Why a Korean skincare routine is the answer to ‘slow beauty’

How consistency, patience and focusing on barrier repair pays off for great skin

Slow beauty has been around for many years now but with the current focus on skin minimalism – born out of our obsession with instant skin results and a reliance on often harsh actives and skin treatments and an inconsistent skincare routine – the beauty movement is now more relevant than ever. What’s more, the philosophy behind it is very similar to the Korean skincare approach. Here’s how Korean skincare can not only tap into all the benefits of slow beauty but will guarantee you healthier, happier, more glowing skincare for the long term.

What exactly is slow beauty?

In a nutshell, slow beauty emphasis quality over quantity. It’s all about skincare solutions that work for the long-term instead of a quick fix. The philosophy is grounded in using your beauty and wellness time as an opportunity for self-care and creating a calmer, clearer mindset. Slow beauty is equally about investing in products with quality ingredients that are created using sustainable methods.

How can I incorporate slow beauty into my daily routine?

Check out our top tips below…

 • Give your beauty routine time to work

Instant results and quick fixes are not sustainable in the long term plus they can often do more harm than good when it comes to treating skin. In fact, using active ingredients at high percentages to see instant results can actually leave skin sensitized and reactive and is pretty hard to reverse. Instead, let your skincare routine work long enough so that you can start to see positive results.

 • Make time for self-care

We’ve advocated for incorporating mindfulness in your beauty routine since day one here at Tonic15. For us, taking the time to really indulge and relax – ideally just 15 minutes – can help both your mind and skin to reset. It doesn’t mean you need to create a spa day for yourself. Simply focus on the sensory aspects of your products – what does it feel like and smell like and how does it apply – it will really make a difference to your skin and your mood.

 • How a product is made matters

When brands slow down they pay attention to how their products are really produced. Sustainably-made formulas and packaging is key in the slow beauty movement as are the ingredients that go into beauty products. Think natural, yet still effective plant-based extracts and oils over harsh actives. Trust us, the benefits, albeit they may be slower, will pay off on how your skin looks.

How do K-beauty products fit into a slow beauty routine?

Korean skincare is all about a consistent, preventative and barrier-strengthening approach to great skin. This really echoes the slow beauty movement’s philosophies too. More specifically, K-beauty focuses on the skin’s microbiome as well as strengthening the skin barrier. Using aggressive products can throw off both of these things, so a less-is-more approach to your skincare products and ingredients will help you see consistent results without having to stop your routine because your skin has had a reaction. 

What’s more, there’s been a strong focus on a resilient skin barrier this year simply because it creates skin that truly glows from within. Repairing the skin barrier is a cornerstorne of Korean skincare products. Likewise, as is similar to the slow beauty movment, Korean beauty has a strong emphasis on offering vegan products featuring plant-based ingredients that are sourced and packaged sustainably. Plus, aromatherapy benefits – for the skin and the mind – play a big part in K-beauty too

How do I create a slow beauty routine?

Try this Korean skincare approach below for your best skin yet.