Achieve That Radiant “Glass Skin” Glow – Step by Step
Are you ready to glow with confidence and finally enjoy a skincare routine that actually feels good? 
Whether you’re completely new to skincare or just curious about the famous Korean routine, this guide will help you start strong, no confusion, no overwhelm.
Let’s walk through the essential K-Beauty steps in a way that’s beginner-friendly, effective, and simple. 
Why Try the Korean Skincare Routine?
Because it works, gently and beautifully.
Korean skincare is all about nourishing your skin, not punishing it. It’s built on the values of prevention, consistency, and layered hydration, which means fewer breakouts and more glow over time.
Top Benefits:
Achieve that healthy, luminous “glass skin” look
Address issues like acne, dullness, or dryness without harsh products
Build a soothing, self-care ritual you’ll actually stick with
Good news: You don’t need 10 steps or a big budget to start. Let’s begin with the core 5-step routine that delivers visible results in just a few weeks.
Step 1: Double Cleansing, The K-Beauty Foundation
Double cleansing is the #1 rule in Korean skincare. Why? Because clean skin is happy skin.
👉 “Learn how to double cleanse properly for oily skin”
What It Means:
Oil-based cleanser: Removes sunscreen, makeup, and sebum.
Water-based cleanser: Washes away sweat, dirt, and residue.
Why It Works:
This two-step method prevents clogged pores and sets the stage for your skincare products to actually absorb.
Product Picks:
Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (gentle + bestselling)
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (great for all skin types)
Tip: Massage each cleanser for 1–2 minutes to stimulate circulation and make it feel like a mini spa moment.
Step 2: Toning – Prepping for Hydration
Think toners are just drying alcohol water? Not in K-Beauty! Korean toners do really restore your skin’s natural pH, add hydration and prep for absorption.
What to Look For:
Hyaluronic acid, green tea, or centella asiatica for hydration and calming.
Product Picks:
Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Toner (super hydrating)
Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Toner (gentle exfoliating option)
Pat it in with your hands. No cotton pad needed.
Step 3: Essence – The Secret to That Glow
Essence is the soul of Korean skincare, more hydrating than a toner, but lighter than a serum.
Why It’s a Must:
Boosts skin cell turnover
Hydrates and plumps
Helps brighten dull complexions
Product Picks:
Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence (a cult favorite)
COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (repair + hydration)
Gently press it into your skin — no rubbing.
Step 4: Moisturizing – Seal In the Glow
Yes, even oily skin needs a moisturizer. Hydration ≠ oiliness.
What to Choose:
Dry skin: Cream moisturizers (e.g. Etude House Soon Jung Barrier Intensive Cream)
Oily/acne-prone: Lightweight gels or emulsions (e.g. Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel)
Moisturizers lock in all the goodness and strengthen your skin barrier.
Step 5: Sunscreen – The Real Anti-Aging Hero
You can follow every skincare step perfectly but if you skip sunscreen, you’re undoing your hard work.
Why Sunscreen Matters:
Prevents dark spots, wrinkles, and uneven tone
Shields your skin from UV damage (even indoors!)
Product Picks:
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF 50+ (non-greasy, hydrating and my favorite !)
Purito Daily Go-To Sunscreen (fragrance-free + reef-safe)
Use it daily, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors near windows.
Optional Steps to Upgrade Later
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try adding 1 or 2 of these:
Serums: Target specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, or aging.
Try: Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle SerumSheet Masks: Use 2–3 times a week for deep hydration.
Try: Mediheal N.M.F Aquaring Ampoule MaskExfoliators: 1–2 times a week (gentle chemical ones like By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5%) to smooth texture.
Start slow. These are bonus steps, not daily essentials.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Skincare isn’t about perfection it’s about connection. Connecting with yourself, your needs, and your confidence.
Your Beginner Routine:
Double Cleanse
Tone
Essence
Moisturize
Sunscreen
Stick to this for at least 3–4 weeks, and take gentle notes of how your skin responds.
Celebrate the little wins! less redness, smoother texture, a healthy glow.
Have a question? Drop it in the comments