Korean Layering Explained Step by Step

Korean beauty has taken the world by storm with its meticulous routines, innovative ingredients, and philosophy of prevention over correction. Among its most famous practices: layering . This multi-step ritual aims to deeply nourish the skin while respecting its natural rhythm.

But how does layering actually work? What are the steps, and in what order should the products be applied for maximum effectiveness? We'll explain everything.

The principle of layering: why layer your treatments?

Unlike Western routines, which are often reduced to 2 or 3 products, Korean layering is based on a progressive application of light to richer textures , allowing the skin to absorb each treatment optimally.

Each step has a specific role: cleanse, exfoliate, moisturize, nourish, treat... This ritual is not fixed; it can be modulated according to the needs of your skin, the seasons or your available time.

The 10 steps of Korean layering (adaptable according to needs)

1. Oil Cleanser

The first essential step in Korean double cleansing, cleansing oil dissolves oily substances (makeup, sebum, pollution). It is applied to dry skin, massaging gently, then rinsed with warm water.

Recommended product : Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm

2. Water-Based Cleanser

It completes cleansing by removing remaining impurities. Foam, gel, or cream, this water-based cleanser purifies without drying.

Recommended product : Ksecret Seoul 1988 Cleansing Foam: Pine Cica 1% + Probiotics

3. Exfoliation (2 to 3 times a week)

AHA, BHA or PHA: chemical (or gentle mechanical) exfoliation eliminates dead cells, refines skin texture and promotes the absorption of care products.

Recommended Product : Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Toner: AHA + BHA

4. Toner

Often overlooked in the West, toner in Kbeauty hydrates, balances the skin's pH and sets the stage for subsequent treatments.

Recommended Product : Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner

5. Essence

This is the heart of layering. Part toner, part serum, the essence intensely hydrates and promotes cell renewal. It leaves the skin more supple and luminous.

Recommended product : Mixsoon Essence (Bean, Centella, Galactomyces as needed)

6. The serum or ampoule

More concentrated, the serum targets specific problems: wrinkles, spots, dehydration, redness, etc. This is the personalized treatment step.

Recommended product : Ksecret Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng Serum (anti-aging, radiance)

7. The eye contour

This thin and fragile area requires suitable care to prevent dark circles, fine lines and puffiness.

Recommended product : Ksecret Retinal Eye Cream 4% + Fermented Bean

8. Moisturizer

It seals in hydration and previous treatments. Available in gel, cream, or balm textures, it adapts to your skin type.

Recommended product : Dr Althea 345 Relief Cream (soothing and restorative)

9. Sun protection (morning only)

This is the most important step in the morning. A good sunscreen protects against skin aging and spots. Never neglect it!

Recommended product : Ksecret Collagen Boosting Secret Sun Lotion SPF 50+

10. The night mask (optional)

In the evening, a sleeping pack or night mask can complete the routine for plumped skin when you wake up.

Recommended product : Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask

How to adapt layering to your skin type?

Layering isn't a fixed routine. Here are some simple adaptations:

• Oily or combination skin : favor light textures (gel, emulsions), limit the steps if necessary.
• Dry skin : focus on rich essences, nourishing serums, and an occlusive cream.
• Sensitive skin : choose gentle, fragrance-free formulas and introduce products one by one.
• Mature skin : integrate targeted active ingredients (retinal, peptides, collagen).

Mistakes to avoid

• ❌ Too many products at once → introduce a new treatment every 3 to 5 days
• ❌ Wrong order of application → respects the logic of textures (from lightest to richest)
• ❌ Neglecting sunscreen → it is essential, even in cloudy weather
• ❌ Exfoliate too often → 1 to 3 times a week is enough depending on your skin

A tailor-made routine, not a dogma

Korean layering isn't about overconsumption, it's about efficiency. This ritual may seem long at first, but it quickly becomes a moment of self-care. The idea isn't to do everything, every day, but to understand each step to adapt your routine to your current needs .

With simple gestures, a good knowledge of your skin, and well-chosen products, you can transform your beauty ritual into a true moment of well-being.