Exfoliation is used to renew the skin, remove excess sebum, unclog pores, and achieve a smoother, more radiant complexion. In Korean skincare, exfoliation is typically used two to three times per week. Chemical exfoliants such as AHA, BHA, or PHA are applied to dry or thoroughly cleansed skin, while enzyme peels also work on slightly damp skin. After each exfoliation, the skin should be treated with a soothing moisturizer to allow the skin barrier to recover optimally.
In what order are exfoliants used in Korean skincare?
In the K-beauty routine, exfoliation is used directly after cleansing. The ideal order is:
- Oil Cleanser (optional)
- Gel or foam cleaner
- Peeling or exfoliant
- toner
- essence or serum
- Moisturizer
- Sun protection in the morning
- This structure ensures that the skin is perfectly receptive and that
- The active ingredients of the following products can work optimally.
What makes Korean scrubs so special?
Korean peels utilize modern, skin-friendly formulations such as AHA, BHA, PHA, enzymes, cica, green tea, panthenol, or fermented extracts. These active ingredients gently exfoliate the skin without irritating or drying it out, resulting in a visibly refined, smooth, and radiant complexion. Korean peels are ideal for anyone seeking effective yet gentle exfoliation.
Is it possible to combine exfoliation and active ingredients such as retinol, vitamin C, or niacinamide?
Niacinamide combines very well with most exfoliants. However, with vitamin C and retinol, it is recommended to use them on different days to avoid overloading the skin. Korean exfoliants are formulated to be particularly gentle; nevertheless, the skin should always be soothed and well-hydrated after exfoliation.
How can you tell if you've exfoliated too often?
If your skin feels tight, burns, appears red, or reacts more sensitively than usual, this could be a sign of over-exfoliation. A short break and extra moisture will help your skin regenerate. Korean scrubs reduce this risk with their gentle formulas, but you should still adjust their use to your individual skin type.
Korean peels combine effectiveness with exceptional gentleness, resulting in a healthy, smooth and radiant complexion – perfect for anyone looking to take their routine to the next level.