You know those flawless, luminous faces you see on K-dramas or Instagram and wonder, “How do they do it?” Well, it’s not just magic or fancy products. Korean women have skincare habits that go way beyond the usual hydration, SPF, and toners everyone talks about. Some of them might even sound a little extra… like slapping your face to boost circulation. Yes, seriously.
I’ve been fascinated by these unique habits for years, and today I’m sharing 14 Korean skincare habits that every woman should know. Some you might try, some you might think are wild, but all of them contribute to that glass skin glow we all secretly crave.
1. Face Slapping (or Patting) for Circulation
Ever seen Korean women gently patting or slapping their faces during a routine? It’s not for shock value, it’s to boost blood circulation and help products absorb better.
- How it works: Pat or lightly slap your cheeks, forehead, and chin after applying serums or essences.
- Benefit: Promotes oxygen flow, giving skin a natural blush and glow.
IMO, it feels weird at first, but after a few weeks, your skin really perks up.
2. Layering Essences
Korean skincare isn’t about one magic product, it’s about layering essences to build hydration and glow.
- Apply a few thin layers of essence rather than one thick layer.
- Each layer adds moisture and nutrients, giving skin a plump, soft texture.
- Tip: Pat each layer in, don’t rub.
Think of it as giving your skin multiple mini-drinks instead of one big gulp.
3. Gua Sha or Face Rolling
Facial tools like gua sha stones or rollers aren’t just Instagram props, they promote lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness.
- Technique: Sweep from the center of your face outward, focusing on the jawline and cheekbones.
- Benefit: Reduces swelling and gives a subtle lift.
FYI, consistent use can even improve product absorption.
4. Double Cleansing
Korean women often use oil-based cleansers followed by water-based cleansers.
- Step 1: Oil cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum.
- Step 2: Water-based cleanser deep cleanses pores.
- Benefit: Skin feels ultra-clean without being stripped.
Yes, it takes extra time, but your skin feels so fresh it’s worth it.
5. Sheet Masks as a Mini Spa
Sheet masks aren’t just for pampering, they infuse skin with concentrated ingredients.
- Use 2–3 times a week for hydration, brightening, or soothing.
- Tip: Apply after serum and before cream to lock in nutrients.
IMO, this is my favorite “treat yourself” step. Instant glow guaranteed.
6. Sleeping Packs
Instead of heavy night creams, Korean women often use sleeping packs, overnight masks that hydrate and repair skin while you sleep.
- Apply as the last step in your night routine.
- Benefit: Wakes up with plump, soft, and radiant skin.
Pro tip: A little goes a long way; you don’t need a full jar on your face.
7. Massaging Eye Areas
The delicate skin around the eyes needs extra love. Korean women gently massage eye creams to stimulate circulation.
- Use your ring finger for light pressure.
- Massage from inner to outer corners.
- Benefit: Reduces puffiness and dark circles over time.
Even 30 seconds can make a noticeable difference.
8. Ice Cubes for Pores
Yes, rubbing ice on your face sounds crazy, but it’s a legit trick.
- How it works: Glide an ice cube wrapped in a cloth over your skin for a few seconds.
- Benefit: Tightens pores, soothes irritation, and boosts circulation.
It’s especially nice in the morning to wake up puffy, tired skin.
9. Multi-Masking
Sometimes one mask isn’t enough. Korean women often apply different masks to different areas:
- Sheet mask for hydration
- Clay mask for T-zone oil control
- Eye patches for dark circles
This targeted approach ensures every part of your face gets what it needs.
10. Toner Pads or Essences for Extra Hydration
Instead of just dabbing toner on a cotton pad, some Korean women soak pads or even hands with essence or toner and press onto the face.
- Benefit: Locks in hydration and helps with absorption.
- Feels like giving your face a refreshing mini-facial.
11. Minimal Makeup, Heavy Skincare
Korean women often focus on skincare over makeup.
- Prioritize hydrating, brightening, and repairing skin before considering coverage.
- Benefit: Skin becomes naturally luminous, reducing the need for heavy foundations or concealers.
This explains why so many achieve that “glow from within” look.
12. Sun Protection Beyond SPF
Korean women are obsessed with daily sun protection, but they go beyond creams:
- Use umbrellas, hats, and even gloves in sunny weather.
- Reapply SPF multiple times a day if outside.
Pro tip: Protection is key for preventing pigmentation, wrinkles, and dullness.
13. Consistent Exfoliation
Not harsh scrubs, but gentle chemical exfoliants are staples.
- Helps remove dead skin cells, revealing fresh skin underneath.
- Improves absorption of other products.
- Frequency: 1–2 times a week, depending on your skin type.
Overdoing it is a no-go; Korean skincare focuses on balance.
14. Mindful Lifestyle Choices
Beauty isn’t just products, it’s lifestyle. Korean women often:
- Drink lots of water and teas
- Eat nutrient-rich, balanced meals
- Prioritize sleep and stress management
Benefit: Glowing skin is a reflection of overall health. Skincare is just the cherry on top.
Wrapping It Up
So there you have it, 14 Korean skincare habits that go beyond the basics. Some are quirky, some are relaxing, but all work together to give that luminous, healthy, glass-skin glow.
The key takeaway? It’s consistency, gentle care, and paying attention to every step, even the ones that sound a little extra. Slapping your face, layering essences, or ice-cube treatments might seem weird at first, but the results speak for themselves.
Try incorporating a few of these habits, and watch your skin transform. And trust me, once you see that glow, you’ll be hooked. 🙂
