I’ve always been a “less is more” kind of girl when it comes to skincare. Cleanser, moisturizer, SPF. Done. 

But after months of scrolling past glowing reviews of the 7-step skincare routine (and the glassy, poreless skin that comes with it), I finally caved.

Could this K-beauty-inspired regimen really be that life-changing? I decided to find out.

What Is the 7-Step Skincare Routine, Anyway?

It’s a multi-layered routine born from Korean skincare philosophy that focuses on gentle, consistent hydration and nourishment.

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Oil Cleanser
2. Water-Based Cleanser
3. Exfoliator (2–3x/week)
4. Toner
5. Essence
6. Serum/Ampoule
7. Moisturizer

• SPF (AM only) or Sleeping Mask (PM)

It sounds intense, but spoiler: it’s also kind of therapeutic.

Day 1: “This Is… A Lot”

I started with all the enthusiasm of someone about to completely change their skin, and quickly realized that layering seven products takes time.

My first reaction? My skin felt incredibly soft and hydrated, like I’d been misted with dew. 

But the exfoliation step (I used a mild BHA) gave me a slight tingle, not painful, but noticeable.

Day 3: The Glow Is Real

By day 3, I noticed a difference: my skin looked plumper, smoother, and more balanced, especially in the mornings.

No dry patches, no tightness after washing, just that juicy, well-fed feeling. The layering was starting to feel more intuitive too.

Day 5: Minor Breakouts (But Nothing Major)

Around day 5, I had a couple of small breakouts on my chin. I almost blamed the routine, but then remembered I’d added a new serum mid-week (rookie mistake).

After skipping exfoliation that night and sticking to calming products, my skin recovered quickly.

Lesson learned: introduce one new product at a time, even in a 7-step routine.

Day 7: I Didn’t Want to Stop

By the end of the week, I was hooked. My complexion looked noticeably more even and hydrated. The 7-step routine turned into a form of self-care I didn’t know I needed.

Did it take longer than my old routine? Yes.

Did it feel a little “extra”? Definitely.

Was it worth it? Absolutely.

My Personal 7-Step MVPs

• Heimish All Clean Balm – dreamy oil cleanser that melts off everything
• Krave Beauty Matcha Hemp Hydrating Cleanser – gentle, refreshing, non-stripping
• COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – exfoliates without irritating
• Etude SoonJung Toner – calming and ultra-light
• Missha Time Revolution Essence – hydration bomb
• Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum – brightens like magic
• Laneige Water Bank Moisturizer – locks it all in with a silky finish

✨ Final Thoughts: Should You Try It?

The 7-step routine isn’t for everyone, especially if you’re short on time or have sensitive skin that reacts to too many layers. 

But if you love skincare and want to pamper your skin while building a routine that actually works, this method delivers.

Even if you don’t stick to it forever, trying it for a week can reconnect you with your skin, and that alone is worth it. 💗

FAQ

Q: Do I have to use 7 products every day?

No! You can customize based on your skin’s needs. Think of the 7 steps as a flexible framework, not a rulebook.

Q: Will the 7-step routine clog pores or cause breakouts?

Not if you choose non-comedogenic products and avoid over-exfoliating. It’s all about balance.

Q: Is it okay to skip steps on busy days?

100%. On lazy nights, you can pare down to 3–4 essentials. Your skin will forgive you.