How Long Does Korean Skincare Take? Less Than 10 Minutes with Miloon’s Essential Routine.

If you’ve ever wondered how long a Korean skincare routine takes but never dared to ask, we have a surprise for you.

If you think achieving radiant, healthy skin requires hours in front of the mirror, think again. The truth is, just a few essential steps in under 10 minutes can deliver visible results. Korean skincare is not just a trend—it’s a scientific approach to keeping your skin hydrated, protected, and youthful for longer.

Discover the must-have steps for an effective and time-efficient K-Beauty routine, perfect for even the busiest schedules.

The Golden Rule of Korean Skincare.

K-Beauty is based on a simple principle: active ingredients must penetrate deeply and stay in the skin long enough to work effectively. To achieve this, applying products in the correct order and using the right combinations is essential.

The golden rule of Korean skincare? Consistency.
Fewer steps done regularly are better than a complex routine that’s only followed occasionally.

Here’s a beginner-friendly routine—perfect for those new to K-Beauty or anyone looking for a simplified approach.

Total time required: 8-10 minutes

STEP 1: Double Cleansing (2-3 minutes).

Double cleansing is a core part of Korean skincare, but it should be tailored to your skin’s needs. The goal is to remove all impurities—both oil-based (makeup, sebum, pollution) and water-based (sweat, dirt, environmental residue).

When to do it: If you wear makeup, sunscreen, or have oily skin.
When to skip it: If your skin is very dry or sensitive, especially in the morning—one gentle cleanser may be enough.

How to do it:

• Oil-based cleanser: Apply to dry hands and gently massage onto your face to dissolve makeup and impurities. If using a balm, warm it between your fingers before applying. Add lukewarm water to emulsify, then rinse.
• Water-based/foaming cleanser: Apply to damp skin in circular motions, focusing on the T-zone if your skin is oily. Rinse with lukewarm water to complete cleansing.

Science-backed benefits: Proper cleansing prevents breakouts and clogged pores, but over-cleansing can damage the skin barrier. Always adjust cleansing to your skin’s needs.

SHOP NOW: The Best Korean Cleansers for Perfect Cleansing

STEP 2: Toner (30 seconds – 1 minute).

Toner is essential for restoring the skin’s pH after cleansing and prepping it for the next steps.

How to apply it:

• Patting with hands: Enhances hydration and boosts circulation.
• Cotton pad application: Ideal for combination or oily skin, as it helps remove residue and balance oil levels.

Science-backed benefits: Toners strengthen the skin barrier and improve the absorption of active ingredients in later steps.

SHOP NOW: The Best Korean Toners for a Balanced Skin Barrier

STEP 3: Moisturizer (1 minute).

Hydration locks in previous treatments and keeps the skin soft and supple.

• For dry skin: Choose a nourishing cream with ceramides and botanical butters.
• For combination/oily skin: Go for a lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer.

Science-backed benefits: Proper hydration prevents dehydration and helps maintain a youthful complexion.

SHOP NOW: The Best Korean Moisturizers for Nourished, Glowing Skin

STEP 4: Sunscreen (30 seconds – 1 minute).

Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable to prevent premature aging and hyperpigmentation.

How to apply it correctly:

• If your moisturizer doesn’t contain SPF, apply sunscreen as the final step.
• If wearing makeup, allow sunscreen to dry before applying your base.
• Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if exposed to direct sunlight.

Science-backed benefits: UV protection is the most effective anti-aging strategy and significantly reduces the risk of dark spots and wrinkles.

SHOP NOW: The Best Korean Sunscreens for Daily Protection

Extra Steps (Optional, Based on Your Skin’s Needs).

If you want to enhance your basic routine, consider adding these advanced steps:

• STEP 5: Essence – Deep hydration and skin prep for better absorption.
• STEP 6: Serum – Targeted solutions for specific concerns. Apply in layers, waiting 30 seconds between each.
• STEP 7: Eye Patches – Reduce puffiness and hydrate the under-eye area. Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
• STEP 8: Sheet Mask – Intensive treatment for 15-20 minutes, 1-2 times a week.
• STEP 9: Eye Cream – Addresses wrinkles, puffiness, and dark circles. Apply gently with your ring finger.
• STEP 10: Night Cream – A richer formula than daytime creams, providing overnight nourishment.

The Bottom Line: Fewer Steps, Flawless Skin.

Total time required:

• Basic routine (4 steps): 8-10 minutes
• Advanced routine (with extras): 15-25 minutes

Korean skincare is flexible and can be tailored to your lifestyle. Understanding your skin’s needs is key to achieving long-term results. If you need personalized advice, contact our team via live chat for expert recommendations.