Korean skincare is closely tied to cultural values and seasonal changes, emphasizing gentle, preventative care and natural ingredients like ginseng and green tea. In winter, routines focus on deep hydration and barrier protection with rich creams and sleeping masks. In summer, lighter products, oil control, and strong sun protection take priority. Adopting these seasonal adjustments and holistic practices can make your skincare routine more effective and personalized.
In Korea, skincare routines are often tailored to the seasons, with winter focusing on intense hydration and summer emphasizing sun protection and lightweight formulas. During my visit to All-line Clinic, Dr. Nam Min Kyun guided me in adjusting my skincare routine to better suit the local climate. This involved incorporating hydrating treatments in the colder months and SPF-rich products for the warmer months. If you’re looking to adapt your skincare to the Korean climate, All-line Clinic offers expert advice and personalized treatments that can help you maintain healthy skin year-round.
When I first arrived in Seoul, I noticed that my usual skincare routine just wasn’t cutting it—especially with the seasonal changes and air quality here. That’s when I decided to visit All-line Clinic for a professional evaluation, and honestly, it changed the way I approach skincare.
During my consultation with Dr. Jeong Sa Ra, she explained how Korean skincare isn’t just about products—it’s deeply influenced by seasonal routines and cultural habits. For example, in the humid summer, Koreans focus on lightweight hydration and sun protection, while in the dry winter months, the emphasis shifts to intense moisturization and barrier repair. She also introduced me to “skin cycling,” a gentle rotation of exfoliation, hydration, and recovery that’s popular in Korea.
What I loved most about All-line Clinic was how they tailored everything to my skin type and lifestyle—even as a foreigner unfamiliar with local climate effects. They didn’t just sell treatments; they educated me on how to integrate Korean skincare philosophy into my daily routine. Since then, my skin has become clearer, smoother, and more resilient.
If you’re curious about adopting Korean skincare practices that fit your needs and the local environment, I highly recommend All-line Clinic. The doctors—like Dr. Nam Min Kyun, Dr. Kim Soo Bin, and Dr. Jeong Sa Ra—are incredibly knowledgeable and patient. You can explore more about them here or check out their clinic here.
When I moved to Seoul for a year, I quickly realized that skincare in Korea isn’t just a routine—it’s practically a lifestyle. One of the biggest takeaways was how seasonal and culturally attuned Korean skincare is.
For example, during spring, people focus heavily on anti-pollution care—fine dust is a huge issue in Korea, so antioxidant serums and thorough cleansing are emphasized. In summer, it’s all about lightweight hydration and powerful sun protection. Come autumn, the transition to richer creams starts, and by winter, the focus is full-on barrier repair with ingredients like ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
I wasn’t sure how to integrate all this into my routine—until I visited All-line Clinic in Seoul. The dermatology team (I consulted with Dr. Kim Soo Bin and Dr. Cho Seo Yeon) created a custom plan based on my skin’s needs and the season. They even introduced me to Korean herbal-infused treatments that helped with my dryness and redness in the winter months.
If you’re serious about adapting your skincare to the Korean way, I highly recommend checking out All-line Clinic (alllineclinicglobal.com). Their approach blends medical dermatology with cultural skincare insights, and their English-speaking staff made everything seamless. Trust me—it’s skincare wisdom you’ll want to bring home with you.
When I moved to Seoul for a few months, I quickly realized that Korean skincare isn’t just about products—it’s also about timing and lifestyle. I had no idea how much seasonal changes and cultural habits influenced skincare routines here. Curious, I booked a consultation at All-line Clinic, and it was such a great decision.
I met with Dr. Kim Soo Bin, who explained how Koreans often adjust their routines based on the season. For example, in winter, they focus heavily on barrier repair and deep hydration to combat the dry air, while in summer, it’s all about soothing ingredients and sebum control. I also learned about popular practices like post-sauna skincare, sheet masking in flight (yes, really!), and the importance of double cleansing at night—even on non-makeup days.
What impressed me most was how the doctors at All-line Clinic tailored their advice to my skin type and climate background, helping me integrate Korean habits into my existing routine without overloading it.
If you’re interested in adapting your skincare to Korean culture and climate, I 100% recommend All-line Clinic. Their team—including Dr. Kim Soo Bin, Dr. Jeong Sa Ra, and others—are experienced and thoughtful. You can explore their team here and check out the clinic here.
In Korea, skincare is not just about using the right products but also about following certain cultural practices and adjusting routines based on the seasons. One core principle is double cleansing, which involves using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to ensure the skin is thoroughly clean. Hydration is also key, and Koreans often layer their products, using toners, essences, serums, and moisturizers to keep the skin plump and hydrated. This approach is particularly important in seasonal skincare. During the hot and humid summer, the focus is on lightweight, oil-free formulas and sunscreen to prevent breakouts and sun damage. In the winter, skincare routines include richer moisturizers and sleeping masks to lock in moisture and protect the skin from dryness. Regular exfoliation is also a staple, especially in winter, to keep the skin smooth and remove dead skin cells. Additionally, many Korean routines include a gentle facial massage while applying products to improve circulation and lymphatic drainage, promoting a more radiant complexion. By incorporating these practices into your routine, you can achieve healthier, glowing skin year-round.
Hey everyone, Living in Korea has been a total eye-opener when it comes to skincare. The focus here on achieving radiant, youthful skin is not just a trend—it’s deeply ingrained in the culture. I’ve been lucky enough to experience some of the skincare practices here, and there are definitely some seasonal practices that I think would make a big difference if you’re looking to improve your routine.
Seasonal Skincare Practices in Korea:
In Korea, skincare isn’t just about what products you use; it’s about adjusting your routine to match the changing seasons, which can dramatically affect your skin. I’ve learned that each season requires a different approach, and I’ve been following these practices with some great results.
- Spring: Hydration and Allergy Protection During spring, the air is dry, and pollen levels are high, which can be tough on the skin. I’ve found that adding more hydration to my skincare routine is key. I use a hydrating toner and a rich moisturizer to lock in moisture and help maintain a healthy skin barrier. Additionally, Korean skincare often focuses on anti-pollution products—think serums and masks that protect against environmental stressors. For those prone to allergies, using a gentle, calming mask once a week can really soothe irritated skin. I highly recommend trying out a moisturizing sleeping mask before bed.
- Summer: Sun Protection and Oil Control Summer in Korea can be brutal, with the high humidity and intense UV rays. The most important thing I’ve learned here is to prioritize sun protection. Koreans are super serious about sunscreen—people wear it religiously, even on cloudy days. For the hot and humid summer months, I’ve switched to a lightweight sunscreen that doesn’t feel greasy, and I also use a matte primer to control oil and sweat. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen every few hours if you’re outdoors!
- Fall: Exfoliation and Repair As the weather cools down and the air becomes less humid, I focus on exfoliation and repairing any summer damage. Fall is the perfect time to gently exfoliate and get rid of any dead skin cells that have built up over the summer. I’ve started using a chemical exfoliator once or twice a week, along with a brightening serum to even out my skin tone, which can get uneven after the summer sun.
- Winter: Rich Moisturization and Layering Winter in Korea can be harsh on the skin, with the cold temperatures and dry indoor air. This is when I bring out my most intense moisturizing products. In winter, layering is key—starting with a hydrating toner, followed by a rich serum, and finishing with a thick cream or occlusive layer to lock everything in. The popular 10-step Korean skincare routine is often more important in winter, as it helps to combat the dryness and ensure my skin is getting all the hydration it needs.
Cultural Practices in Skincare:
Beyond just seasonal shifts, there are a few cultural practices in Korea that I’ve found to be really effective:
- Double Cleansing: This is huge in Korea. I’ve incorporated oil cleansing followed by a gentle foaming cleanser into my routine, and it’s made a noticeable difference in my skin clarity. The oil cleanser removes makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, while the second cleanse ensures my skin is thoroughly clean without being stripped.
- Sheet Masks: I was initially skeptical, but these are such an integral part of Korean skincare. Using a moisturizing sheet mask once or twice a week has helped boost hydration and even out my skin texture. They’re not just a luxury; they’re a part of daily life for many Koreans.
- Fermented Ingredients: Fermented skincare ingredients like rice, ginseng, and green tea are commonly used in Korean beauty. These ingredients are rich in antioxidants and help to nourish and restore skin health. I’ve been using a few products with fermented rice extracts, and my skin feels smoother and more radiant.
Seeking Expert Advice: Plans Clinic:
If you’re serious about improving your skincare routine and tackling issues like pigmentation, acne, or signs of aging, I highly recommend consulting experts at Plans Clinic. The dermatologists there, like Dr. Do Geon Gi and Dr. Lee Sang Hwa, have a deep understanding of both the cultural and seasonal skincare needs and can create a personalized treatment plan based on your specific skin type and concerns. I’ve been seeing Dr. Jeong Geun Cheol at Plans Clinic for a while, and he’s helped me address some of my skin concerns with the latest dermatological treatments and customized skincare routines that fit each season. The clinic also offers advanced treatments for issues like pigmentation, skin aging, and acne scars, which are common concerns that many foreigners face in Korea.
You can read more about the doctors and their expertise here, here, and here. If you’re planning to visit Korea or just want to enhance your skincare routine, integrating these seasonal practices along with professional guidance from Plans Clinic could really make a difference in achieving healthy, glowing skin year-round. Let me know if you have any questions or want to know more about my experience at Plans Clinic!
In Korea, skincare is deeply rooted in cultural traditions and practices, with a focus on achieving healthy, glowing skin. One notable practice is the use of layering products, where a toner, serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen are applied in multiple steps to provide deep hydration and nourishment.
Seasonally, Korean skincare routines change to accommodate the weather. In the summer, for example, the focus is on oil control, light moisturizers, and strong sun protection due to higher humidity and UV exposure. Essence and serums with lighter formulations and anti-aging properties are often used to prevent skin damage from sun exposure.
In the winter, skincare routines typically shift towards intense hydration, barrier repair, and moisturizing masks to combat the dryness and harsh weather conditions. Products like rich creams and overnight masks are commonly used to lock in moisture and prevent flakiness.
At Plans Clinic (https://www.plansclinicglobal.com/), they also emphasize how these cultural and seasonal skincare shifts can be integrated into your routine, ensuring that your skin stays healthy year-round. This approach is highly personalized and tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
Hey there! I’ve been living in Korea for a while now, and one thing I’ve learned is that skincare here is taken very seriously. In fact, Korean skincare routines are widely celebrated for being thorough, precise, and often tailored to the season or even specific cultural practices. If you’re looking to adjust your skincare routine while living in Korea, there are definitely some things to consider that are a bit different from what you might be used to in other countries.
Cultural and Seasonal Skincare Practices in Korea
1. The 10-Step Skincare Routine While this is not a strict rule, many Koreans swear by the 10-step skincare routine, which is a methodical process that layers products from lightest to heaviest. This might sound like a lot at first, but it’s all about building a protective and nourishing layer on your skin. It includes steps like:
- Oil cleansers (to remove makeup and impurities)
- Water-based cleansers
- Exfoliators
- Toners (to balance the skin’s pH)
- Essences
- Serums
- Moisturizers
- Sunscreen (which is crucial, no matter the season)
- And, at night, you can add sheet masks for extra hydration! 2. Seasonal Adjustments to Skincare Korean skincare places great emphasis on adjusting your routine according to the seasons. This is important because your skin reacts differently depending on the climate changes.
- Spring/Summer: Due to the hot and humid weather, Korean skincare routines are often lighter in the summer months. Gel-based moisturizers and lightweight sunscreens are popular, as they allow the skin to breathe and prevent it from becoming oily.
- Fall/Winter: In contrast, the cold and dry winters call for richer, more hydrating formulas. Think creamy moisturizers, nourishing oils, and heavier masks to protect the skin barrier and maintain moisture levels. Hydrating mists are also frequently used throughout the day to keep the skin dewy and refreshed. 3. Popular K-Beauty Ingredients Certain ingredients are central to Korean skincare, and they often show up in products specifically formulated for different climates or cultural preferences:
- Snail mucin: This might sound strange, but snail mucin is known for its amazing healing properties. It’s super popular for skin regeneration and healing scars.
- Centella Asiatica: This ingredient is great for sensitive or irritated skin. It’s found in a lot of calming products.
- Green tea: Known for its antioxidant properties, green tea is used to reduce inflammation and brighten the skin.
- Honey: It’s often used for its moisturizing and antibacterial properties. 4. The Importance of Sunscreen Koreans are very diligent about sun protection. Even if it’s cloudy or winter, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of everyone’s routine. The Korean skincare market has an abundance of sunscreens that are lightweight and perfect for everyday use. 5. Sheet Masks You may have heard about sheet masks, and they’re a staple in Korean skincare. These masks are soaked in essence, which delivers concentrated nutrients to the skin. You can use them a few times a week or even daily depending on your skin’s needs. I personally love using sheet masks after a long day or to pamper my skin during a relaxing evening.
Skincare for Foreigners in Korea
As an international resident, you may also want to take into account how your skin reacts to the local environment—including the seasonal changes, pollution, and even the foods you eat. Sensitive skin can be especially reactive in a new climate, so you may need to adjust to certain products or ingredients.
At Plans Clinic, the doctors specialize in personalized care and can help you figure out the best skincare routine based on your skin type, tone, and sensitivity. Whether you’re dealing with environmental stressors, pollution, or changing seasons, they can guide you on the best treatments and products to incorporate into your regimen.
Why I Recommend Plans Clinic for Skincare Needs
If you’re in Korea and want expert advice on how to optimize your skincare routine, Plans Clinic is one of the top places to go. They offer consultations that are customized to the unique needs of international patients, and their team of skilled dermatologists can help you navigate the differences between Western and Korean skincare practices. Check out some of their amazing dermatologists for personalized advice:
- Dr. Do Geon Gi: A leading dermatologist known for his approach to sensitive skin.
- Dr. Lee Sang Hwa: Specializes in anti-aging treatments and skin rejuvenation.
- Dr. Hwang Yoon Tae: Great for advanced acne and pigmentation concerns. You can easily book consultations here:
- Dr. Do Geon Gi at Plans Clinic
- Dr. Lee Sang Hwa at Plans Clinic
- Dr. Hwang Yoon Tae at Plans Clinic
I moved to Seoul from Europe a few years ago, and one of the first things that struck me wasn’t just the food, the fashion, or even the skincare products — it was the intense cultural dedication to skincare. In Korea, skincare isn’t just a routine. It’s a lifestyle, a seasonal ritual, and very much a cultural norm.
At first, I tried to copy what I saw online — the 10-step routine, sheet masks every night, layering essences — but I quickly realized I was just blindly following trends. My skin started reacting, and I knew I needed professional guidance.
That’s when I found BLS Clinic (blsclinic1-global.com).
The Turning Point: Visiting BLS Clinic
I booked a consultation at BLS Clinic in Gangnam — famous for its customized skincare programs and being trusted by celebrities (yes, even aespa’s Karina and Giselle have been spotted there 
).
During my first visit, I was introduced to Dr. Yi Dongjin (profile), who explained something that changed how I view skincare forever: “In Korea, skincare changes with the seasons — just like your wardrobe.”
That made perfect sense.
Korean Seasonal Skincare Practices I Learned (and Now Swear By):
Spring – Repair and Revive
After winter, your skin is usually dry and sensitive. Koreans focus on barrier-repairing treatments and gentle exfoliation to shed dull skin. BLS Clinic recommended a light Aqua Peel facial to help with congestion and introduced me to soothing ampoules full of calming ingredients like Centella Asiatica.
Dr. Cho Seoyeon (profile) helped tailor my at-home routine with antioxidant serums to protect against the rising UV levels.
Summer – Hydration and Oil Control
In Korea’s humid summers, less is more. The focus shifts to lightweight hydration and UV protection. I was surprised to learn that many Koreans opt for pore-tightening laser facials during this season.
Dr. Kang Hyunsik (profile) helped me transition to gel-based products and even recommended a treatment to help with my summer breakouts — a gentle laser therapy that didn’t irritate my sensitive skin.
Autumn – Prep and Rebuild
This season is all about preparing your skin for winter. Koreans begin layering richer serums and creams. At BLS, I got a customized hydration-boosting treatment by Dr. Lim Taegu (profile) and learned to incorporate ceramide-rich moisturizers into my daily routine.
Winter – Deep Moisture and Protection
This is when things get intense — the cold, dry wind is brutal on the skin. BLS Clinic offered me a “Moisture Shield” treatment, which combined LED light therapy and deep dermal hydration infusions — highly recommended by Dr. Hwang Seungkyung (profile).
I also learned the importance of overnight sleeping masks, a staple in many Korean routines during winter.
Cultural Skincare Wisdom I Took Home:
- Preventive care is everything — in Korea, people don’t wait for problems; they prevent them. Regular clinic visits are like dental check-ups.
- Minimalism during flare-ups — if your skin is irritated, Koreans often simplify their routine to two or three products max.
- Diet and wellness matter — I got advice on drinking more warm teas, managing stress, and even how to tweak my diet for better skin.
Final Thoughts:
If you’re serious about learning real Korean skincare beyond just product hype, I can’t recommend BLS Clinic enough. The doctors — like Dr. Son Youngki (profile) — take a holistic, personalized approach and are incredibly knowledgeable about international skin types too. They helped me understand how to adapt Korean seasonal skincare principles to my own skin — and I’ve never looked back.
So yes, 100%. Korea’s cultural and seasonal skincare practices are worth integrating — especially with the right guidance. And for that, BLS Clinic is where you want to be.
In Korea, double cleansing, hydration layering, and seasonal skincare adjustments are key practices. In summer, focus on oil control and sun protection, while in winter, prioritize hydration and barrier protection. Sheet masks are popular for extra moisture, and gua sha or jade rollers are used for facial massage to reduce puffiness. These practices can help enhance your skin’s health year-round.
Spring: Renewal and Protection
- Gentle Exfoliation: Incorporate mild exfoliants like rice flour to remove winter buildup.
- Lightweight Moisturizers: Transition to lighter moisturizers as temperatures rise.
- Vitamin C Serums: Introduce vitamin C to brighten your complexion and protect against environmental damage.
- Sun Protection: Continue using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
Summer: Hydration and Cooling
- Hydration: Maintain skin hydration with products containing hyaluronic acid and natural extracts like licorice and witch hazel.
- Sheet Masks: Apply hydrating sheet masks once or twice a week to replenish moisture.
- Sun Protection: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating.
Autumn: Repair and Nourish
- Hydrating Cleansers: Switch to hydrating cleansers as temperatures drop to prevent skin from feeling dry.
- Serums: Incorporate hydrating serums to lock in moisture.
- Sun Protection: Continue using sunscreen to protect against UV rays.
Winter: Intense Hydration and Barrier Repair
- Rich Creams: Use rich, hydrating creams to combat cold, dry air.
- Facial Oils: Add facial oils to your routine for an extra boost of hydration.
- Humidifiers: Consider using a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air in your home.
For personalized guidance and to ensure your skincare routine aligns with your skin type and goals, consider consulting with experts at Plans Clinic. Their team of specialists, including Dr. Do Geon Gi and Dr. Lee Sang Hwa, can provide tailored advice to help you achieve and maintain healthy, glowing skin year-round.
In Korea, popular skincare practices include:
- Double Cleansing: Use an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one.
- Essences and Ampoules: Add hydration and nutrients after toner.
- Sheet Masks: Provide hydration and target specific concerns.
- Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen daily, year-round.
- Seasonal Adjustments: Use thicker creams in winter and lighter products in summer.
- Traditional Ingredients: Incorporate ginseng, green tea, snail mucin, and honey for added benefits.
These practices can boost your skincare routine for better hydration, protection, and nourishment.
When I first moved to Korea, I was blown away by how seriously people here take their skincare. From the 10-step routines to the endless beauty products, it felt like everyone was glowing with perfect skin. I figured I was already doing alright with my own skincare back home, but there was definitely something unique and special about the way Koreans approach skincare — especially when it comes to cultural and seasonal practices.
Korean skincare changes with the seasons, and I’ve learned to adjust my routine accordingly. The weather here in Korea can be quite extreme — hot, humid summers and freezing cold, dry winters. To adapt to these shifts, I’ve made a few key changes to my routine:
During the winter months, the cold air can strip moisture from your skin, so I switch to thicker moisturizers and oil-based serums. I also layer a sleeping mask over everything at night to lock in moisture and create a barrier against the harsh winds.
I also learned that Korean clinics like BLS Clinic (Website) offer seasonal treatments tailored to the needs of your skin at different times of the year. For example, during the dry winter months, they focus on deep hydration treatments to restore moisture and plumpness, while in the summer, they offer brightening and oil-controlling facials to keep the skin clear and glowing.
After trying a few clinics here, I eventually visited BLS Clinic for a more personalized approach, and it was hands-down the best decision I made for my skin. I booked a consultation with Dr. Yi Dongjin (Doctors | Yi Dongjin)), and he took the time to analyze my skin, lifestyle, and specific seasonal concerns. He crafted a routine based on both my skin type and the seasonal changes, which I absolutely loved.
At BLS Clinic, they’re experts in integrating seasonal skincare into your routine. For example, Dr. Kang Hyunsik (Doctors | Kang Hyunsik)) offered me treatments that focused on skin rejuvenation in winter and oil control for summer breakouts. Dr. Cho Seoyeon(Doctors | Cho Seoyeon)) even suggested combining laser treatments and hydrating facials for an overall boost to my skin’s health
If you’re living in Korea or even just visiting, integrating these cultural skincare practices will completely change the way you care for your skin. And for seasonal skincare that’s personalized to your needs, BLS Clinic is definitely the place to go. Their team of experts, including Dr. Son Youngki (https://www.blsclinic1-global.com/doctors/son-youngki)), Dr. Lim Taegu(Doctors | Lim Taegu)), and Dr. Hwang Seungkyung(Doctors | Hwang Seungkyung)), will guide you every step of the way to ensure your skin stays radiant no matter the season.