The 3-Second Korean Beauty Moisturizing Rule You Need To Know About

Korean skincare is everywhere and it has gained a cult following for all the right reasons! K-beauty is famed for its innovative products and game-changing ingredients and techniques. We’re talking about everything from compellingly fresh formulations to ground-breaking ingredients. And this skincare style has also made a huge impact on routines and regimes. The 10-step Korean skincare routine has been adopted globally and the new tips that keep popping up are more than welcome. One of the several popular trends is the 3-second moisturizing rule we’re exploring here.

What’s the hype about the 3-Second Moisturizing Rule?

This eyeball-grabbing rule suggests that you go straight into your skincare routine immediately after washing up, within 3 seconds. At first glance, this may seem like it’s sprouted from the imagination of an ardent skin care-lover. However, experts agree that moisturizing immediately after cleansing is better for your skin! Aside from speeding up your skin-care regimen, the three-second rule also allows products to better absorb into your face. Your skin’s main role is to serve as a barrier between your cells and the outside world. So, when you apply products, your skin essentially wants to boost that barrier. Wet or damp skin is more receptive to outside agents, which leads to maximum absorption of active ingredients.

Why does the 3-Second Moisturizing Rule work?

1) Your skin is more receptive when wet

It’s a fact that damp skin is more receptive to topical actives. This 3-second moisturizing rule helps make the most of the product. This maximizes the absorption of the moisturizer into your skin, boosting the skin barrier. Experts believe that moist, hydrated skin is more likely to absorb the topical ingredients applied to it as compared to dry skin.

2) Your skin seals in the moisture better

Moisturizers are made up of three ingredients categories: humectants, which hold onto water and stop it from evaporating; emollients, which sink into your skin and smoothes it out; and occlusives, which form a film that can seal in water. Occlusives in your moisturizer can actually help seal in the moisture into your skin better if you follow the 3-second moisturizing rule.

3) Your skin receives optimal hydration

It actually makes sense if you think about it. Your skin is squeaky clean and more receptive to the skincare products immediately after a shower. Unlike a day-old pizza that still tastes delicious, Korean skincare experts state that moisturizers deliver optimal hydration when applied within 3 seconds. In essence, adopting the 3-second moisturizing rule amplifies the amount of hydration your skin receives.

4) Keeps skin concerns at bay

It’s not new information that well-hydrated skin looks plump and youthful. When your skin is dry, it makes all the fine lines and wrinkles more visible. And while putting on a moisturizer on dry skin should make sense, in reality, the buildup of dead skin cells hampers this process.

Similarly, sensitive skin gets irritated easily and needs extra special care. So applying your moisturizer before your skin dries out even more will help to prevent dry and itchy patches.

How to follow the 3-Second Moisturizing Rule

AM Routine:

• Start in the shower and wash your face as usual.
• Lightly dab the face with your towel.
• Immediately apply the moisturizer and let your skin absorb it.

Product Recommendation:

Begin with a cleanser like the 2-in-1 lightweight, oil-based Mon Cherry Brightening Foam Cleanser that removes all traces of dirt, long-wear makeup and impurities. 

Go for the Mon Cherry Ultra Light Moisturizing Gel for your AM skincare routine. This super-light moisturizer has a unique gel-to-water texture that absorbs quickly and keeps skin fresh, hydrated and smooth.

PM Routine:

• Wash up your face with a cleanser as usual.
• Lightly dab the face with your towel.
• Immediately apply the moisturizer and let your skin absorb it.

Product Recommendation:

Begin with a cleanser, like the foaming gel-based Chialeader Shine Control Gel Face Wash that removes dirt, grime, impurities and excess oil from your skin.

For your PM routine, use the Chialeader Oil Control Moisturizer. This refreshing oil-control moisturizer gives a boost of lasting hydration and keeps your skin fresh and supple all night long.

Tip: Remember, don’t dry your face completely. It should feel damp to the touch.

If you were looking for an upgrade to your skincare routine, this one’s sure to level it up! Give it a try and see the difference.