A Complete Plant-Based Korean 10-Step Skincare Routine
K-Beauty could easily be described as a playground for innovative ingredients like snail mucin and bee venom. For those committed to using plant-based products, embarking on the Korean 10-step skincare routine might feel like a daunting task. But don’t worry—we’ve put together a plant-based guide to help you get started on this journey to glowing skin!
South Korea made strides in cruelty-free practices by banning cosmetic testing on animals in 2018. However, this does not impact the use of animal-derived ingredients in formulations, meaning ingredients like snail secretion and honey are still common. Vegan-certified products are also relatively rare in Korea, as veganism isn’t a widely adopted concept there. If you’re aiming for a completely vegan routine, reaching out to brands to inquire about specific ingredients is your safest bet.
Looking for a plant-based way to give the 10-step routine a shot? Here’s a straightforward guide featuring products that use only plant-based ingredients (even though they’re not vegan-certified) – OK we have 8 but that’s close enough!
Step 1: Oil Cleanser
Product Recommendation: Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil
Start your skincare routine with a cleansing oil to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. The Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil is packed with plant-derived powerhouses like black bean oil (to manage sebum production), black currant seed oil (loaded with nutrients), and antioxidant-rich black sesame oil.
Step 2: Foam or Water-Based Cleanser
Product Recommendation: CosRX Low pH Good Morning Cleanser or Neogen Real Flower Cleansing Water in Calendula or Rose
The CosRX Low pH Good Morning Cleanser is a hydrating gel cleanser with key natural ingredients, like tea tree oil, to purify and refresh the skin. It’s perfect for anyone with dry or sensitive skin.
On lighter cleansing days, turn to Neogen Real Flower Cleansing Water (available in Rose or Calendula). These micellar water-like cleansers offer a gentle cleanse and are infused with real flower extracts for added hydration and soothing benefits.
Step 3: Toner
Product Recommendation: Klairs Supple Preparation Toner or CosRX One Step Pimple Clear Pads
The Klairs Supple Preparation Toner is a skin-balancing hero, infused with ingredients like moisturizing aloe and brightening licorice root extract.
For acne-prone skin, consider CosRX One Step Pimple Clear Pads. These pre-soaked pads contain exfoliating ingredients like willow bark water, helping to clear clogged pores and prevent breakouts.
Step 4: Essence
Product Recommendation: ENature Birch Juice Hydro Essence Skin
Essence is the heart of Korean skincare, and ENature Birch Juice Hydro Essence Skin doesn’t disappoint. With 78% birch sap, plus chamomile and plantain seed extracts, this essence locks in intense hydration while gently soothing dry or irritated skin.
Step 5: Exfoliator
Product Recommendation: Neogen Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads or CosRX AHA/BHA Products
Neogen’s Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads deliver dual-action exfoliation, blending physical exfoliation with AHAs for smooth, glowing skin. Available in Lemon, Wine, and Green Tea variants, each is tailored to brighten and treat various skin concerns.
For a more chemical-based exfoliation, CosRX AHA and BHA products are cult-favorites, especially for targeting blackheads, whiteheads, and dull skin.
Step 6: Serum
Product Recommendation: Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum
Hydration takes center stage with Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Serum. Its gentle, nourishing formula makes it a great match for sensitive or dehydrated skin, leaving it softer and healthier.
Step 7: Moisturizer
Product Recommendation: CosRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream or RE:P Nutrinature Ultra Moist Gel Oil
Seal in all that hard-earned hydration with the CosRX Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream, which blends sea buckthorn oil and hyaluronic acid to deeply moisturize without feeling heavy.
For a lightweight alternative, RE:P Nutrinature Ultra Moist Gel Oil offers the best of both worlds, combining the hydration of a serum with the richness of an oil.
Optional Step 8: Masks
Product Recommendation: Neogen Blemish Control Mask or RE:P Bio Fresh Clay Masks
Neogen’s Blemish Control Mask caters specifically to acne-prone skin by balancing oil production and calming irritation.
For a soothing treat, RE:P Bio Fresh Clay Masks offer a luxurious experience with real crushed herbs to detoxify the skin without the overly tight feeling typical of clay masks.
Your Plant-Based 10-Step Journey Awaits
Achieving a Korean-inspired skincare routine with plant-based products is easier than expected! With these recommendations, your skin can reap the benefits of this ritual while staying true to your plant-based values. Remember, always read ingredient lists thoroughly and reach out to manufacturers for confirmation if you’re unsure about any product.
