Delving into the Heart of Korean Skincare: The Quintessential Five Steps for Flawless Combination Skin

Korean skincare routine typically begins with cleansing, a dual-step process that penetrates deeply into combination skin, removing leftover makeup, dirt, and sebum. First, an oil-based cleanser lifts away oil-soluble impurities while nourishing the skin. Then, a water-based cleanser washes away water-soluble debris. This two-step cleansing method, colloquially known as 'double-cleansing', ensures a thoroughly cleansed and balanced complexion.

For those with combination skin, oil-based cleansers with ingredients such as macadamia nut oil or jojoba oil offer enough hydration without causing excessive oiliness. When it comes to water-based cleansers, it might be helpful to look for those containing tea tree oil or green tea, which may help retain moisture while controlling sebum production. Remember, it’s all about balance—not elimination—of oils.

Exfoliation: Unlocking Your Skin's True Potential

The second step, exfoliation, is crucial in keeping the pores unclogged and improving the skin's absorbency. For combination skin, a chemical exfoliant like AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) or BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid) might be most beneficial. AHA tends to even out skin texture and lighten pigmentation, while BHA tends to penetrate the pores, thereby helping to reduce enlarged pores and blackheads.

Exfoliating once or twice a week is all that combination skin needs. Any more is likely to disrupt the skin’s natural balance. In most cases, gentle, fruit-based exfoliators are an excellent choice since they help polish without scraping the skin.