Routine Overview

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

This routine is designed for sensitive skin that feels tight, looks flaky, and reacts easily because the moisture barrier is stressed. The strategy is simple: cleanse without stripping, flood the skin with gentle barrier-supporting hydration (ceramides + panthenol style support), seal it in with a barrier cream, and protect daily with a comfortable sunscreen so the skin can recover instead of staying irritated.

What results to expect (realistic):

• 3-7 days: less stinging/tightness after cleansing, reduced visible flaking, skin feels calmer and more comfortable.
• 2-4 weeks: smoother texture, fewer dry patches, less sensitivity triggered by “normal” products and weather changes.
• 6-8 weeks: stronger barrier and better moisture retention, fewer flare-ups of tightness and flaking.

Products

1) Cleanser: [aestura] Atobarrier 365 Bubble Cleanser 150ml

Why it fits: Sensitive dehydrated skin cannot handle harsh cleansing. This is a low-stress, barrier-friendly cleanser choice so you do not start the routine already tight and irritated.

• Helps remove impurities and excess oil without the “squeaky clean” feeling.
• Barrier-supporting ingredients help reduce post-wash tightness.
• Gentle daily cleansing that does not aggravate sensitive, flaky skin.

2) Toner: [Illiyoon] Ceramide Ato Gentle Skin Toner 250ml

Why it fits: This is a straightforward, sensitive-skin hydration step that supports dryness and barrier weakness with a “keep it calm” approach.

• Helps rehydrate quickly after cleansing (when tightness usually starts).
• Barrier support reduces the likelihood of reactive redness and discomfort.
• Ideal for sensitive skin that needs hydration without aggressive actives.

3) Essence: [Torriden] Solid In Ceramide All Day Essence 100ml

Why it fits: This is the “repair and retain” step. Ceramides + panthenol-type support help fill in the weak points of a dehydrated barrier so water stays in the skin instead of evaporating.

• Helps strengthen the moisture barrier and reduce dehydration-driven flaking.
• Lightweight, milky texture layers well under a cream without heaviness.
• Great for sensitive skin when you want comfort, not irritation.

4) Moisturizer: [haruharuwonder] Black Rice 5 Ceramide Barrier Moisturizing Cream 50ml

Why it fits: Sensitive, flaky skin needs a real barrier cream to seal hydration and reduce moisture loss. This cream is ceramide-focused, so it is aligned with barrier recovery.

• Deep moisture helps soften flaky patches and reduce rough texture.
• Barrier reinforcement helps skin feel less reactive over time.
• Gives a comfortable finish that supports healing and resilience.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [Beplain] Sunmuse Moisture Sunscreen 50ml

Why it fits: UV makes sensitivity and barrier stress harder to fix. This sunscreen is positioned as lightweight but hydrating, which matters when your skin is already tight and flaky.

• Daily UV protection prevents further barrier stress and inflammation.
• Hydrating finish helps comfort dry-feeling sensitive skin.
• Works as the final “seal” in the morning routine.

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. Toner: Apply 1 layer with hands and press into skin. If very tight, apply a second thin layer.
3. Essence: Apply a thin, even layer and pat lightly until absorbed.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a comfortable layer. Use a little extra only on flaky patches.
5. Sunscreen: Apply generously to face and neck. Reapply if outdoors, sweating, or after wiping the face.

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 4)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse gently to remove sunscreen and daily buildup. Keep it short and non-stripping.
2. Toner: 1-2 thin layers depending on tightness.
3. Essence: Apply a thin layer and press in gently.
4. Moisturizer: Seal with the cream. If skin is flaky, apply slightly more only on those areas.

Sensitive-skin rule (worth following): If your skin stings, burns, or feels hot, do not add exfoliants or strong actives. Stick to this routine consistently for 2-3 weeks to stabilize the barrier first.