K-Beauty Summer Glow: 5 Essential Korean Skincare Steps for Radiant Summer Skin

Summer is here, bringing with it sunshine, longer days, and the perfect excuse to embrace a fresh, dewy glow. But with the heat and increased sun exposure, achieving that radiant summer skin requires a little extra care and attention. Fear not! This guide will walk you through five essential steps, according to Korean skincare experts, to unlock your inner luminosity and rock that healthy summer glow all season long.

Step 1: Always Start with Gentle Cleansing!

• Forget harsh scrubs that can strip your skin of their natural moisture. Summer skin thrives on gentle cleansing. Opt for lightweight, hydrating cleansers – think milky textures, cleansing oils, or gentle foams. These will effectively remove sweat, sunscreen, and impurities without disrupting your skin's delicate barrier.

• K-Beauty Pro Tip: Cleanse your face twice a day, especially after sweating or spending time outdoors. Consider a double cleanse in the evening, starting with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve sunscreen and makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser to purify further.

Step 2: Hydration, Hydration, Hydration (Inside and Out!)

Summer heat can quickly dehydrate your skin, leading to a dull and lackluster complexion. Combat this by prioritizing hydration both internally and externally.

Internally: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Infusing your water with fruits like cucumber, lemon, or berries can make it more appealing and add a boost of antioxidants.

Externally: Incorporate lightweight, hydrating serums and moisturizers into your skincare routine. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe vera, which draw moisture into the skin without feeling heavy or greasy. Gel-based or lotion formulas are ideal for summer.

The Youth&Glow serum has a gel-based texture that contains ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C. It has a triple property for skin hydration, brightening, and wrinkle care.

During summer, it is best advised to apply it at night after cleansing and in the morning before sunscreen.

Step 3: Sunscreen is Your Summer BFF (Broad Spectrum is Key!)

This cannot be stressed enough: sunscreen is the most crucial step in your summer skincare routine. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is not just about preventing sunburn; it's about preventing premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

• Choose Wisely: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. "Broad spectrum" means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.  

• Apply Generously: Don't skimp on the application! Most people don't use enough sunscreen. Aim for about a shot glass full for your entire body.

• Reapply Regularly: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Keep a travel-sized sunscreen handy for on-the-go touch-ups.

Step 4: Exfoliate for a Smooth Canvas (But Don't Overdo It!)

Gentle exfoliation helps to slough away dead skin cells that can dull your complexion, revealing brighter and smoother skin underneath. However, during the summer months, it's important to be mindful not to over-exfoliate, as this can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

• Choose Gentle Options: Opt for chemical exfoliants like AHAs (glycolic and lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) in lower concentrations, used once or twice a week. Avoid harsh physical scrubs that can cause micro-tears in the skin.

• Listen to Your Skin: If you notice any redness, irritation, or increased sensitivity, reduce the frequency of exfoliation. Always follow up with a hydrating moisturizer and sunscreen after exfoliating.

Gentle serums like Serumkind YelloMello Serum contain AHAs and BHAs. They gently remove dead skin cells and clogged pores, resulting in healthy, radiant skin.

Step 5: Embrace Lightweight Makeup 

Summer is the perfect time to embrace a more natural makeup look. Heavy foundations and powders can feel cakey and suffocating in the heat. Instead, opt for lightweight alternatives that enhance your natural radiance.

• Tinted Moisturizers or BB Creams: These provide light coverage while hydrating and often containing SPF.

• Cream Blushes and Bronzers: These blend seamlessly into the skin for a dewy, natural flush.

• Highlighters: A touch of liquid or cream highlighter on the high points of your face (cheekbones, brow bones, Cupid's bow) will enhance your summer glow.