Why Does Korean Skincare Have So Many Steps? 

If you’ve ever asked, “Why does Korean skincare have so many steps?” — you’re not alone. From double cleansing to serums, essences, and masks, the routine can feel excessive to a beginner. But there’s a reason K-beauty has become a global phenomenon: it works — and the layered steps are backed by real skin science.

Let’s break down why this multi-step method exists, what each step does, and how to build a simple but effective version that works for you.

Where Did the Multi-Step Korean Skincare Routine Come From?

Contrary to what Instagram might suggest, most Koreans don’t do all 10 steps daily. The concept gained traction in the West thanks to curated beauty retailers and media outlets — but in Korea, skincare is seen as a flexible ritual, not a strict checklist.

At its core, Korean skincare prioritizes:

Hydration

Barrier support

Gentle, consistent treatment

Prevention over correction

Instead of using one all-in-one product, Korean routines layer formulas so each ingredient penetrates optimally — without irritating the skin.

What Each Step Actually Does (And If You Need It)

Here’s a breakdown of the typical 10-step routine — and when it’s worth using:

Step 1 – Oil Cleanser (PM only)

Dissolves SPF, makeup, and sebum without stripping skin.

Use if you wear sunscreen or makeup daily.

Step 2 – Water-Based Cleanser

Removes sweat, water-soluble debris, and prepares the skin for treatment.

Use morning and night.

Step 3 – Exfoliator (2–3x/week)

Sloughs off dead skin cells and helps with brightening and texture.

Use sparingly; chemical exfoliants like AHA/BHA are best.

Step 4 – Toner

Balances pH and preps skin to absorb active ingredients.

Try: RADIANSOME100 Toner

Step 5 – Essence

Lightweight hydration with fermented ingredients for glow and elasticity.

Think of it as a pre-serum.

Step 6 – Serum / Ampoule

Targets specific concerns like wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or acne.

Try: Aging + Fine Lines Collection

Step 7 – Sheet Mask (1–2x/week)

An intense moisture treatment that calms and plumps skin.

Try: Collagen100 Melting Sheet Mask

Step 8 – Eye Cream

Hydrates the under-eye area and prevents fine lines.

Not essential for everyone, but helpful for thin skin around the eyes.

Step 9 – Moisturizer

Locks in hydration and seals in previous layers.

Essential daily.

Step 10 – Sunscreen (AM only)

Protects skin from UV damage — the #1 cause of premature aging.

Non-negotiable. Try SPF50+ Korean formulas for lightweight wear.

Why So Many Steps? The Science Behind Layering

Unlike Western skincare, which often combines multiple actives into one product, Korean skincare separates functions for better absorption and reduced irritation.

Layering = control. You can add or skip steps depending on your needs.

Thin to thick = effective. Light products penetrate, while thicker products lock it in.

Hydration is the foundation. Dry or stripped skin can’t absorb actives well.

This layered approach allows you to fine-tune your regimen instead of overwhelming your skin with a single “miracle” cream.

Do You Really Need All 10 Steps? (Short Answer: No)

Most people can start with 4–6 core steps:

1. Cleanser
2. Toner 
3. Serum 
4. Moisturizer
5. SPF (AM) 
6. Sheet mask (1–2x/week)

As your skin improves, you can experiment with adding or rotating treatments.

Want to start simple? Try our beginner-friendly Incellderm Ritual Kit

Final Thoughts: It’s About Skin Health, Not Product Count

So, why does Korean skincare have so many steps? Because it's designed to work with your skin — not against it.

Each step has a purpose. When used correctly, the result is glowing, resilient, hydrated skin. But remember: the routine is flexible. Customize it based on your skin’s needs, not hype.