Sleeping masks. They're richer than your regular moisturizer and seal in all the goodness overnight. You’ll wake up with that juicy, bouncy look—no filter needed.
💤 Glow tip: Use 2–3 times a week for a visible difference in morning radiance.
Step 6: Don’t Forget Your Sunscreen (Yes, Even Indoors)
The final glow step isn’t optional—SPF is your best friend. Korean sunscreens are famously lightweight and often give a natural dewy finish, so they layer perfectly under makeup.
☀️ What to look for: Broad spectrum, SPF 50+, with hydrating or tone-up properties.
So... Why Is Glow Such a Big Deal in K-Beauty?
In Korea, glowing skin = healthy skin. We don’t aim for matte or flat—we want skin that reflects light in the prettiest way. The goal is to look fresh, hydrated, and smooth, like you just walked out of a spa. It’s not about covering up your skin. It’s about showing it off.
Editor’s Picks: 5 Korean Glow Boosters to Try
1. Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – for intense hydration + texture repair
2. TONYMOLY Hyaluron Low Molecule 10X Toner – the layering toner that gives glass-skin vibes
3. MISSHA Cell Renew Snail Sleeping Mask – wake up with silky, radiant skin
4. ILLIYOON Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream – a glow-locking moisturizer for dry skin
5. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ – hydrating, lightweight, and glowy
Final Thoughts
Glowing skin doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen with consistency. Hydration, gentle care, and the right layering techniques are what make Korean skincare stand out. Think of your routine as a ritual—not a chore.
Because let’s be real: hydrated skin looks better, feels better, and glows from within. And that? Never goes out of style.
With love and vision,
Flora
Art Director
Beyond Bougie Beauty