Menu Lifestyle
By Jessie Kim for The Klog
Updated: April 29, 2021
Originally Published: March 5, 2018
Even if you’re blessed with great skin, the sands of time will inevitably leave their mark. Before tying the knot at 24, I was preoccupied with school, often neglecting my skin. Back then, I was youthful and didn’t give much thought to anti-aging. However, my sister-in-law introduced me to the wonders of Korean skincare, and I quickly became passionate about maintaining youthful, firm skin—especially as I entered my fifties.
My skincare enthusiasm is largely inspired by my mother, Yuna Park, who at 53 is a full-time ophthalmologist in Korea and a skincare aficionado. Here’s a deep dive into her comprehensive anti-aging routine, packed with insights for achieving a more youthful appearance.
Cleansing
Instead of the conventional double cleanse, I opt for a triple cleanse using a single all-natural soap devoid of harmful chemicals. I’ve recently discovered the wonders of noni fruit, known for its anti-aging properties, and I wash my face thrice in succession with lukewarm water. This method effectively removes all makeup without stripping my skin of moisture. I stumbled upon a box of these soaps from Venezia during a family trip to Boracay, and I wish I had stocked up for a lifetime!
Toning
Following cleansing, I skip the towel and immediately apply toner. It’s crucial to infuse moisture right after cleansing, so I stay focused during my skincare routine. I prefer spray toners, allowing me to tone without direct contact, minimizing bacterial transfer from my hands. I usually choose toners in dark bottles to protect the formula from sunlight. I recently started enjoying the Benton Snail Bee High Content Skin, which my daughter raved about.
Serum or Essence
I apply a generous amount of serum—sometimes even twice in a session. In the morning, I reach for a Vitamin C serum like Obagi’s Professional-C Serum, recommended by my husband, a plastic surgeon. For the evening, I rely on Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair. Pump or dropper packaging is a must for me to ensure easy application. Two favorites are Iope Live Lift Serum and Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum.
Moisturizer
Given that my skin tends to be thin and dry, proper moisturizing is non-negotiable. If I neglect it, I can visibly see sagging and deepening wrinkles. Instead of frequent misting, I layer a lightweight moisturizer two to three times daily. With two daughters, I often use whatever moisturizers they leave behind. When shopping for moisturizers, I look for those that (1) come with a pump to reduce contamination, (2) have a light texture that won’t clog pores, and (3) provide a hydrating, cooling sensation.
In the morning, I use gentle moisturizers like Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream or Laneige Water Bank Moisture Cream EX. At night, I prefer thicker options, such as Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Cream, sometimes mixed with pure pearl powder for added benefits. Pearl naturally brightens skin and reduces pigmentation, giving my skin a soft and firm texture. I blend the powder with my night cream for a perfect mix, applying it with clean hands and a spatula — a ritual I’ve maintained for two decades.
Plant-Based Oils
Oils have been a staple in my skincare for 25 years. I love those infused with ceramides, like Elizabeth Arden’s Advanced Ceramide Capsules Daily Youth Restoring Serum. I apply oils twice daily, and sometimes during the day, focusing on my face, neck, and hands. I wait for my moisturizer to absorb before applying oil, ensuring I use just the right amount. I also apply coconut oil to my body post-shower and a few drops of avocado oil to my hair.
SPF
The sun is the biggest foe of youthful skin. I wear sunscreen every day, even on makeup-free weekends. Whenever I step outside, even for a quick trip, I don a wide-brimmed hat and large sunglasses to protect my skin from premature aging. I began using sunscreen at 24 with Clinique’s Super City Block, then switched to Obagi, and now use Obagi Professional-C Suncare, which combines antioxidants and Vitamin C for double protection. This routine means I’m brightening my skin constantly, using Vitamin C in the morning and pearls at night. I prioritize products with minimal ingredients—no artificial fragrances or fillers.
Occasional Exfoliation
I exfoliate every three days with a gentle peeling gel that hydrates while removing dead skin cells. For five years, I’ve relied on Orléans Noni Essence for this task.
Weekly Sheet Masks
Once a week, I indulge in a sheet mask, favoring those with hyaluronic acid or pomegranate extracts, like Missha Speedy Solution Brightening Eye Patch or Skinfood Black Pomegranate Gel Mask. I ensure not to exceed 20 minutes for maximum effectiveness.
Avoiding Face Touching
My number one rule for an effective anti-aging regimen is to minimize face touching. Apart from cleansing and moisturizing, I rarely touch my face, particularly my eye area. I frequently wash my pillowcases and even place a clean towel on my pillow every night to maintain cleanliness.
Self-Care
Instead of seeking out expensive techniques to mask poor skin, I focus on enhancing my skin through healthy habits. I wear light makeup to reduce breakouts. I’ve never smoked or drank, and I eat yogurt daily to promote digestive health, which reflects on my skin. A diet rich in vegetables and superfoods, along with green tea over coffee, is my go-to. Yoga and meditation help keep my mind clear and focused.
In summary, my mother’s anti-aging skincare routine emphasizes consistency, quality ingredients, and a holistic approach to wellness. If you’re interested in exploring home insemination options, check out this helpful guide for more information. Additionally, for those looking to dive deeper, find more on home insemination kits from an authority you can trust. Lastly, if you’re navigating pregnancy, this resource is excellent for staying informed on your journey.
Keyphrase: Korean anti-aging skincare routine
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