Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Dark Circles and Puffiness (Universal)

This routine is built to improve the look of tired under-eyes without overloading the skin. It focuses on what skincare can realistically help: hydration (to reduce dehydration shadowing and crepey texture), brightening support for dull-looking circles, and puffiness care using caffeine + a cooling application method. If your dark circles are mainly genetic, structural (deep tear trough), allergy-related, or from sleep issues, skincare can improve the look but rarely “erases” them completely.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 7-14 days: under-eye looks more hydrated and smoother, mild improvement in morning puffiness for many.
• 3-6 weeks: more consistent “less tired” look, improved under-eye texture and brightness with daily use.
• 8-12 weeks: gradual visible improvement in dullness and shadowing (best when sunscreen is used daily and rubbing is avoided).

The 5 Products (Luxiface catalogue)

1) Cleanser: [Etude House] SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser 250ml

Why it fits: A gentle low-pH cleanser helps keep the barrier stable. When the barrier is calm, the under-eye area looks less stressed and makeup sits better.

• Removes sunscreen and daily buildup without harsh stripping.
• Helps reduce the tight, dry feel that exaggerates shadows and fine lines.
• Comfort-first cleansing supports consistent daily routines.

2) Toner: [Anua] Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner 250ml

Why it matters: Hydration + calming reduces the look of redness and irritation that can make the eye area appear darker and more fatigued.

• Light hydration that suits most skin types (not heavy, not greasy).
• Helps calm and support a healthier-looking skin tone.
• Preps skin so eye cream spreads evenly and feels more comfortable.

3) Eye Cream: [Laneige] Water Bank Blue Hyaluronic Eye Cream 25ml

Why it targets both dark circles and puffiness: This eye cream is positioned to visibly brighten and improve puffiness, and it includes niacinamide + caffeine with a cooling effect.

• Hydrates deeply so under-eye looks smoother and less crepey.
• Brightening support helps reduce dull-looking circles over time.
• Caffeine + cooling helps improve the look of morning puffiness.

Eye-area rule: Use only along the orbital bone. Never rub. Tap gently.

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

Why it is essential: A stable barrier makes the face look less tired overall, and keeps hydration in place so the under-eye area looks smoother.

• Lightweight, fast-absorbing hydration that suits most skin types.
• Barrier-lipid support helps reduce irritation and dryness.
• Comfortable daily texture, especially when layering near the eye area.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [Etude House] Soonjung Director's Mineral Filter Sun Cream 50ml

Why it is non-negotiable: UV worsens pigmentation and dullness, including around the eyes. A mineral sunscreen is often easier to wear around the eye area without stinging.

• Helps prevent dark circles from looking darker over time (pigment-related cases).
• Mineral filters are often more eye-area friendly.
• Daily UV protection protects the progress from the routine.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse 30-45 seconds with lukewarm water. Rinse well.
2. Toner: Apply 1 light layer by pressing into skin (no rubbing).
3. Eye Cream: Rice-grain amount per eye. Tap gently along orbital bone. Optional: keep the eye cream in the fridge for extra de-puff effect.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a light, even layer to face and neck.
5. Sunscreen: Apply generously to face and neck. Apply carefully around eyes and avoid getting it into eyes.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse thoroughly to remove sunscreen and buildup.
2. Toner: Apply 1 layer (2 thin layers if you feel dry).
3. Eye Cream: Same as AM. Tap gently. No dragging the skin.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a slightly richer layer than AM if your skin feels dry.
5. Puffiness tip: 20-30 seconds of a cool press (not aggressive massage) can help morning puffiness look reduced.