Cover The “skip-care” Korean beauty trend could be saving you hassle and time if done correctly (Photo: Getty Images()
The “skip-care” Korean beauty trend could be saving you hassle and time if done correctly (Photo: Getty Images()
1 / 1
Koreans are jumping on the “skip-care” train and getting savvy with their skin–and you should too
Gone are the days when a multiple-step skincare routine was the holy grail of beauty. Enter “skip-care”, the Korean beauty trend that’s giving bathroom shelves (and purses) a much-needed breather. Think of it as the Marie Kondo approach to skincare–if it doesn't spark joy or actual results, it’s time to bid farewell.
Read more: From KonMari to Kurashi: why the tidying queen decided to embrace the chaos
Skip-care isn’t about skiving off your skincare routine entirely–rather, it’s about “skinimalism”, which involves being clever with your product choices and ditching the unnecessary steps. It’s the antithesis of the famous 10-step Korean skincare regime that had us all juggling serums and essences like circus performers.
The movement gained serious traction when Moon Embracing the Sun actress Kim So-hyun revealed her stripped-back routine, which includes staying hydrated, putting moisture back in her skin, and always applying sunscreen before going out. K-pop idol and Twice leader Jihyo also once shared that she only uses three steps (not counting her makeup removal process) as she feels that “too much product is unnecessary”, pointing towards the trend of pared-back beauty rituals.
Above Korean actress Kim So-hyun is a big believer of “skip-care” or “skinimalism” (Photo: Instagram/@ wow_kimsohyun)
Korean actress Kim So-hyun is a big believer of “skip-care” or “skinimalism” (Photo: Instagram/@ wow_kimsohyun)
1 / 1
We’ve all been there, staring at our overflowing skincare drawer, wondering if we really need that snail mucus essence we impulse-bought at 2am.
Skip-care can save you time so you could be catching those extra z’s or enjoying the luxury of having a proper breakfast in the mornings. It’s also budget-friendly as hoarding fewer products means more moolah in your pocket (simple math!) and skin-friendly as less product layering may reduce the risk of irritation and adverse reactions.
See also: From diet to skincare: Proven ways to soothe and manage eczema flare-ups
Let’s not forget that it’s environmentally conscious because fewer products mean less packaging which equals a happier planet. Finally, your bathroom cabinet or vanity top will thank you for the extra breathing room.
Above “Skip-care” isn’t about being lazy with your skin–it’s about being smart (Photo: Getty Images)
“Skip-care” isn’t about being lazy with your skin–it’s about being smart (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
Here’s what a proper skip-care routine might look like:
- A hardworking cleanser: Look for a cleanser that removes both makeup and daily grime. The CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser is brilliant for this–no need for double cleansing.
- Multi-tasking moisturiser: Opt for one with built-in SPF for daytime so go for something that moisturises, treats blemishes, and protects from the sun.
- Treatment serum: Choose one (yes, just one!) that targets your main concern. If hydration and anti-ageing are what you’re after, something with hyaluronic acid and peptides will do the trick.
- Night cream: Something restorative that works while you sleep. The Inkey List’s Bakuchiol is a fantastic retinol alternative that doesn’t require additional products.
Above By ditching lengthy beautiful rituals and only using what works for you, you could achieve more by doing less (Photo: Getty Images)
By ditching lengthy beautiful rituals and only using what works for you, you could achieve more by doing less (Photo: Getty Images)
1 / 1
Transitioning to skip-care doesn’t mean binning everything overnight. You’ll need to audit your current routine and ask yourself, “Which products actually make a difference?” and “What’s the one product that makes my skin sing?”, all while narrowing down to a few hero products that serve multiple purposes and deliver results, and more importantly, you need to listen to your skin.
Don’t miss: Beauty, skincare and haircare routines of Olympic athletes, from Simone Biles to Michael Phelps
While skip-care is brilliant for many, it might not be your cup of tea if you have specific skin conditions requiring targeted treatment, your skin thrives on a more elaborate routine, or you genuinely enjoy the ritual of a longer skincare regime.
It isn’t about being lazy with your skin–it’s about being smart. It’s choosing quality over quantity, results over trends, and simplicity over complexity. Remember, the skin naturally maintains itself; sometimes, less intervention allows it to function at its best.
Best of Tatler Asia video highlights
Featured videos from around Tatler Asia: Get exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the interviews we do, the events we attend, the shoots we produce, and the incredibly important people who are part of our community
Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
