How to Layer Korean Serums Like a Pro
Confused about what goes first in a Korean skincare routine? Here’s how to layer your serums properly for the best results.
When it comes to Korean skincare one of the most confusing aspects is layering products.
Because Koreans prioritize hydration and nutrition in their skincare routines, a typical Korean beauty routine often involves layering different products.
The good news is that once you understand the logic behind layering, it becomes much easier. Let’s take a look at how best to layer and some tips to keep in mind to get the best results.
The Step Before Serums - Toners & Essences
Before you get to your serums there's an important first step in Korean beauty. This is the toner & essence stage, or an essence toner if you use one product that combines both.
This is a lightweight liquid designed to be applied post-cleanse. The primary objective is not to cleanse the skin again but rather to add hydration back to the skin and reset it after cleansing.
What’s in Them: Essences generally comprise plant extracts and antioxidants, like this essence-toner.
How to Layer Korean Serums Like a Pro
When it comes to layering your serums the general rule is to start with the thinnest consistency first and work your way up to the thickest.
Why do we want to layer serums? Quite simply because different products target different skin concerns and offer different benefits.
There are serums for every skin issue under the sun - acne, dehydration, dryness, sagging, loss of firmness, pores, pigmentation and more.
In the case of our products, we recommend layering them like this:
That order helps ensure that your most watery, fast-absorbing layers go on first and your richer, more nourishing layers sit on top where they can seal everything in.
Rules for Layering Korean Serums
- Some serums work best when applied at night. This includes products with retinol in them or those with AHAs, BHAs and PHAs. This is because these ingredients can increase your skin's sensitivity to UV.
- Other serums work best when applied in the morning. This includes products containing Vitamin C. Studies have shown that using vitamin C serum before sunscreen can optimize your SPF, addressing damage from the sun and neutralizing free radicals.
- Not all serums should be combined. So, if you're using serums with retinol in them, try not to use them in the same routine as your AHAs, BHAs and PHAs. Instead, use them on different nights. Why? Using them together increases your risk of over-exfoliation.
A good way to think about layering is this: hydrating, watery layers first, treatment products next, and richer nourishing formulas afterwards.
That way your routine supports your skin instead of overwhelming it.
The Bottom Line
Layering Korean serums does not need to be complicated.
- Start with toner or essence-toner
- Apply the thinnest serum first
- Save richer, more nourishing serums for later layers
- Pay attention to when specific actives are best used
Get that right, and your skin will get far more out of every step in your routine.
Not sure which serums your skin actually needs?
Take our Korean-style AI Skin Analysis quiz to get personalised recommendations based on your skin concerns.
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