7-Skin Method: a K-beauty hack for the ultimate hydrated glow!

Winter is fast approaching and that means one thing: it’s time to get cosy! Whether you're dreaming of hot chocolates, cozy PJ's, or a roaring fireplace, the cold weather gives us much to look forward to. 

And some things to dread…

Throughout the winter months, we’re more often exposed to frosty air and central heating – two culprits that leave our skin looking dull and feeling dry. As the cold weather approaches, our skincare routine needs a little shakeup to properly care for our skin. 

While drinking plenty of water and investing in a good moisturiser can work wonders for hydration, there’s another K-Beauty phenomenon that may just be the solution to chapped, dry skin this winter.

The 7-skin method is taking the beauty world by storm and is relatively simple to add to your routine. It is based on the principle of applying seven layers of hydrating toner (or essence) to your skincare routine.

Asian skincare commonly refers to toner as a “skin”. As part of the 7-skin method, you can use between one and seven different toners to build a hydrating skincare routine that plumps, brightens, and calms your skin.

Thanks to the dry winter air, our skin is easily dehydrated during the winter months. Applying layers of toner aids hydration by helping your skin to retain moisture. With each layer you apply, the humectants of the toner helps to draw water molecules from the atmosphere and into the epidermis. 

But that’s not all – hydrated skin is a better base for other skin and beauty products including serums, acids, and moisturisers, making your other products more effective. And, just like any hydrating routine, this fantastic Korean skincare method can help to restore a strong natural microbiome.

Oily skin is often dehydrated. The 7-skin method can help to hydrate the skin and balance oil production without the need for greasy moisturisers and drying products that make acne-prone skin flare. 

During the winter months, dry skin is easily irritated. While moisturising products help to seal each layer of your routine, the 7-skin method provides the hydration needed to keep your skin happy and healthy.

There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to the 7-skin method, except this: your layers of toner should go after your cleanser and before your moisturiser.

To start with, we recommend starting with one or two toners and layering up to seven times. Ideally, we would recommend looking for a lightweight toner that incorporates hanbang (traditional Korean medicine) ingredients such as Ginseng, Green Tea, and Licorice.  When using one or more toner, it’s always best to start with toners that have a thinner texture like an essence or tonic and continue with the thicker consistencies. 

Simply dispense your toner into your palm and gently pat, tap, and press the toner into your skin to fill the epidermis with water molecules for total hydration. 

As you get used to applying seven layers, you can add new toners to your routine, each chosen to suit your specific skin concerns. Incorporate the treatment into your skincare routine 2-3 times per week or as you feel your skin needs it.

Ritual tip:  Avoid toners that contain acids 

There are hundreds of different toners to choose from. And, although the 7-skin method is primarily for hydration, it can help to target other skin concerns thanks to fantastic ingredients.

Licorice
The Acwell Licorice pH Balance Cleansing toner is ideal for the 7-skin method as it is extremely lightweight, contains the beneficial brightening ingredients found in licorice, and is ideal for those with sensitive skin.

Black Rice
The Haruharu Black Rice Toner is a popular choice for the 7-skin method. Formulated with black rice, a protective antioxidant that calms irritation and fights dullness, Haruharu’s toner is the ideal option for soft, supple, and plump skin throughout the cold months. 

Green Tea
Green tea extract is another popular ingredient in Asian skincare products. Green tea contains amino acids, minerals, polyphenol, and protein, all of which work to relieve inflammation. The Isntree Green Tea Fresh Toner contains 80% of Jeju green tea extra to hydrate and refresh skin. The Instree Green Tea Fresh Toner is a watery consistency that makes it the perfect first step of a seven-skin routine.

The  7-skin method for beginners
Starting any new skincare routine can feel a little overwhelming at first. We suggest keeping it simple by trying one or two toners at a time. Opt for nutrient-rich products that you know and trust then gradually add different products once you've got the hang of it.

Take your time with it and be sure to allow sufficient time for each 'layer' to be absorbed.  It is a ritual but the results will be worth it!

This Korean skincare routine is cult for a reason! Helping to boost hydration with seven simple steps that complement your existing routine, the seven-skin method is a great way to maintain happy and healthy skin this winter.

Enjoy!