Korean Anti-Aging Wisdom Uncovered: What We’re Missing Out On

The Korean philosophy of skincare is based on the idea of prevention being better than cure. They believe in treating skin concerns at the root of the cause, rather than just the symptoms. This approach is heavily focused on anti-ageing skincare, and a precautionary approach is practised with calming and nourishing that is used in skincare routines across the board.

Skin first, make-up later. Korean women are taught the importance of sunscreen from an early age, beyond just applying SPF to include staying out of direct sunlight for long periods, if possible. Visit a dermatologist not just to solve problems but also to check on the health of their skin. Lastly, they indulge in a multi-step skincare routine, which they see as a delight and a part of their wellness routine rather than a chore.

Preventative skincare in Korea begins when one starts applying sunscreen or wearing hats and clothing that protects from sun exposure at six months old. This not only prevents sunburns but also hinders sun damage that can contribute to ageing later in life. This process promotes a youthful appearance in the long run with fewer fine lines and pigmentation while helping protect the skin and mitigate day-to-day oxidative damage from pollution and the sun.

Korean women believe that humidity and moisture in the air directly impact the health of the skin. To preserve skin health, they place humidifiers in their living spaces, which can help the skin retain moisture in its barrier. When the level of humidity is higher in the air around us, there is little evaporation of moisture from the skin to the environment. However, when the air is dry, such as when spending extended periods in an air-conditioned room, water readily evaporates from the epidermis. This can lead to dry, cracked, and dehydrated skin while also leaving you more sensitive to breakouts, fine lines, and wrinkles.

Investing time and space in taking care of your skin now will ensure that you have smoother, clearer, and more bouncy skin in the future.