Q. What are the best skincare routines on a budget?

A. Korean Skincare Guide for Various Skin Types

Korean skincare isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle. Known for its meticulous multi-step regimen, glowing results, and focus on holistic skin health, it’s no wonder Korean skincare has taken the world by storm. But what if your quest for glass-like skin is restricted by a tight budget? Fear not—this guide is designed to walk you through an affordable 10-step Korean skincare routine tailored to different skin types without breaking the bank.

Why Choose a Korean Skincare Routine?

Korean skincare emphasizes prevention and maintenance, aiming to achieve a radiant, healthy complexion. While the traditional 10-step routine might sound overwhelming, it’s customizable, allowing you to focus on steps that best suit your skin’s needs.

Now, here’s how to build your own budget-friendly Korean skincare routine based on your skin type.

Step 1. Oil-Based Cleanser

An oil-based cleanser is the first step to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.

• For Oily Skin: Look for lightweight formulas like The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Oil.
• For Dry Skin: Opt for nourishing options such as Banila Co Clean It Zero (Mini size for budget options).

Budget Tip:

Choose travel-sized options if you’re new to Korean skincare to save money and test products without committing to full sizes.

Step 2. Water-Based Cleanser

Double cleansing is the hallmark of Korean skincare. A water-based cleanser eliminates any residue left after the first cleanse.

• For Sensitive Skin: Use the soothing Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser.
• For Combination Skin: Try Benton Honest Cleansing Foam, gentle yet effective.

Budget Tip:

Explore drugstore brands like CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser, which closely mimic Korean formulations.

Step 3. Exfoliation (2-3 Times a Week)

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores, allowing other products to penetrate better.

• For Acne-Prone Skin: Choose chemical exfoliants like COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid.
• For Dry Skin: Stick to mild exfoliators such as Secret Key Lemon Sparkling Peeling Gel.

Budget Tip:

Use an exfoliator once a week instead of three to extend the product’s life.

Step 4. Toner

Toner preps your skin for the next steps by hydrating and balancing your skin’s pH.

• For Oily Skin: Use Etude House Wonder Pore Toner to control sebum production.
• For Dry Skin: Go for Etude House SoonJung Relief Toner, which calms and hydrates.

Budget Tip:

Consider multi-purpose toners that also act as a calming mist or essence.

Step 5. Essence

Essences are the heart of Korean skincare, designed to deeply hydrate and improve skin texture.

• For Dehydrated Skin: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence works wonders.
• For Uneven Skin Tone: Opt for Mizon AHA & BHA Daily Clean Toner Essence.

Budget Tip:

Stick to fewer drops; a little essence goes a long way!

Step 6. Serum

Serums cater to specific skin concerns like acne, redness, or dullness.

• For Brightening (All Skin Types): Try The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (an affordable substitute).
• For Anti-Aging (Dry Skin): Use Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Probio Ampoule.

Budget Tip:

Opt for multi-tasking serums to address multiple concerns within a single product.

Step 7. Sheet Mask (1-2 Times a Week)

Korean sheet masks are a luxurious treat for all skin types.

• All Skin Types: Grab bundles from Mediheal or Etude House, which offer hydrating and replenishing options without breaking the bank.

Budget Tip:

Buy sheet masks in bulk during sales events or consider reusable silicone sheet masks to layer over your existing serums or essences.

Step 8. Eye Cream

The delicate skin around your eyes deserves special treatment.

• For Puffiness: Try A’pieu Madecassoside Eye Cream, affordable yet effective.
• For Dark Circles: Use Mizon Snail Repair Eye Cream for hydration and brightening.

Budget Tip:

Purchase travel-sized or multi-pack cream samples to save while trying new products.

Step 9. Moisturizer

Seal in hydration with a good moisturizer suited for your skin type.

• For Oily Skin: Reach for Cosrx Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap.
• For Dry Skin: Try Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream, packed with long-lasting hydration.

Budget Tip:

Use a small spatula to scoop out every last bit of product and make it last longer.

Step 10. Sunscreen

The most critical step in any skincare routine—apply sunscreen every morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

• All Skin Types: COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF50+ is a crowd-favorite for lightweight, non-sticky coverage.

Budget Tip:

Reapply throughout the day using affordable travel-size bottles.

Final Thoughts

Skincare isn’t just about expensive products—it’s about consistency and understanding what works best for your skin type. By carefully curating each step, you can achieve radiant, healthy skin without overspending.

Are you excited to start your affordable Korean skincare routine? Stay tuned for more tips and exclusive deals on our favorite products to help you glow like never before. Share your progress and selfies using #BudgetKBeauty—because flawless skin doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag!

For more, we have a blog post on this topic : https://skinbyseoul.com/10-step-korean-skincare-on-a-budget/