If you have not been around skincare for long, you are probably wondering, what is this famous “7-skin method.”
Originating from Korea, this technique has taken the beauty world by storm for its ability to deliver healthy, hydrated, and radiant skin.
But what is it exactly, and why should you consider adding it to your routine? Let’s explore.
Introduction to the 7-Skin Method
The 7-skin method is a Korean skincare technique that involves applying toner or an essence in seven consecutive layers. Despite its name, “skin” in Korean skincare actually refers to toners. The idea is to layer lightweight hydrating products to deeply nourish the skin, leaving it plump, radiant, and glowing.
What Makes the 7-Skin Method Unique?
Unlike other skincare methods that focus on layering multiple types of products, the 7-skin method specifically targets hydration by layering only toners. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Layering Hydration: By layering lightweight, hydrating toners, your skin absorbs moisture more effectively, preventing water loss and boosting hydration levels.
- Gentle Application: The process encourages gentle patting instead of rubbing, reducing irritation and promoting healthy blood flow.
- Customizable: You can tailor the number of layers and the type of toner used based on your skin’s needs.
Benefits of the 7-Skin Method
Why should you consider trying the 7-skin method? Here are the key benefits:
a. Deep Hydration
Each layer of toner penetrates deeper into the skin, providing intense hydration and locking in moisture. This is particularly beneficial for dry or dehydrated skin.
b. Improved Skin Texture
Over time, consistent hydration helps to smooth out rough textures, minimize the appearance of pores, and create a soft, supple feel.
c. Radiant Glow
By layering hydrating toners, your skin will look more radiant and glowing due to improved hydration and blood flow.
d. Enhanced Skincare Routine
The 7-skin method preps the skin effectively, making it more receptive to other products like serums and moisturizers.
Choosing the Right Toner
Selecting the right toner is crucial to achieving the desired results. Here’s what to keep in mind:
a. Hydrating Ingredients
Look for toners with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, or panthenol.
b. Gentle Formulation
Avoid toners with alcohol or astringents, as they can be drying. Opt for gentle, soothing formulations.
c. Lightweight Texture
A lightweight, water-like consistency is ideal for easy layering without feeling heavy or sticky.
d. Skin Type
- Oily Skin: Go for lightweight, balancing toners.
- Dry Skin: Opt for deeply hydrating toners with ingredients like ceramides.
- Sensitive Skin: Choose soothing formulations with minimal fragrances.
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Best Korean Toner For Oily Skin
When using the 7-skin method for oily skin, it’s essential to select a toner that hydrates without adding excessive oiliness or heaviness. A good Korean toner for this purpose will be lightweight, deeply hydrating, and balancing. Here’s a popular choice that fits these criteria perfectly.
Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
Benefits:
- Deep Hydration: Despite being lightweight, this toner offers deep hydration, thanks to its rich, essence-like texture which is perfect for layering.
- Calms and Balances: Formulated with a pH level close to that of the skin, it helps balance and calm oily skin, reducing irritation and redness.
- Fast Absorption: The toner absorbs quickly, making it ideal for multiple layers without feeling sticky or greasy.
- Oil Control: Regular use can help manage sebum production, maintaining a matte finish.
- Fragrance-Free: This unscented version is great for sensitive skin as it avoids potential irritants found in fragrances.
Key Ingredients:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its ability to retain moisture, it helps keep the skin hydrated without producing extra oil.
- Centella Asiatica Extract: This ingredient is known for its healing properties, soothing irritated skin, and bolstering the skin’s barrier.
- Beta-Glucan: A powerful humectant that aids in moisture retention and has antioxidant properties that protect skin from environmental stressors.
- Licorice Root Extract: Helps brighten the skin and improve the look of an uneven skin tone, also providing anti-inflammatory benefits.
This toner is especially suitable for the 7-skin method due to its gentle, hydrating properties and quick absorption, making it easy to layer multiple times. It’s a favorite among those with oily and sensitive skin because it enhances hydration without contributing to oiliness.
Best Korean Toner For Dry Skin
If you have dry skin, you need a toner that delivers intense hydration and helps strengthen the skin barrier. The ideal product will be rich in moisturizing ingredients and gentle enough to support multiple layers without irritation. Here’s an excellent Korean toner that meets these criteria.
Benefits:
- Intense Hydration: This toner is specifically designed to deeply hydrate the skin using minimal yet powerful ingredients, making it perfect for the 7-skin method.
- Nourishing Formula: Its essence-like consistency provides a substantial moisture boost, which helps alleviate dryness and leaves the skin plump and supple.
- Calms and Soothes: The formulation is very gentle, ideal for sensitive skin, and helps to soothe and calm dry, irritated skin.
- Simplicity and Purity: Pyunkang Yul focuses on removing unnecessary chemical additives and uses safe, gentle ingredients suitable for long-term use.
Key Ingredients:
- Milk Vetch Root Extract: This is the star ingredient, offering antioxidant benefits, anti-inflammatory properties, and major hydration without heaviness or stickiness.
- Butylene Glycol: A humectant that attracts and retains moisture, helping to maintain skin hydration throughout the layers.
This toner is excellent for dry skin because its formula prioritizes hydration without any irritating components like fragrances, dyes, or alcohol. Its texture allows for layering without feeling heavy or sticky, making it a top choice for the 7-skin method among those looking to alleviate dryness.
Best Korean Toner For Sensitive Skin
For sensitive skin the focus should be on selecting a toner that is exceptionally gentle, free from common irritants, and able to calm and soothe the skin while providing hydration. Here’s a Korean toner that is highly regarded for its effectiveness and gentleness on sensitive skin.
Etude House SoonJung pH 5.5 Relief Toner
Benefits:
- Soothing and Calming: Specially formulated for sensitive skin, this toner soothes inflamed or irritated skin effectively.
- pH Balancing: It helps maintain a healthy skin pH level of 5.5, which is crucial for sensitive skin to remain calm and less prone to irritation.
- Hydrating: Delivers lightweight hydration that penetrates deeply without causing irritation or discomfort.
- Minimal Irritants: Free from potential irritants like fragrance, artificial colors, and parabens, making it safe for reactive skin types.
Key Ingredients:
- Panthenol: A skin protectant that helps improve skin’s hydration, elasticity, and smooth appearance. It also soothes redness and inflammation.
- Madecassoside: Derived from Centella Asiatica, this ingredient heals damaged skin and helps reduce inflammation.
- Green Tea Extract: Provides soothing and antioxidant benefits, helping to protect skin from environmental stressors.
This toner’s simple yet effective formulation makes it a fantastic option for anyone with sensitive skin looking to implement the 7-skin method. It’s gentle enough to be applied in multiple layers without overwhelming the skin, ensuring that each layer contributes to calming and hydrating the skin deeply.
How to Perform the 7-Skin Method
Ready to give it a try? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Cleanse
Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup, sunscreen, and impurities. Pat your face dry.
Step 2: First Layer of Toner
Pour a small amount of toner into your palms and gently pat it onto your face and neck. Avoid rubbing; instead, press the toner into your skin.
Step 3: Second to Seventh Layers
Repeat the same process six more times. Allow each layer to absorb before applying the next. Adjust the number of layers based on your skin’s needs.
Step 4: Seal in Moisture
After completing the 7 layers, apply a moisturizer to lock in all the hydration.
Step 5: Optional Steps
- Serum: If your skin needs extra nourishment, apply a serum before moisturizing.
- Sheet Mask: For an added boost, use a hydrating sheet mask after the 7 layers.
Common Mistakes and Tips for Success
Avoid these common pitfalls for the best results:
a. Using the Wrong Toner
Stick to hydrating, lightweight toners, and avoid those with alcohol or heavy fragrances.
b. Rubbing Instead of Patting
Always pat the toner into your skin to enhance absorption and avoid irritation.
c. Applying Too Quickly
Give each layer enough time to absorb before moving on to the next.
d. Overdoing It
If seven layers feel too much for your skin, start with three or five layers and gradually increase.
e. Ignoring Your Skin Type
Listen to your skin and apply as many layers as you feel your skin needs. I usually never pass layer 5. My skin just feels too moisturized; and it feels it just does not need any more layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the 7-skin method daily? A: Yes, you can. However, if your skin is sensitive, start with fewer layers and see how your skin responds.
Q: Do I need to use the same toner for all seven layers? A: Not necessarily. You can mix different hydrating toners or essences for variety and added benefits.
Q: Will the 7-skin method make my skin oily? A: If you choose the right toner for your skin type, the method should not make your skin oily. In fact, it can help balance oil production by keeping your skin hydrated.
Q: How long should I wait between each layer? A: Wait about 30 seconds to 1 minute or until the layer feels absorbed before applying the next.
Q: Is the 7-skin method suitable for acne-prone skin? A: Yes, as long as you use a toner that is non-comedogenic, alcohol-free, and lightweight.
Q: Can I use an exfoliating toner for the 7-skin method? A: It’s best to avoid exfoliating toners for this method as they can be too harsh when layered multiple times. Stick to hydrating, soothing toners.
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The 7-skin method is a revolutionary Korean skincare technique that brings out your skin’s natural glow by deeply hydrating it. By layering lightweight toners seven times, your skin becomes plump, smooth, and radiant. It’s an effective, gentle way to nourish your skin without a complicated routine.
Try incorporating the 7-skin method into your nightly skincare routine, and let your skin thank you with a radiant, healthy glow!