The 7 Skin Method: What to Know About this Buzzy K-Beauty Skincare Trend

What is the 7 skin method?

“The seven skin method is a process of layering your toner or essence during your skincare routine that originated in Korea,” explains Los Angeles-based celebrity esthetician Joshua Ross. And while the technique officially asks for seven thin layers of toner or essence, you can do as few as three—the key is just to use a gentle toner containing hydrating ingredients. “The seven skin method is all about hydration, so you want to make sure that you’re not using any toners that are drying or exfoliating, i.e. those with acids,” he adds, “The exception being hyaluronic acid, which does not cause exfoliation, but is a humectant which will help the moisture bind to the skin.” 

The benefits of using the 7 skin method

This practice may be a few extra steps than you’re used to, but when done correctly, it pays off in glowing, hydrated skin. “The main benefits are being able to introduce multiple layers of hydration to help plump and hydrate the skin,” explains Ross. And although it’s good practice for dry skin especially, it can be done on all skin types, including oily and sensitive skin. And because wet skin is more absorbent, each layer of toner helps facilitate the absorption of the next—as well as your subsequent products as well. It’s skincare helping skincare!

How to do the 7 skin method

1. Start with clean skin. Use your favorite cleanser (Ross recommends double-cleansing), then lightly pat skin dry. 

2. Quickly apply the first layer. While skin is still a bit damp, apply your first layer of toner. You only need a dime-sized amount, and you can use either a cotton pad or your hands. “Make sure that you add your first layer of toner or essence while the skin is still moist,” explains Ross. “This will allow the product to penetrate deeper into the skin.”

3. Continue with the next six layers. “Make sure that you’re waiting for 5-10 seconds between applications to allow those toners to begin to enter the skin,” says Ross, who adds that “you don’t want to do it all at the same time or the product will evaporate.”

4. Move onto the rest of your skincare routine. If using other essences or serums before your moisturizer, “Make sure that when layering you start with the lightest viscosity and weight, building up to your richer toners,” advises Ross.

The best toners to try for the 7 skin method

• COSRX Hydrium Watery Toner

Talk about hydration: This toner has a whopping six types of hyaluronic acid, as well as vitamin B5 (aka panthenol) for additional moisturizing effects.

• PRIMERA Miracle Seed Essence

The miracle seed here? Lotus seeds which are rich in amino acids and help maintain moisture. Plus, it’s alcohol-free (great for sensitive skin types).

• BIOEFFECT EGF Essence

Made with Icelandic water and epidermal growth factor (sourced from barley), a protein naturally found in our skin, to stimulate collagen production, it’s the perfect addition to any anti-aging routine, but great for any skin type.

• LANEIGE Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer

The formula contains antioxidant-rich white tea and amino acids, and the consistency falls between an essence and a face lotion. It’s so nourishing, in fact, you might not need a moisturizer when you finish your layers. 

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