Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Dehydrated, Tight and Flaky Skin - Normal Skin

This routine is for “normal” skin that’s acting dry because it is dehydrated and barrier-stressed. The goal is to stop tightness and flaking by replenishing water first (humectants), then reinforcing the barrier (ceramides + soothing hydrators), and protecting daily with sunscreen so the skin can actually recover.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 3-7 days: less tightness after cleansing, fewer visible flakes, skin feels more comfortable through the day.
• 2-4 weeks: smoother texture, reduced “patchy” dryness, makeup sits better, less sensitivity from dehydration.
• 6-8 weeks: stronger barrier and better hydration retention, fewer random tight/flaky episodes.

Products

1) Cleanser: [ROUNDLAB] 1025 Dokdo Cleanser 150ml

Why it’s here: Dehydrated skin gets worse when cleansing is too harsh. This cleanser is positioned to purify without over-drying, so you don’t start the routine already tight and flaky.

• Helps remove daily residue while maintaining moisture balance.
• Sets the base for hydration steps to absorb evenly.

2) Barrier Toner: [Dr.Jart+] Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner 150ml

Why it’s here: This is a serum-like toner designed to recharge a damaged barrier using ceramide NP and panthenol. It’s the “stop the tightness spiral” step.

• Supports barrier strength so skin feels less reactive and less tight.
• Moisturizes and preps skin for your serum without heaviness.

3) Hydrating Serum: [Torriden] DIVE IN Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum 50ml

Why it’s here: Dehydration is a water problem first. This serum is built around multi-weight hyaluronic acid plus soothing support ingredients, helping skin look plumper and feel less tight.

• Boosts hydration to reduce flakiness caused by dehydration.
• Lightweight texture works for normal skin without feeling greasy.

4) Moisturizer: [aestura] Atobarrier 365 Hydro Soothing Cream 60ml

Why it’s here: Hydration only “stays” when you seal it in. This gel-cream is designed to soothe and provide long-lasting moisture with barrier-supporting lipids, without being too heavy for normal skin.

• Helps reduce moisture loss so tightness and flakes come back less.
• Comfortable daily texture for normal skin that’s temporarily dry-feeling.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [Beauty Of Joseon] Relief Sun : Rice + Probiotics 50ml

Why it’s here: UV makes dehydration and barrier weakness harder to fix. This sunscreen is positioned as lightweight, non-sticky, and moisturizing enough to sit well even when skin is flaky.

• Protects barrier recovery progress from UV stress.
• Comfortable for daily use, which is the only kind that works.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse gently for 20-30 seconds with lukewarm water. Pat dry (do not rub).
2. Barrier Toner: Pat 1 layer of the Ceramidin Serum Toner into skin using hands.
3. Hydrating Serum: Apply a thin layer of Torriden DIVE IN Serum and press in gently.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a comfortable layer of Aestura Hydro Soothing Cream (a bit more on flaky zones).
5. Sunscreen: Apply Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun generously to face and neck. Reapply if outdoors.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 4)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse gently to remove sunscreen and buildup. Keep it short and non-stripping.
2. Barrier Toner: Pat in 1-2 layers depending on how tight your skin feels.
3. Hydrating Serum: Apply Torriden DIVE IN Serum (thin, even layer).
4. Moisturizer: Seal with Aestura Hydro Soothing Cream. If flaking is obvious, apply a slightly thicker layer at night.

Simple rule that saves you: If skin feels stingy or extra flaky, do not add exfoliants. Just repeat this routine consistently for 2-3 weeks.