Navigating Korean Skin Care on a Budget: Tips to Avoid Excessive Skincare

Skincare is an essential daily routine, especially when embracing the Korean beauty trend. However, with a myriad of products and procedures available, it's easy to fall into the trap of excessive skincare. This article aims to help you choose the right and affordable Korean skincare products for your skin type, and how to use them correctly to achieve optimal results. We'll also explore the common pitfalls of excessive skincare and how to avoid them.

What is Excessive Skincare?

Excessive skincare is not just about using an overwhelming number of products but also about adopting overly complicated and heavy routines. Here are the common categories you might be unknowingly falling into:

The Procedure is Too Complicated

Applying too many layers (foundation, base cream, sunscreen, BB cream, etc.) Lengthy makeup removal and cleaning procedures, even at night, when many products have the same ingredients

Excessive Mask Usage

Applying a mask daily for more than half an hour Using multiple masks one after the other (moisturizer, whitening, anti-aging)

Over-reliance on Facial Masks and Sprays for Hydration

Using masks and sprays frequently to maintain moisture instead of using long-lasting moisturizing products like creams.

Excessive Exfoliation

Exfoliating every week or more, often using peel-off masks and scrubs

Excessive Cleaning and Makeup Removal

Multiplying cleansing steps, using harsh products, and over-exfoliating, especially with sensitive skin.

Why Does Excessive Skincare Cause Skin Sensitivity?

The core reason for skin sensitivity due to excessive skincare is the damage to the skin barrier. The skin barrier, composed of stratum corneum cells, intercellular lipids, and a sebum membrane, is vital for retaining moisture and protecting against external factors.

Excessive exfoliation can thin the cuticle layer. Improper hydration and excessive mask usage can loosen the stratum corneum and weaken the barrier. Excessive cleaning can lead to loss and damage of intercellular lipids and sebum, weakening the protective effect of the skin barrier.

These actions also alter the skin's microenvironment, increasing the pH and making it more prone to harmful microorganisms.

How to Reduce Skin Care and Avoid Excessive Skincare

First, refine your skincare products and routine. For a normal person, cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection are the necessary steps. Here are some practical tips:

Optimize Your Routine

Cleanse only when needed. If your skin is not too greasy or dirty, skip the cleanser or use less of it. No need for makeup remover auxiliary work. Protect yourself with hard sun protection measures like hats, umbrellas, clothing, and sunglasses if not spending long hours in direct sunlight.

Customer Care Frequency

Facial Mask and Exfoliation

Normal skin: 2-3 times a week, not exceeding 15 minutes each. Sensitive skin: Choose mild ingredients and restorative masks. Exfoliate once a week for normal skin, particularly on the T-zone. For thicker skin, every 2-4 weeks. Use peel-off masks sparingly, especially for acne-prone skin.

Massage and Beauty Salon Treatments

Ordinary massage can be done daily, but not too forcefully. Sensitive and inflamed skin should be handled cautiously, with professional guidance preferred.

Makeup Remover and Face Brush

Use makeup remover cream instead of multiple cleansings. Hand massage is recommended for sensitive skin. Avoid makeup removal for inflamed skin issues like acne.

By following these tips, you can maintain a healthy and affordable Korean skincare routine without causing excessive strain on your skin.