5 skincare tips from Korea that really work

Get that spot-free K-pop celeb look — with five essential beauty tips

Until recently, international experts didn’t know much about Korea’s closely guarded spot-preventing secrets. In the past few years, however, K-pop and drama stars have begun spilling the beans. And that means you too can now draw inspiration from their beauty routines in your quest for spot-free skin. Check out these handy tips.

1. Balance exfoliation

Koreans are big on exfoliation, but know overdoing it can be harmful. Gentle face scrubs do wonders removing excess dirt from your pores if you have oily skin, so it’s well worth finding a place in your routine for them.

2. Cleanse with care

When it comes to cleansers, Korean beauties go for multiple milder solutions, instead of one strong deep-cleansing facial wash. A lot of Korean women like to mix things up — using two or more cleansers in their evening beauty routine, and even have more than 10 skincare products which they use twice daily!

3. Use masks and packs

Masks and packs can help firm up pores and nurse skin inflammations. They often feature soothing, nourishing ingredients — always welcome on oily skin. Koreans usually chill their masks before use, believing cool treatments are just the trick for irritated skin.

4. Get plenty of vitamin B3

Many Korean women swear by products that are rich in vitamin B3. This super-vitamin not only strengthens skin by improving elasticity of the inner layers, it also helps perk up your skin texture. Clinical tests show that vitamin B3 is suitable for most skin types — so it’s just what the doctor ordered for spot treatment and skin regeneration.

5. Know your toner

Korean dermatologists have been advising their clients about the importance of using an effective toner for generations. Skincare pros in the country say you should be on the look-out for toners that are high in antioxidants. They say a good toner should moisturize, yet also help reduce skin oiliness and ensure balanced pH levels.