The Great Skincare Debate

The Great Skincare Debate

by Alanna Chen

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3 min

“NEVER exfoliate - but exfoliate daily!” "Don't wash your face in the morning - but always double cleanse daily!” 

Skincare advice is everywhere, and often it’s confusing. So what's actually true? We’re here to clear things up - so you can keep your skin clear without all the guesswork.

Just How Many Times Should I Cleanse?

Double-cleansing is a known K-beauty routine. But do we really have to use two cleansers, morning AND night? Some say over-cleansing is unnecessary and even harmful, while others swear by these rituals. What do we say? Yes! Wash your face in the morning, and double-cleanse in the evenings.

Tips for Cleansing Routine:

Morning Cleanse - while you sleep, your skin produces oils, sweat and sheds dead cells resulting in overnight buildup. Use a water-based cleanser to gently remove all of this and prep your skin for the day.

For oily or combination skin, try the Anua Heartleaf Quercetinol Pore Deep Cleansing Foam . If you have dry or sensitive skin, the Haruharu WONDER Black Rice Moisture 5.5 Soft Cleansing Gel offers hydration and a low pH formula that cleanses without stripping your skin. 

Night Cleanse -The cornerstone of K-beauty routines, but does it really make a difference? The first wash with an oil-based cleanser gently breaks down your makeup, sunscreen and excess sebum that water-based cleansers can’t fully remove. The second wash is your water-based cleanser that removes the remaining dirt, sweat, and impurities. 

It’s important to note - double-cleanse only at night- we don’t want to overdo it and irritate your skin barrier! The Heimish All Clean Balm is perfect for all skin types and loved by our Beauties! 

To Exfoliate or Not to Exfoliate Everyday?

Some stand by daily exfoliation for glowing, smooth skin - while others warn against it, claiming it will cause irritation and damage your skin barrier. So, what's the right approach? Start slowly, and build up the frequency only if your skin tolerates it well! Always follow with moisturiser and use sunscreen daily as exfoliating can increase sun sensitivity.

Tips for Exfoliating:

Oily or Combination Skin - You can usually tolerate more frequent exfoliation and will benefit from doing deep exfoliation up to 2-3 times a week - try a product like COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid , which uses Salicylic Acid to unclog pores and control excess oil.

Dry or Sensitive Skin - A gentler approach is needed - exfoliate just once a week or less even! Use very gentle, non-abrasive products - exfoliants with PHAs or mild enzymes such as the Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water , designed to be hydrating and perfect for sensitive skin. 

Should You Skip Moisturiser If You Have Oily Skin?

“Moisturising should be skipped altogether to avoid making your skin greasier.” Myth. The truth is quite the opposite: moisturising is essential for all skin types!

Skipping this crucial step can actually lead to more breakouts - your skin may produce even more oil to compensate! It boils down to the right moisturiser that balances your skin’s hydration levels, regulates oil production and maintains your barrier. 

Look for lightweight gel or water-based formulas. The Purito SEOUL Hydro Wave Deep Sea Cream is a great example and is specifically designed to absorb quickly and provide hydration without clogging pores.

Is Sunscreen Only for Sunny Days?

Sunscreen daily is a non-negotiable for healthy skin - especially in NZ! Our country experiences some of the world’s highest levels of UV radiation, and sunscreen is essential to prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Tips for Sunscreen:

Choose broad spectrum sunscreens that protect against UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. The Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics SPF50+ Broad Spectrum which offers broad spectrum protection, absorbs quickly, and contains Rice extract and probiotics to nourish your skin - perfect for everyday use!

Life is full of contradictions, but skincare? Simple. No matter what trends or debates you see online, the best skincare is what feels right for you - listen to your skin, choose what works best for you and helps your skin look and feel it’s healthiest.


Bye, Beauties x

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