A short, practical guide to the six skin topics people ask about most. It is general information about everyday skincare, not medical advice. Every skin is different, so treat it as a starting point.
The basic order of a routine
Most Korean routines follow the same simple logic, from thin to thick textures. More steps do not mean better results: start with cleanse, moisturise and sunscreen, then add one step at a time.
- CleanseRemove oil, sunscreen and dirt gently.
- TonePrepare skin and add light moisture.
- TreatSerum or ampoule for one specific goal.
- MoisturiseSeal everything in and support the skin barrier.
- SunscreenLast step every morning.
Pores & breakouts
Pore size is mostly genetic. What you can influence is how clogged and visible pores look: excess oil, dead skin cells and leftover sunscreen or make-up can build up inside them.
Everyday habits
- Cleanse gently morning and evening, and double cleanse in the evening if you wear sunscreen or make-up.
- Do not pick or squeeze; it spreads irritation and can leave marks.
- Moisturise with a light gel or lotion. Skipping moisturiser can make skin produce more oil.
- Change pillowcases and clean phone screens regularly.
Ingredients people look for
Introduce an exfoliating acid slowly, two or three evenings a week at most.
Go gently with
Harsh scrubs, several exfoliants used together and very hot water. If breakouts are painful, deep or persistent, talk to a dermatologist.
A ready-made order of steps for this topic, as a Mini or Full ritual.
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Hydration
Dry skin is a skin type (not enough oil). Dehydrated skin lacks water and can happen to any skin type, including oily skin. Tightness after cleansing and a dull, slightly rough surface are common signs.
Everyday habits
- Apply toner, essence or serum on damp skin, then seal it in with a cream.
- Use lukewarm water and a mild, low-foam or creamy cleanser.
- In dry indoor air in winter, a humidifier helps.
Ingredients people look for
They attract or hold water in the skin.
Go gently with
Over-cleansing and stripping cleansers, and exfoliating too often.
A ready-made order of steps for this topic, as a Mini or Full ritual.
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Dullness
Skin can look tired for many reasons: dead cells sitting on the surface, dehydration, sun exposure, little sleep or stress. There is rarely one cause, so the basics matter most.
Everyday habits
- Daily sunscreen is the single most useful habit for a fresher-looking complexion over time.
- Keep skin hydrated; dehydrated skin reflects light unevenly.
- Exfoliate gently once or twice a week at most.
Ingredients people look for
Mild exfoliating acids help remove dead surface cells.
Go gently with
Layering several actives at once. Vitamin C can sting on a damaged skin barrier; start every second day.
A ready-made order of steps for this topic, as a Mini or Full ritual.
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Sensitive skin
“Sensitive” is not a diagnosis. It usually describes skin that stings, flushes or tightens easily, often when the skin barrier is stressed by over-exfoliating, harsh products, weather or fragrance.
Everyday habits
- Keep the routine short: cleanser, moisturiser, sunscreen.
- Choose fragrance-free products where you can, and use lukewarm water.
- Patch test new products on a small area and add only one new product at a time, waiting at least a week.
Ingredients people look for
Calming, barrier-supporting ingredients.
Go gently with
Fragrance and essential oils, physical scrubs, strong acids and retinoids. If redness, burning or itching is persistent, see a doctor or dermatologist.
A ready-made order of steps for this topic, as a Mini or Full ritual.
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Sun care
UV light is the biggest everyday factor behind visible skin ageing and uneven tone. Sunscreen is the one step worth doing in every routine.
Everyday habits
- Use enough: about two finger lengths for face and neck.
- Apply it as the last step of the morning routine and reapply about every two hours when outdoors.
- UV is also present on cloudy days and from reflection on water or snow.
- Remove sunscreen thoroughly in the evening.
What to look for on the label
SPF 50+ with PA++++ is common in Korean sunscreens.
Good to know
Korean sunscreens are usually light, with chemical or hybrid filters and little white cast. Mineral filters are another option for people who prefer them.
Cleanse, moisturise and sun protection in one short ritual.
See sunscreens and the ritual →
Anti-aging
Skin ageing is natural, and the goal of a routine is healthy-looking skin, not stopping time. The biggest thing you control is sun protection, and the rest works slowly over months.
Everyday habits
- Wear sunscreen every morning.
- Moisturise daily to support the skin barrier.
- If you use retinol or retinal, apply it in the evening, start two nights a week and build up slowly.
Ingredients people look for
Go gently with
Using retinoids together with strong acids on the same night, or without daily sunscreen. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your doctor before using retinoids.
A ready-made order of steps for this topic, as a Mini or Full ritual.
See matching products →
Trying something new
Patch test new products on a small area of skin first, add one new active product at a time, and stop using a product if your skin gets irritated. Results depend on your skin and how consistently you use a product, and they take weeks, not days. Questions? Write to info@abby.ee or see our FAQ.