Korean skincare has become a global phenomenon, and with its rise in popularity, there are also many misconceptions about how it works, what it includes, and who it’s for. If you’re just getting into K-beauty or have been following it for a while, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. In this post, we’re breaking down five common myths about Korean skincare—and what you should know instead.
Myth 1: Korean skincare is only about the 10-step routine
One of the most widespread beliefs is that Korean skincare always involves 10 steps. While the 10-step routine became popular for showcasing how thorough K-beauty can be, most people in Korea don’t follow it every single day.
What truly defines Korean skincare is flexibility and skin-first thinking. Whether you use 3 steps or 7, the focus is on hydration, layering lightweight products, and listening to your skin’s needs—not blindly following a fixed number of steps.
Myth 2: It’s only for young skin
Many assume that Korean skincare is only effective for people in their teens or twenties, especially because the packaging often looks playful and youthful. In reality, Korean skincare covers all stages of life, including anti-aging and mature skin care.
From ginseng serums that promote firmness to peptide-rich creams that improve elasticity, the K-beauty market includes a wide range of age-targeted products. Age is never a barrier—hydration and barrier support are essential at any stage.
Myth 3: Korean skincare is only for Asian skin types
Korean skincare is developed with a broad focus on skin health and is suitable for all skin tones and types. The formulations are designed to be gentle, hydrating, and effective without relying on harsh ingredients, which makes them ideal for anyone dealing with sensitivity, acne, dryness, or oiliness.
More brands are now expanding their reach with inclusive campaigns and product testing across a variety of skin types around the world. You don’t have to be Korean or have “glass skin” to benefit from the routines and ingredients.
Myth 4: K-beauty is all about trends, not science
It’s easy to think Korean skincare is just trendy because of viral TikTok routines or cute packaging, but behind the aesthetics is serious innovation. Korea has one of the most competitive beauty industries in the world, and that drives constant research and development.
Fermented ingredients, encapsulated actives, and multifunctional formulas are just a few examples of how Korean brands stay ahead scientifically. K-beauty doesn’t chase trends—it often sets them.
Myth 5: You need to use only Korean products for it to work
While many Korean skincare products work beautifully together, it’s not a rule that your entire routine must come from Korean brands. The principles of Korean skincare—like layering, hydration, and barrier repair—can be applied using products from various origins.
You can mix K-beauty with Western skincare, as long as you’re using ingredients that complement each other and not overloading your skin. It’s all about creating a balanced, consistent routine that suits your needs.
Focus on what works, not the myths
Korean skincare is more than a buzzword or a viral trend—it’s a thoughtful, evolving approach to skin health that can benefit everyone. By understanding what’s true and what’s not, you can build a routine that’s effective, flexible, and right for your skin. Let go of the myths, and focus on what really works.
