For years, the Korean 10-step skincare routine has been praised as the ultimate secret behind flawless skin. From cleansers to essences and sheet masks, the method suggests that more steps equal better results. But is following all ten steps truly necessary—or even beneficial—for everyone?
What the 10-Step Routine Promises
At its core, the routine emphasizes gentle cleansing, hydration, and protection. Each step is meant to build on the previous one, helping the skin absorb moisture and active ingredients more effectively. For some people, especially those with dry or resilient skin, this layered approach can feel luxurious and supportive.
When “More” Becomes Too Much
However, skincare experts increasingly point out that piling on products doesn’t always improve skin health. Over-cleansing, frequent exfoliation, or heavy layering can irritate the skin barrier—particularly for sensitive or acne-prone skin. In reality, dermatologists agree that the most essential steps are surprisingly simple: a mild cleanser, a good moisturizer, and daily sunscreen.
Some steps often included in the 10-step routine, such as essences or frequent sheet masks, offer benefits mainly through hydration. Their impact varies widely depending on ingredients and individual skin response, and they are not universally essential.
One Routine Doesn’t Fit All
The biggest misconception about the 10-step routine is that it works the same for everyone. Skin type, climate, lifestyle, and existing skin conditions all play a role.
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Minimal routines often suit sensitive or acne-prone skin better.
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Dry or mature skin may tolerate—and enjoy—extra hydrating layers.
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Many people see excellent results with just three to five well-chosen products.
How to adjust your routine to your personal situation will be discussed in a future post.
Voices on Both Sides: Real Experts, Different Views
To better understand the debate around the Korean 10-step skincare routine, it helps to look at voices that actually shape the conversation online—often from very different perspectives.
Creators Who Support or Adapt the 10-Step Approach
Many K-beauty–focused creators highlight the benefits of layered hydration and mindful skincare:
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Liah Yoo (YouTuber, founder of KraveBeauty) often emphasizes listening to your skin and selectively using multiple steps when appropriate, especially for barrier repair and hydration.
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Korean beauty vloggers and estheticians frequently share real-life routines showing how multiple lightweight layers can improve glow and comfort, particularly for dry or dehydrated skin.
Their content tends to frame the 10-step routine not as a strict rule, but as a flexible toolkit.
Professionals Who Critique the Routine
On the more critical side, many board-certified dermatologists and science-focused educators question the need for so many steps:
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Dr. Dray (board-certified dermatologist) consistently advocates for minimal, fragrance-free routines centered on cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection.
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Dr. Shereene Idriss (Pillowtalk Derm) often points out that more products can increase irritation and that results depend far more on ingredients than on the number of steps.
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Lab Muffin Beauty Science (Michelle Wong, PhD) breaks down skincare myths using cosmetic chemistry, explaining where certain steps help—and where they may simply be redundant.
These voices focus on skin barrier health, clinical evidence, and long-term skin tolerance rather than trends.
The Judgment Is Ultimately Yours
Seeing both supportive and critical perspectives side by side makes one thing clear: there is no universal rule. The Korean 10-step routine can be helpful for some, unnecessary for others, and even problematic if followed blindly.
Rather than choosing a side, the most informed approach is to observe, learn, and experiment carefully.
Take what works, leave what doesn’t—and let your skin, not a checklist, guide the final decision.
The Takeaway
The Korean 10-step skincare routine isn’t a rulebook—it’s a concept. Think of it as a menu rather than a fixed prescription. Healthy skin comes from understanding your own needs, choosing evidence-based products, and being consistent—not from hitting a specific number of steps.