Honestly, taking care of your skin can get super expensive – whether you’re applying a bunch of products for radiant, soft skin or going to get a facial every time you desperately need some T.L.C. So, what if we told you that we can help you save your time and your money? Inspired by Japanese and Korean beauty, we give you 5 tips to follow so that you can get the most out of your products for the ultimate skincare boost!

Dry Cleansing

What is it?

Dry cleansing is exactly as it sounds. You’re washing your face dry – no water!! This may seem weird at first, but trust me when I say your skin will thank you for it.

Without dampening the face, you’re using the cleanser in its most concentrated form. That way, you can reap ALL the benefits and not let any of it go to waste. This method ensures you’re thoroughly cleansing and loosening up the nast from within your pores, making it a great tip for oily, acne-prone skin. Once this is done, your face is going to feel 10x cleaner and brighter!

Steps:

  1. Pick a cleanser – preferably one that doesn’t foam
  2. Apply the cleanser to your face and take 30 seconds to really massage it into the skin (upward & outward motions)
  3. Run your hands under lukewarm water and massage for a second time to activate the cleanser
  4. Rinse off everything and pat dry

Ditch the Towel

What is it?

Let’s ditch our face towels once and for all! Instead, use your hands to gently pat and wipe away the excess water after cleansing. This is a popular K-beauty method for two reasons:

First of all, towels are not very hygienic, considering how long they’ve been hanging up in the bathroom. Chances are, the bacteria that’s been sitting there will spread to your face, risking inflammation and breakouts.

Second, towels can be rough and irritating to the skin. Skipping this step will prevent any rubbing, friction, and pulling. This makes sure we’re as gentle as possible throughout our regimen.

Steps:

  1. Cleanse your face
  2. Gently swipe off any excess water in an outward motion
  3. Use your fingertips and pat until there are no more visible droplets. The face and neck should still be damp

Moisturize on Damp Skin

What is it?

Applying your skincare on damp skin will give you better results because it increases the skin’s permeability. To better understand, just think of your skin as a sponge. A damp sponge is better at retaining water and other liquids than a dry one. You can say the same for your skin.

In other words, you’re allowing the products to absorb much faster and deeper into the skin to really target your specific concerns. Dryness, hyperpigmentation, signs of aging. You name it! You can use this method with any of the steps in your routine, just be sure to apply the actives first.

Steps:

  1. Cleanse and get rid of any excess water (Make sure your face is damp enough, but not dripping wet)
  2. After toning, apply your actives then serums and wait till they’re absorbed.
  3. Once they’re absorbed, moisturize to seal everything in

*Spritz thermal water/mist after cleansing or when needed to maintain dampness

Timing

What is it?

Timing, or when you apply your products, is actually the most important tip to consider. For instance, you should wait a few seconds between products before moving onto the next step. This reduces pilling and the chances of you creating a messy glob on your face. Of course, how long will vary, depending on the formulation.

During the day, it’s best to apply your vitamin C serums due to its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties. On the other hand, retinoids/retinols are best used at night because they can become less effective when exposed to sunlight.

You can apply most products daily, but some should only be used once or twice a week to reduce irritation and redness. These include chemical exfoliants, like your AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. If you’re just starting to incorporate actives into your routine, you should gradually level up to see how your skin will react.

Steps:

  1. Wait until your products are dry before continuing (This should take a few seconds to a minute)
  2. Apply vitamin C products in the morning and retinols/retinoids at night
  3. Use chemical exfoliants once or twice a week. The same goes if you are new to actives

Lymphatic Drainage

What is it?

This technique started as a medical treatment in the 1930s to remove “toxins” and excess buildup from the body. It’s now become a popular cosmetic practice for depuffing and decreasing signs of aging, among other benefits. It’s also a relaxing massage to soothe and reduce stress. Sounds great, if you ask me!

You can get it done professionally or by yourself at home. Work this into your nighttime routine for a skincare boost by helping the products to absorb and work their full potential.

Steps:

  1. Massage slowly with applied pressure (If you wish, use a facial oil or serum to reduce friction)
  2. Using your fingers, massage about three times accordingly. Then, slide outward and down toward your collarbone
  3. Perform technique around areas, like the forehead, under eyes, nose arch, mouth, and cheeks

Product Recommendations:

For more information about these tips and how to boost your routine, check out the video:

Head over to more information and product recommendations:

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3 COMMENTS

  1. Great tips! I’ve been experimenting with applying moisturiser on damp skin with some good results. I would add another tip – when you think your product is finished, cut the tube in half and use the remaining contents inside. You’ll find there is still loads in there!

  2. hi there! i am just curious and need serious help in building a proper skincare regime! if i were to spray the La Roche-Posay Serozinc Face Mist after shower, since by the time i need to do my skincare, my face ain’t that damp anymore :(, do i apply toner next? I do own the serozinc face mist and i am currently using caudalie vinopure toner. thank you!