It was a humid morning in Mumbai. Aman, a 33‑year‑old marketing executive, stared at his reflection. Years
of commutes, late nights and exposure to polluted air had dulled his skin. His girlfriend raved about the
K‑beauty routine that had transformed her complexion, but Aman laughed. Skin care is for women, he
thought. Yet curiosity gnawed at him, especially after reading how K‑beauty’s 10‑step routine was
conquering men’s grooming in 2025.
A quick online search taught Aman that male skin is different. Dermatologists and grooming experts
explain that men’s higher testosterone levels make their skin around 20–25 % thicker than women’s and
increase collagen density, which delays wrinkles . Thicker skin might sound like a blessing, but it comes
with drawbacks. Excess testosterone over‑stimulates sebaceous glands, so men often have more sebum
and larger pores than women . Scientific reviews note that sebum content and skin thickness are
significantly higher in men; facial wrinkles are deeper and sagging more prominent . Excess oil can also
impair the skin’s barrier and make products feel tacky, discouraging men from adopting skincare . Add
the daily irritation of shaving and you have a recipe for sensitivity . These biological facts changed
Aman’s perspective: his skin needed a different approach.
Why Korean Skin Care Fits Men
Korean skin care treats the face as an organ to be nourished, not just scrubbed clean. It champions hydration, gentle layering of products and sun protection. Charlotte Cho, co‑founder of the K‑beauty site Soko Glam, notes that the routine is a pampering session rather than a chore. That mindset appealed to Aman, who was tired of his rough, irritated skin.
Male Skin Needs Lightweight Hydration
Clyde For Men’s grooming experts explain that, although men’s skin is thicker, shaving exposes sensitive fresh skin, making it prone to irritation . They recommend lightweight gels or fresh textures that penetrate easily while delivering moisture . Gillette’s dermatologists add that oily skin still needs hydration; they advise using creams with a light texture or gel that won’t leave a greasy residue .
Addressing Oily Skin and Large Pores
Because men’s sebaceous glands can be overactive , double cleansing and regular exfoliation are essential. Bailey et al. (2012) found higher sebum levels in men at many facial sites . Korean routines respond by using an oil cleanser to dissolve oil‑based impurities and a water‑based cleanser to remove sweat and grime. A chemical exfoliator with AHA or BHA acids helps unclog pores and allows subsequent products to penetrate. This gentle yet thorough cleansing reduces breakouts without stripping the skin.
Self‑Care as a Habit
Aman learned that skin care can be relaxing. Gillette’s experts emphasise cleansing morning and night and keeping skin hydrated to combat shaving irritation . They warn that shaving removes surface skin cells, exposing sensitive layers that need soothing creams . Clyde For Men similarly stresses the importance of daily routines and sunscreen to prevent irritation, ingrown hairs and premature ageing . Consistency is more important than perfection, so even a simplified routine can yield results.
The 10‑Step Korean Skin Care Routine for Men
Armed with this knowledge, Aman decided to try the legendary 10‑step K‑beauty routine with products tailored to men. Gregory Allen’s 2025 feature in FashionBeans provides a structured routine with Amazon‑available products. Here is how each step works and why it matters to men’s skin:
1. Oil Cleanse – Dermalogica Precleanse
Men’s overactive sebaceous glands mean oil cleansers are your friend. Oil attracts oil, gently melting sunscreen, pollution and sebum without stripping the skin. Dermalogica’s Precleanse contains glycerin and dimethicone; it clears debris while nourishing all skin types. Use it morning and night, massaging in circles; this also softens stubble for a smoother shave.
2. Water Cleanser – Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
After dissolving oil, a water‑based cleanser removes sweat and water‑soluble dirt. Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O micellar water is gentle, making it ideal for sensitive or normal male skin. Apply in circular motions morning and night to ensure a clean canvas.
3. Exfoliator – Murad AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser
Thicker, oilier male skin benefits from exfoliation but requires care to avoid micro‑tears. Murad’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser uses chemical exfoliants (salicylic, lactic and glycolic acids) and jojoba beads for a balanced physical–chemical scrub. Use twice a week in the evening; focus on the T‑zone and beard area to prevent ingrown hairs and unclog pores.
4. Essence – NEOGENLAB Real Ferment Micro Essence
Essences prime the skin by delivering a shot of hydration that helps subsequent products penetrate. NEOGENLAB’s Real Ferment Micro Essence contains bifida ferment, rice ferment and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and strengthen the dermis. Pat a few drops onto the face and neck morning and night.
5. Serum – Jack Black Protein Booster Skin Serum
Serums are the heavy hitters, addressing specific concerns. Jack Black’s Protein Booster Skin Serum is loaded with peptides, green tea and omega‑3 fatty acids to hydrate and fight ageing. Choose serums based on your goals: niacinamide for large pores, vitamin C for dullness or peptides for wrinkles. Apply a small amount morning and night; men with oily skin may prefer a lightweight hyaluronic acid serum.
6. Sheet Masks – Filorga Hydra‑Filler Super Moisturising Mask
Sheet masks provide deep hydration and actives via prolonged contact. Filorga’s Hydra‑Filler mask uses hyaluronic acid and aloe vera to plump skin. Use twice a week after cleansing; relax for 20 minutes and pat in leftover essence. This is also a great post‑shave treat to calm irritation.
7. Eye Cream – Peter Thomas Roth Instant FIRMx Eye Tightener
Men’s periorbital skin can appear puffy or wrinkled after nights of work or partying. Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant FIRMx uses peptides and Eyeliss complex to tighten and smooth. Gently tap a small amount around the orbital bone morning and night using the ring finger – never rub!
8. Emulsion – The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Moisturising Emulsion
An emulsion is a lightweight moisturiser that absorbs quickly, making it perfect for men in humid climates like India. The Face Shop’s Rice Ceramide Emulsion binds moisture with rice extract and ceramides. Pat into the face and neck morning and night; its small molecules penetrate deeper than heavy creams.
9. Moisturiser – La Roche‑Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
Moisturisers lock in all the previous layers and supply additional actives. La Roche‑Posay’s Double Repair
Moisturizer uses ceramide‑3, niacinamide and prebiotic thermal water to hydrate and restore. Apply
morning and night , choose the gel‑cream texture for oily skin or a richer cream if your skin is drier.
10. SPF – EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen SPF 46
Sunscreen is non‑negotiable. Even though thicker male skin ages slower, UV damage still leads to
pigmentation, dehydration and sagging. EltaMD’s UV Clear contains zinc oxide, niacinamide and hyaluronic
acid, it protects against UVA/UVB and helps reduce blemishes. Apply generously every morning and reapply
during the day. In tropical climates like Mumbai and other state of India and other country look for non‑greasy, sweat‑resistant formulas.
A Simplified Routine for Busy Men
Not everyone can commit to a 10‑step ritual every day. K‑beauty experts suggest a streamlined 5‑step
routine for mornings or busy weeks:
- Double Cleanse – Use an oil cleanser followed by a gentle water cleanser to remove dirt and sebum.
This is crucial for city dwellers exposed to pollution. - Exfoliate – Twice a week, use a BHA‑rich exfoliant like salicylic acid to dissolve oil and unclog pores.
- Essence – Hydrate the skin so it can absorb serums better.
- Serum – Apply a targeted treatment based on your concerns, such as niacinamide for pores or vitamin C for brightness.
- SPF Moisturiser – Combine hydration and sun protection with a moisturiser containing SPF.
This condensed routine still leverages K‑beauty principles—hydration, gentle care and protection—but
takes less time and uses fewer products.
Tips for Success: Making K‑Beauty Work for You
Listen to your skin : The 10‑step routine is a guide, not a mandate. Skip steps if your skin feels
congested or irritated, and add them back gradually. Men may need to exfoliate less frequently if
shaving daily.
Choose lightweight textures : Men’s thicker skin needs hydration without heaviness. Opt for gel or
water‑based products and creams labelled non‑comedogenic.
Target your concerns : Invest in serums and masks that address your specific issues – niacinamide
for large pores, vitamin C for pigmentation, peptide complexes for anti‑ageing. Snail mucin and
fermented extracts, popular in 2025, provide hydration and healing without heaviness.
Care after shaving : Shaving exfoliates the top layer of skin and can cause irritation . Always
follow with a soothing, alcohol‑free toner or essence and a hydrating moisturiser. Sheet masks with
aloe and hyaluronic acid are great post‑shave treatments.
Protect from the sun : Even though men’s skin ages more slowly due to higher collagen , UV
damage still leads to pigmentation and sagging. Use broad‑spectrum SPF daily and reapply,
especially in sunny climates like India.
Stay consistent : Results come from regular use . Think of your routine as time for yourself -an
investment in confidence and wellbeing. As Aman discovered, a few minutes twice a day can
transform the way you look and feel.
Trending K‑Beauty Ingredients: Snail Mucin, Green Tea and Ginseng
Aman’s curiosity didn’t stop at the basic steps. As he watched YouTube reviews and read skincare forums, he
kept seeing three ingredients praised by Korean dermatologists: snail mucin, green tea and ginseng.
Their scientific backing surprised him – and might convince you, too.
Snail mucin – hydration and healing
At first the idea of putting snail secretions on his face felt gimmicky, but the research behind it is
compelling. Snail mucin is rich in hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid and glycoproteins that act as humectants:
they draw water into the skin and help it stay there . Studies note that regular use increases skin
elasticity and firmness and can reduce dullness, promoting a smoother, glowing complexion . Snail
mucin’s hydration also has practical benefits for men: hydration helps soothe skin after shaving and can
calm inflammatory conditions like eczema because the mucin’s antimicrobial and anti‑inflammatory
properties keep bacteria at bay . For someone like Aman, who often battled razor burn, a snail‑mucin
serum became a secret weapon.
What really surprised him was snail mucin’s ability to assist the skin’s natural repair processes. The secretion
contains allantoin and glycolic acid, which stimulate tissue regeneration and encourage the growth of new
cells . This makes snail mucin popular for fading acne scars or calming nicked skin after shaving. Some
researchers even report that snail mucin may increase collagen production, helping reduce fine lines and
wrinkles . Because snail mucin is lightweight, it layers easily under other products – ideal for men who
dislike heavy creams. A word of caution: although side effects are rare, dermatologists recommend patch
testing any snail mucin product before slathering it on because some people may be allergic or sensitive
Green tea catechins – antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory defense
Aman had always enjoyed green tea, but he never considered applying it to his skin. Green tea catechins
(GTCs) are a group of flavanol antioxidants – like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) – derived from
Camellia sinensis leaves. Research shows that the skin is constantly bombarded by ultraviolet radiation and
pollutants, which generate free radicals and accelerate ageing. GTCs neutralise these free radicals,
mitigating cellular damage and supporting the skin’s repair mechanisms . They also exhibit
anti‑carcinogenic effects by inhibiting signalling pathways involved in tumour promotion and exert
anti‑inflammatory action by modulating inflammatory pathways . These anti‑inflammatory effects
could alleviate chronic conditions like acne, rosacea or psoriasis . For men who frequently get ingrown
hairs or breakouts around the beard, this is welcome news.
GTCs offer more than antioxidant protection. Studies summarised in a 2024 review highlight that catechins
can enhance wound healing by stimulating angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), support DNA
repair in dermal fibroblasts and screen out UV light, providing a form of photoprotection . Researchers
also note that GTCs can regulate gene expression related to cell proliferation and differentiation, leading to
improved collagen production and potentially delaying skin ageing . Some K‑beauty brands now
incorporate concentrated green‑tea extracts into serums and creams. Aman found that a green‑tea sheet
mask calmed his post‑workout redness and left his skin feeling refreshed rather than greasy – proof that
this “super‑ingredient” isn’t just hype.
Ginseng – the timeless root of youth
Panax ginseng has been consumed for centuries to boost vitality, but modern science confirms it also
benefits the skin. Ginseng contains three main active components – ginsenosides, ginseng
polysaccharides and gintonin – each with distinctive effects. Ginsenosides provide non‑receptor‑mediated
antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory actions , while polysaccharides support the immune system and
gintonin contains lysophosphatidic acids that can influence cell signalling . Cosmetic scientists have
harnessed these properties by adding ginseng extract to toners and moisturisers for anti‑ageing and
treatment of skin disorders
Ginseng extract has earned its reputation as a multi‑tasker. It increases the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes and inhibits the formation of reactive oxygen species, effectively boosting the skin’s defence against oxidative stress . These actions lead to increased collagen content and reduced wrinkles, while also protecting keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts from UV damage and inhibiting melanin production for a brightening effect . Some studies report that ginseng extract prolongs the anagen phase of hair follicles and accelerates wound healing , explaining why ginseng appears in both skincare and hair‑care products. Aman began incorporating a ginseng‑infused moisturiser into his night routine and noticed his skin looked plumper and more even-toned over time. If you’re interested in trying this K‑beauty favourite, look for products listing ginseng root extract near the top of the ingredient list and be aware that they may have a subtle herbal scent.
Customize Your Routine for Your Skin Type
K‑beauty provides a blueprint, but every man’s skin is unique. Understanding your skin type helps you choose products and adjust steps accordingly.
Oily or acne‑prone skin
If your face becomes shiny by midday and you experience frequent breakouts, your skin likely produces
excess sebum. Scientific reviews show that men have significantly higher sebum levels and larger pores
than women , which can lead to congestion. Adopt double cleansing – an oil cleanser followed by a
gentle water cleanser – to dissolve oil and remove pollutants. Use a BHA‑based exfoliator twice a week to
unclog pores and prevent ingrown hairs. Lightweight, non‑comedogenic serums such as niacinamide or
green‑tea extracts help regulate sebum and calm inflammation. Finish with an oil‑controlling moisturiser;
avoid skipping hydration entirely, because well‑hydrated skin actually balances oil production
Dry or dehydrated skin
Men living in air‑conditioned offices or colder climates may experience dryness. If your skin feels tight or f laky after washing, focus on hydration and barrier repair. Snail mucin is an excellent humectant, drawing water into the skin and increasing elasticity . Layer hydrating essences and choose moisturisers rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid to trap moisture. Ginseng and green‑tea serums also support hydration by reducing oxidative stress and promoting collagen . Avoid over‑exfoliating; once a week is sufficient.
Combination skin
Combination skin – oily in the T‑zone and dry on the cheeks – requires a balanced approach. Use a gentle
gel cleanser in the morning and an oil cleanser at night to remove sunscreen. Apply a lightweight essence
or serum all over, then use different moisturisers on different areas: a gel or emulsion on the forehead and
nose, and a richer cream on drier cheeks. Exfoliate the T‑zone with BHA but use AHA on drier areas.
Sensitive or eczema‑prone skin
If your skin stings easily or develops red patches after shaving or weather changes, you may have sensitive
skin. Look for fragrance‑free, alcohol‑free formulas and avoid over‑exfoliation. Ingredients like snail mucin
and green tea are gentle; snail mucin’s hydration and anti‑inflammatory properties may help calm eczema
symptoms , while catechins reduce oxidative stress and inflammation . Always patch test new
products – especially those containing novel extracts – on a small area before applying to your whole face
. For severe eczema or persistent irritation, consult a dermatologist.
These personalised adjustments help you enjoy the benefits of Korean skin care without overloading your
skin. Remember, it’s better to start with a few products and pay attention to how your skin responds than to
blindly follow every trend. A thoughtful routine will not only improve your skin’s health but also make the
ritual enjoyable – a moment of calm in a busy day.
Conclusion: A Journey Towards Healthy, Confident Skin
Aman’s story mirrors a growing global trend: more men are embracing Korean skin care as a pathway to
healthier, younger‑looking skin. By understanding the biological differences -thicker skin, higher sebum,
shaving‑related sensitivity – and following a routine that emphasises hydration, gentle cleansing and sun
protection, men can reap the benefits of K‑beauty. Whether you commit to the 10‑step routine or opt for a
simplified version, the key is to start and stay consistent.
Real products make it easier. The Dermalogica Precleanse, Bioderma Sensibio H2O, Murad Exfoliating Cleanser, NEOGENLAB Essence, Jack Black Serum, Filorga Sheet Mask, Peter Thomas Roth Eye Cream, The Face Shop Emulsion, La Roche‑Posay Moisturizer and EltaMD UV Clear are all trusted, Amazon‑available options. Our affiliate links connect you directly to these products, ensuring authenticity while supporting our work at no extra cost.
Aman looked into the mirror weeks later and saw smoother, brighter skin. The ritual that once seemed indulgent had become a cherished part of his day. You, too, can embark on this journey. Embrace self‑care, tailor the routine to your needs, and let Korean skin care help you look and feel your best.