Koreans’ Evening Skincare Routine: From Makeup Remover to Face Cream

“From lightweight to heavy” is an easy rule of thumb to remember, but it’s best to decide your evening routine based on what the products do: if you’re wearing waterproof sunscreen or makeup, remove it first (cleansing oil/balm), then use a cleanser (foam cleanser); if you haven’t applied these products, there’s no need to force in an extra step for “double cleansing.” Next come serums or functional products, and finally lotion and face cream (cream) to seal everything in. Toner isn’t a necessary step; if you want to use it, apply it after cleansing.

Don’t use active products such as acids and retinol together just because you’re “layering products”; when trying them for the first time, use them separately and reduce the frequency. If the product instructions specify a particular order, follow those first. Sheet masking and seven or eight layers of toner aren’t must-dos either—what matters more than the number of steps is avoiding irritation, sticking with your routine, and not over-cleansing.