How to Get Glass Skin: A Beginner’s 6-Step Korean Beauty Routine

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the luminous skin of a K-drama star, quietly wondering about the secret behind it?

If the world of Korean skincare feels like an intricate puzzle, filled with unfamiliar steps and terms, you’re not alone. Many of us have browsed countless routines, only to feel more lost. This guide was created to simplify that world, a thoughtful, beginner-focused introduction to K-beauty tailored for Dubai’s unique climate and lifestyle.

This simplified 6-step Korean skincare routine captures the essence of K-beauty. While less elaborate than the iconic 10-step version, it remains deeply indulgent and remarkably effective.

What Makes Korean Skincare Unique?

At its core, K-beauty is about respecting your skin's rhythm. It’s not about quick fixes, but about layering lightweight, hydrating formulas that restore balance and enhance your natural radiance. In a city like Dubai, where sun, dryness, and pollution are constants, K-beauty provides a gentle yet transformative approach to daily skincare.

The 6-Step Korean Skincare Routine

Step 1: Oil Cleanser – Dissolve the Day

An oil-based cleanser is the first essential step. It gently removes sunscreen, makeup, and impurities without stripping or tugging.

Recommended:

• Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm – AED 85

• Heimish All Clean Balm – AED 80

• The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Cleansing Oil – AED 65

Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser – The Double Cleanse Magic

After melting away makeup and sunscreen with your oil cleanser, follow up with a water-based cleanser to sweep away any remaining residue, sweat, or dirt. This second cleanse is key to preventing breakouts, without drying out your skin.

Recommended:

• COSRX Low ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser – AED 55

•  Innisfree Green Tea Foam Cleanser – AED 48

•  Neogen Real Fresh Foam Cleanser (Green Tea) – AED 85

  
  

Step 3: Exfoliation (2–3 Times a Week) – A Gentle Renewal

Think of exfoliation as a reset button for your skin. Done two to three times a week, it helps lift away dead skin cells, unclog pores, and brighten dull areas, revealing a smoother, more even complexion. The key is to choose gentle formulas that refresh without irritation.

Recommended:

• Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle Toner – AED 69

•  Peach & Lily Super Reboot Resurfacing Mask – AED 165

•  Dr. G Brightening Peeling Gel – AED 85

  
  

Step 4: Toner – Reset and Rehydrate

After cleansing, the toner acts as the first layer of hydration. It helps rebalance your skin’s ph and allows the next steps, like serums and essences, to absorb more effectively. Look for soothing, alcohol-free formulas that nourish without irritation.

Recommended:

•  Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner – AED 89

• Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer – AED 125

•  Pyunkang Yul Essence Toner – AED 85

Step 5: Essence, Serum, or Ampoule – The Skin’s Treatment Phase

Now it’s time to treat your skin with targeted ingredients. Whether you're looking to brighten dark spots, boost hydration, or smooth fine lines, this step delivers active ingredients where they’re needed most. Choose one based on your current skin goals.

Recommended:

• COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence – AED 95

• Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence – AED 145

• Dear, Klairs Freshly Juiced Vitamin C Serum – AED 110

Step 6: Moisturizer + SPF (Day) / Sleeping Mask (Night)

Seal in all the goodness with a final layer of moisture. During the day, use a lightweight cream followed by SPF, absolutely essential in Dubai’s intense sun. At night, switch to a richer cream or sleeping mask that works overnight to hydrate and repair.

Recommended:

Day Creams (Hydration + Barrier Support):

•  Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb – AED 165

• Etude House SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream – AED 95

SPF (Daily Protection Must-Haves):

• Purito Centella Unscented SPF 50+ – AED 85

•  COSRX Aloe Soothing Sun Cream SPF 50+ – AED 80

Night Creams/Sleeping Masks (Deep Repair):

• Laneige Water Sleeping Mask – AED 125

• COSRX Ultimate Nourishing Rice Overnight Mask – AED 85

• Sulwhasoo Overnight Vitalizing Mask – AED 250

Where to Buy Korean Skincare in Dubai and the UAE

There’s no need to wait for international shipping. These trusted UAE retailers offer curated K-beauty selections and swift delivery:

• Tryano – Luxuriously curated skincare, including exclusive gift sets.

• Sephora Middle East – Stockist of Laneige, Dr. Jart+, COSRX and more.

• Noon & Amazon UAE – Ideal for discovering skincare staples and value bundles

If you’re just getting started and don’t know where to begin, Tryano’s K-Beauty Box is the ultimate cheat code. It includes mini versions of bestselling K-beauty products, perfect for a trial before splurging. Plus, it makes for a cute gift!

Gentle Guidance for Beginners in Dubai

• Always patch test-  Dubai’s climate can amplify sensitivity, so it’s wise to introduce new products with care.

• Layer lightly- Especially in humidity, thin, breathable layers are more effective than heavy creams.

• SPF is non-negotiable- Even indoors, daily protection is essential.

• Be patient- Visible results typically take 4–6 weeks. With consistency comes a beautifully refined glow.

If you're ready to upgrade your skincare game, K-beauty is a gentle, luxurious place to start. It's not just about the glow (though yes, you will glow). It's about slowing down, caring for your skin like you mean it, and finding joy in your routine.