There has long been a debate in the beauty world: do you really need dozens of jars and complex rituals for healthy skin, or are a few basic steps enough? Some prefer minimalism and keep only a cleanser and cream on the shelf, while others believe in multi-step Korean routines. Where is the truth?
Let's figure out where the cult of 10 stages of skin care came from , what minimal steps everyone really needs, and why the main thing is not the number of jars, but systematicity and awareness.
The Korean cosmetics industry became a global phenomenon in the early 2000s. It gave us BB creams, cushions, sheet masks, and the trend for glowing “glass skin.”
At the heart of this boom was a 10-step routine consisting of double cleansing, toner, essence, serums, eye creams, masks, emulsions, and a final cream.
What is the secret of its popularity?
In Korea, skin is considered a reflection of health, so women and men are taught to take careful care of it from childhood.
The 10 steps looked impressive and created the illusion that only such a complex ritual could produce results.
Ritual has become similar to meditation — time for yourself, for relaxation and taking care of your body.
But are all ten really necessary? Dermatologists say: not always. In most cases, 3–5 stages are enough, the rest are additional options.
If your skin is generally healthy and doesn't have any serious problems, basic care includes just three steps . And that's enough to keep it in good condition.
The first and most important rule: always cleanse your skin in the evening. During the day, dust, dirt, sebum, and makeup residue accumulate on your skin. If you don't wash them off, they will lead to inflammation, dullness, and premature aging.
In the morning, a light cleansing is enough - with a soft foam or even simple micellar water . In the evening, it is better to use double cleansing : first an oil or balm, then a gel or foam.
Even oily skin needs moisture. Without it, the protective barrier breaks down and irritations appear. A cream or gel moisturizes, retains moisture and makes the face more elastic.
Choose products according to your skin type:
oily - light gel,
dry — rich cream ,
combined — balancing textures.
SPF is a must have. The sun is the main factor in skin aging. Even on cloudy days, UV rays reach the ground. Therefore, SPF cream should be the last step in your morning routine .
This simple rule can delay the appearance of wrinkles for years.
For those who are willing to spend a little more time and like "little beauty rituals," there is extended care — 5–7 stages.
What is added?
Toner. Restores pH after washing, prepares the skin for the next steps.
Serum. Concentrate of active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, retinol). The choice depends on the problem: pigmentation, wrinkles, dryness or acne.
Eye cream. The skin around the eyes is thinner and more delicate. A light cream will help moisturize and delay the appearance of crow's feet.
Masks. This is a bonus step, not a daily one. Use 1–2 times a week for extra nourishment or cleansing.
This set is the "golden mean": not too minimalistic, but not overloaded.
Sometimes you want to have a real SPA at home. That's why we came up with a 10-step care plan . It includes:
Cleansing oil
Foam or gel
Toner
Essence
Serum
Ampoules
Eye cream
Emulsion or lotion
Face cream
SPF (morning) or night mask
Is it needed every day? - No. You can do this complex from time to time, for example on a weekend, to pamper yourself. However, if you practice it every day, it may even be unnecessary: the skin becomes overloaded and starts to "get lazy."
Skincare shouldn't be a competition of "who has the most steps." Some people find three steps enough, others get a kick out of the full package. And there's no right or wrong way to do it.
The key rule: do your grooming regularly. 3 steps a day is better than 10 times a week.
Remember: beauty is not just about creams. Sleep, nutrition, water, and rest are important. Cosmetics only help to emphasize the natural glow of your skin.
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