Breaking Down the 10-Step Skincare Routine

Skincare doesn’t have to cost a fortune. A radiant, healthy complexion is less about luxury price tags and more about consistency, layering, and choosing the right products. Inspired by the famous Korean routine, here’s a breakdown of a 10-step skincare ritual that you can follow with affordable, accessible cosmetics.

9/7/20253 min read

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Step 1: Oil Cleanser

Start by removing makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum with a gentle oil-based cleanser. Even if you don’t wear makeup daily, oil cleansers help dissolve impurities better than water alone.

Oil Cleanser: Garnier Micellar Oil-Infused Cleansing Water

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser

Follow up with a foaming or gel cleanser to wash away sweat, dirt, and any leftover residue. This “double cleanse” keeps pores clear and prevents breakouts.

Foam Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

Step 3: Exfoliation (2–3 times a week)

Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and encourages cell renewal. You can choose between a gentle scrub or a chemical exfoliant with AHA/BHA depending on your skin’s sensitivity.

Exfoliant: The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution

Step 4: Toner

A toner balances your skin’s pH and preps it to absorb the next steps better. Look for hydrating formulas rather than harsh, alcohol-heavy ones.

Toner: Simple Soothing Facial Toner

Step 5: Essence

An essence is like a lightweight serum packed with hydration and nutrients. It plumps and preps the skin, enhancing the absorption of serums and creams.

Essence: Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Step 6: Serum / Treatment

This is where you target specific concerns—whether it’s acne, pigmentation, dullness, or fine lines. Choose an affordable serum with actives that match your skin’s needs (like vitamin C, niacinamide, or hyaluronic acid).

Serum: The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

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Step 7: Sheet Mask (1–2 times a week)

Sheet masks deliver an intense boost of hydration and nutrients. They’re inexpensive, relaxing, and perfect for a pamper moment.

Sheet Mask: Garnier Moisture Bomb Sheet Mask

Step 8: Eye Cream

The delicate skin around the eyes deserves special care. An eye cream can help with puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines.

Eye Cream: CeraVe Eye Repair Cream

Step 9: Moisturizer

Lock in hydration with a nourishing cream or gel moisturizer. Choose lighter gels for oily skin and richer creams for dry skin.

Moisturizer: Nivea Soft Cream or CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Step 10: Sunscreen (Daytime)

The most important step! Sunscreen protects your skin from UV damage, premature aging, and hyperpigmentation. Always finish your morning routine with SPF, even on cloudy days.

Sunscreen: La Roche-Posay Anthelios or Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50

Budget-Friendly Product Examples

Here are a few wallet-friendly options you can easily find online or in drugstores: