How the 7-Step Korean Method Can Give You the Plumpest, Most Hydrated Skin
Yads Cauchi is a Dermal Clinician, Nutritionist (BHSc, MSc) and Beauty Journalist. She's also a mum of four. Evidence based skin health and nutrition are her thing and she works from her own skin clinic based in Canberra - you can find her there, or on Instagram and TikTok @yadscauchiskin.
The Korean beauty 7 skin method has been making the rounds on TikTok again - perhaps it’s due to skin flooding gaining popularity?
With a focus on hydration, as a Dermal Therapist, I think this is a Korean skincare trend that for many is worth exploring - especially if you are after exceptionally plump, hydrated skin that you can get at home - through winter.
Winter is honestly one of the worst seasons in clinic for dry/dehydrated skin, mainly due to the drop in temperature and humidity which has the tendency to make drier skin worse.
However, I am here for any easy hydration focused tips and tricks you can add to your skincare routines.
So let’s get into it!
What Is the Korean 7-Step Skin Method?
Ok, so I know this is going to sound a little nuts but the 7-step Korean skin method is the concept of applying a toner, or a hydrating essence onto your face up to seven times.
Then, once you’re done you can obviously skip your serums and lock in this Korean skincare routine with a moisturiser (if you like).
You see, the focus is on hydration and by layering your hydrating essence or toner, your skin is fully able to absorb everything that it needs - leading to plump and glowing skin, sans the need for a moisturiser. (Although you do need to do this in thin layers.)
Obviously, layering a hydrating toner seven times can be a bit much for a lot of people so if you want to try the Korean 7 step skin method, you can start by popping your hydrating toner on a cotton round, swiping over your face post-cleansing and repeating 2-3 times only.
I’d also be ensuring that the toner or essence you are applying doesn’t contain any exfoliating ingredients, or alcohol which could have the potential to dry you out or cause irritation.
The thing with many K-beauty toners though, is that they often are made for hydrating the skin and free from these ingredients anyway!
Plus, some are even designed to replace moisturisers, or give similar effects - (hello Laneige Cream Skin!).
Does the Korean skincare routine work?
While there are some pretty wild skincare trends online, hydration is always something I can get behind as hydrated skin = healthy skin.
If you're more of an oily/acne/congestion-prone skin, I would tread with caution with this trend. Although most skin types should be able to try it.
How to Do the 7 Step Korean Method.
So, the Korean 7 skin method steps are actually super easy...
1. Start With a Gentle Cleanse.
Firstly, you want to start with a gentle cleanse.
I wouldn’t be using anything active.
A non-stripping cleanser like the Viviology Gentle Foaming Cleanser 200mL would be fine.
You basically don’t want to be using anything that is going to strip your skin.
2. Apply Your Hydrating Toner or Essence on Slightly Damp Skin.
Secondly, you apply your hydrating toner or essence onto your damp skin (dampening with water is totally fine, although you could also use a mist like the Cosmedix Mystic Hydrating Treatment).
Then, you apply your hydrating toner or essence.
Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturiser 170ml is the perfect product for this - plus they have just updated their formula with age management ceramides and peptides.
Or if you really want to treat yourself you could try using something like the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum 60ml 1-2 nights a week (because she’s expensive).
A product like the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Water 150ml would also be good for a 3 step skin method (so for anyone not doing as many layers).
Also, I personally prefer to use my hands although you can also use a round cotton pad if you find that easier.
3. Add a Moisturiser (If You Like)…
Finally, just repeat step 2 up to seven times - then add a moisturiser if you like!
Just be sure to leave a minute or two between each layer so each layer of hydration fully absorbs and voila.
So simple.
Final Thoughts...
You can totally adjust this to suit your skin so if seven hydrating layers is too much for your skin do a few less. Ditto re: how frequently you might want to try this.
Personally, I would let your skin take the lead and adjust for the seasons; i.e. the summer months may be too much for this type of layering method and I wouldn’t really recommend this for anyone living in a tropical type of climate.
However, right now while it’s cold and your face is feeling parched and in much need of a drink - it would be a fun skincare trick to try in between active skincare nights.
Want more winter skincare? Check out these BIQ articles below:
