Korean skincare has become increasingly popular over the years, and for good reason. The Korean approach to skincare emphasizes a thorough, multi-step routine that focuses on hydration, nourishment, and protection. This approach can be especially effective for those with acne-prone skin, as it helps to balance the skin's natural oil production and prevent breakouts. In this post, we'll explore a Korean skincare routine using products from Atelier De Glow, specifically tailored to those with acne-prone skin.
Step 1: Double Cleanse
The first step in any Korean skincare routine is double cleansing. This involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to ensure that all traces of makeup, dirt, and oil are removed from the skin.
Best Korean skincare products for Double Cleansing:
The Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
This balm is formulated with rice water and rice bran oil, which help to brighten and nourish the skin. It also contains chamomile extract, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to calm and soothe inflamed skin.
The Some By Mi AHA.BHA.PHA 30 Days Miracle Foam
This cleansing foam contains a combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), and polyhydroxy acids (PHAs), which work together to exfoliate dead skin cells, unclog pores, and remove impurities from the skin. It also contains tea tree oil and niacinamide, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent breakouts and soothe inflamed skin.
Step 2: Tone
After cleansing, it's important to use a toner to balance the skin's pH levels and prepare it for the next steps in the routine.
Gentle exfoliation
Many Korean toners contain gentle exfoliating ingredients, such as AHAs and BHAs, which can help to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. This can help to prevent acne and improve the overall texture of the skin.
Hydration
Some Korean toners are formulated with hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help to hydrate the skin without clogging pores. This is important for those with acne-prone skin, as dehydrated skin can produce more oil, which can lead to breakouts.
Soothing and calming
Many Korean toners contain ingredients that can help to soothe and calm inflamed skin, such as tea tree oil, centella asiatica, or chamomile extract. This can be especially beneficial for those with acne-prone skin, as inflamed skin can lead to more breakouts.
Best Korean skincare products for Toning:
COSRX AHA/BHA Clarifying Treatment Toner
This toner is formulated with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), which help to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. It also contains mineral water and snail secretion filtrate, which can help to hydrate and soothe the skin.
The SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner
This toner is formulated with 100% Madagascar Centella Asiatica extract, which is known for its soothing and healing properties. It is also alcohol-free and free of harmful chemicals, which can be beneficial for those with acne-prone skin that is easily irritated. Centella Asiatica extract has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm and soothe inflamed skin, reducing the severity of acne breakouts.
Step 3: Treat
The third step in the routine is to use a treatment product that targets acne and other blemishes.
Best Korean skincare serums:
Some By Mi AHA-BHA-PHA 30 Days Miracle Serum 
This serum contains a combination of AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs, which work together to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog pores. It also contains tea tree oil and centella asiatica extract, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help to prevent breakouts and soothe inflamed skin.
iUNIK Tea Tree Relief Serum:
This serum is formulated with 67% tea tree leaf water, which has antibacterial properties that can help to fight acne-causing bacteria. It also contains centella asiatica extract, which can soothe and calm inflamed skin. This serum is lightweight and absorbs quickly, making it an ideal choice for layering under other skincare products.
Step 4: Moisturize
The 4th and final step in the routine is to moisturize the skin to keep it hydrated and protected.
Best Korean skincare moisturizers:
Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel:
This gel moisturizer contains 80% aloe vera and propolis extract, which can help to soothe and hydrate the skin without clogging pores. Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm inflamed acne-prone skin. Propolis extract has antibacterial properties that can help to fight acne-causing bacteria. This moisturizer has a lightweight, gel-like texture that absorbs quickly into the skin.
Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream:
This moisturizer is designed for sensitive skin, but it can also be a good option for acne-prone skin. It contains panthenol and madecassoside, which can help to soothe and repair damaged skin. It is also free of potential irritants like fragrance and essential oils. This moisturizer has a creamy texture that absorbs into the skin without leaving a greasy residue.
