Korean women have become known world wide for the attention to detail and care that they show towards their skin.
I bought some products directly from Korea and mixed them with some of my staples. I did this eight step routine for a full month.
1. Oil based cleanser:
An oil based cleanser is massaged into the skin and breaks down makeup, dirt and build-up. I used the hydrating cleansing oil from Simple and loved using it to draw out the makeup, impurities and excess oil on the surface of my skin. The grape seed oil was gentle on my skin and didn't leave my skin feeling stipped.
2. Water- based cleanser
Double cleansing is clinically proven by dermatologists to clean your skin. This process makes sure all the build up, dirt, oil and sweat is thoroughly removed. My skin has never felt so clean than by doing this double cleansing process.
3. Exfoliate
So I decided to invest into a chemical based exfoliator: The Neogen Bio-peel TeaTree Exfoliator was what I use to remove and replace the dead skin cells and unclog my pores. This step was my favourite step in the whole routine. My skin never felt so fresh and clear. I did this step once a week.
4. Toner
This step dampens the skin, preps and restores the pH. I wet a cotton pad with Simple Toner and wipe it around my face to balance my skin and get it ready for the moisture section of the skin routine.
5. Essence
Essences are the heart of the Korean skincare process. They are very light but still concentrated with hydrating and anti-ageing ingredients. I invested in another Korean product. The Time Revolution hydrating Essence. This didn't agree with my skin as I'd hope but it is still recommended by many influencers!
6. Treatment
Boosters, serums and ampoules are used to treat and nourish the skin. They're packed full of ingredients that hydrate the skin, tackle hyperpigmentation and reduce fine lines. I use the Simple hydrating booster. I loved this step and really felt like I was taking care of my skin.
7. Sheet Mask
This is the most iconic part of the whole routine. But does it work? The sheet mask is soaked in active ingredients such as Hyaluronic acid, Activated charcoal or Vitamin C. I used a variety of masks and the prolonged contact of these ingredients onto my skin really helped feel like it was infused into my skin. As well as this, it was the most relaxing part of my day.
8. Moisture
For me this was the last step. It helped to lock in all the moisture from the last 4 steps.
After thoughts
I was most worried about using a tonne of products and irritating my skin. Some products worked wonderfully (Neogen Exfoliating Pads) whilst others caused my to react (Time Revolution Essence). Overall I definitely noticed how fresh my skin felt and noticed how even my skin tone was. This routine was my favourite part of my day and I looked forward to coming home to my daily facial.
9. The extras:
Hygeine! I made sure I changed my towels everyday and my pillowcases weekly. I wiped my phone case and tried to keep my hands of my face to prevent bacteria from being transferred onto my face.
Hydration: I ate an entire watermelon a day as well as drinking half a gallon of water a day.
Watch me do the full challenge