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Is 10 Steps Too Much? How to Build a Realistic Skincare Ritual in 3, 5 or 7

Spoiler: There are no rules—only rhythms.

The famous 10-step routine might be the most well-known export of Korean beauty, but the truth is, K-beauty is about flexibility, not overwhelm. You don’t need every product on the shelf. You just need a Korean skincare routine that reflects your needs, your time, and your skin.

Whether you’re short on time, starting from scratch, or craving more intention in your ritual, this post will walk you through how to build a 3, 5, or 7-step routine—without losing the benefits K-beauty is known for.

Why the 10-Step Routine Exists (and Why You Don’t Need It)

The 10-step routine was originally meant to educate—not dictate.

It showcased categories like:

  • Double cleansing
  • Hydrating layers
  • Serums and actives
  • Occlusive moisturisers
  • Sun protection

But in reality? Most K-beauty users mix and match steps depending on:

  • Time of day
  • Season or climate
  • Skin condition
  • Stress, sleep, or cycle

 K-beauty is a menu—not a checklist. AGASKIN helps you design your plate.

How to Build a 3-Step Korean Skincare Routine

For beginners, barrier recovery, or skin that’s just had enough.

Step 1: Cleanse

Use a low-pH gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip.
🔎 Try: SoonJung Whip Cleanser or Round Lab Dokdo Cleanser

Step 2: Tone or Treat

Use a hydrating essence or mild serum with calming ingredients like centella or panthenol.
🔎 Try: Isntree Hyaluronic Toner or Mixsoon Centella Essence

Step 3: Moisturise + Protect

Lock in with a barrier cream or SPF if AM.
🔎 Try: Illiyoon Ceramide Cream or Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun

💡 Who it’s perfect for:

  • Morning routines
  • Teens, beginners, or anyone burnt out
  • Reactive or sensitised skin types

How to Build a 5-Step Routine

For when your skin needs a bit more—but your time still matters.

Step 1: Cleanse

Gentle is still key. Stick with non-stripping formulas.

Step 2: Tone

Layer hydration with something like a watery toner.
🔎 Try: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Toner

Step 3: Serum or Ampoule

Target pigmentation, breakouts, or barrier damage.
🔎 Try: Some By Mi Snail Truecica Serum (for brightening)
🔎 Try: Torriden Dive-In Serum (for hydration)

Step 4: Moisturiser

Use one that supports your skin type and barrier.
🔎 Try: Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream or Etude SoonJung Barrier Cream

Step 5: SPF (AM) or Sleeping Pack (PM)

Top off with full protection or occlusion.
🔎 Try: Round Lab Birch Juice Sunscreen
🔎 Try: Laneige Cica Sleeping Mask

💡 Ideal for:

  • Acne-prone skin
  • Hormonal flare-ups
  • Dry or dehydrated days

How to Build a 7-Step Routine

For those who love the ritual—or need a little extra right now.

Step 1: Oil Cleanse (PM only)

Lift makeup, SPF, and debris.
🔎 Try: Hanskin PHA Cleansing Oil

Step 2: Foam Cleanse

Follow up with a mild water-based cleanser.
🔎 Try: Anua Heartleaf Cleanser

Step 3: Hydrating Toner

Add your first layer of hydration.
🔎 Try: Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner

Step 4: Essence

Go deeper with skin-supportive ferments or humectants.
🔎 Try: Mixsoon Bean Essence

Step 5: Serum

Choose based on concern: pigmentation, acne, fine lines.
🔎 Try: Numbuzin No.3 Skin Softening Serum

Step 6: Moisturiser

Look for barrier-repair or firming textures.
🔎 Try: COSRX Balancium Comfort Ceramide Cream

Step 7: SPF (AM) or Night Mask (PM)

Protect, or lock it in overnight.

🔎 Try: Beauty of Joseon Sun Relief SPF 50+
🔎 Try: I’m From Mugwort Mask

💡 When to use:

  • Skin needs a reset
  • You’re treating multiple concerns
  • You enjoy your skincare as self-care

Final Thought: Skincare Is Personal. Ritual Makes It Powerful.

You don’t need a million products. You need rhythm.

Whether it’s 3, 5 or 7 steps, the best routine is one you actually love enough to do—consistently.

✨ The real K-beauty secret? Patience. Kindness. Progress. Not perfection.

💬 FAQs: Simplifying Korean Skincare

No. K-beauty encourages adapting to your skin’s needs. Some days are 3 steps. Some are 7. Listen to your skin.
Not always. But layers allow you to tailor hydration and actives without overloading. It’s one of K-beauty’s smartest tools.
They do different things. Essences hydrate and prep. Serums target and treat. You can use both or just one.
Only if you’re staying indoors with blackout blinds. Otherwise—SPF is non-negotiable.

🧡 Need Help Customising Your Steps?

Let’s build your glow by listening to your skin—not marketing.

Whether you’re new to skincare or evolving your routine, AGASKIN is here to guide.

👉 Book a 1:1 Ritual Consultation
👉 Explore Products by Skin Concern
👉 Read: Barrier Before Brightening