Routine Overview

Korean Skincare Routine for Melasma - Barrier Support (Dry/Sensitive Skin)

This routine is built for melasma-prone skin that gets dry, reactive, or easily irritated. The strategy is simple: use a low-friction cleanser, layer calm hydration, treat uneven tone with TXA + niacinamide in a centella-support base, lock everything in with a barrier-lipid moisturizer, and finish with a tinted tone-up sunscreen to help reduce re-darkening triggers from UV and visible light.

What results to expect (realistic):

• Weeks 2-4: less tightness, fewer “reactive days,” and a more even overall look (tone appears clearer even before spots fade).
• Months 3-6: gradual softening of melasma patches with consistent sunscreen use and gentle treatment.
• Ongoing: melasma is maintenance-based. If sun protection becomes inconsistent, patches can darken again.

Products

1) Cleanser: [Aestura] atobarrier 365 Bubble Cleanser 150ml

Why it belongs: Dry/sensitive melasma routines fail when cleansing is too harsh. This is a mild, pH-balanced pump-to-foam cleanser designed to minimize friction and help keep the barrier comfortable.

• Gentle foam reduces rubbing (a common trigger for redness and irritation).
• Removes daily buildup without that “tight, squeaky” feel.
• Sets the skin up to tolerate brightening steps more consistently.

2) Toner: [Klairs] Supple Preparation Unscented Toner 180ml

Why it belongs: Hydration is your irritation-prevention tool. This unscented toner supports daily comfort so your treatment step is less likely to sting or trigger sensitivity.

• Unscented option designed for people who avoid essential oils and fragrance.
• Helps relieve tightness and improves overall “calm.”
• Makes your treatment layer spread more evenly with less irritation risk.

3) Treatment Ampoule: [Skin1004] Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Capsule Ampoule 30ml

Why it belongs: This is the melasma-support step that stays friendlier to sensitive skin. It combines TXA + niacinamide for tone support, plus centella-focused soothing so you can stay consistent without the stop-start cycle.

• Targets uneven tone and the look of dark patches with TXA + niacinamide.
• Centella-style calming support helps reduce the “reactive” feeling.
• Hydrating ampoule texture works well for dry skin without feeling greasy.

Sensitive-skin pacing (important): Start once daily for 5-7 days. If skin stays calm, use AM + PM. If you feel stinging, use only at night and apply after moisturizer (buffering).

4) Moisturizer: [Aestura] Atobarrier 365 Cream Plus 90ml

Why it belongs: A strong barrier is how you make brightening sustainable. This is the “stop the flaking” step that helps reduce reactivity, improves comfort, and keeps the routine consistent.

• Deep barrier-lipid style support for dry, easily irritated skin.
• Reduces tightness and dryness that can make pigmentation care feel harsh.
• Helps your ampoule work better by keeping skin hydrated and stable.

5) Sunscreen (AM only): [Skin1004] Madagascar Centella Tone Brightening Tone-Up Sunscreen 50ml

Why it belongs: This is the non-negotiable step for melasma. A tinted tone-up sunscreen supports daily protection (including visible light support via pigments) and helps prevent patches from re-darkening while you treat.

• Daily protection is essential to stop melasma from getting darker.
• Tone-up finish helps visually even tone immediately while supporting long-term maintenance.
• Contains calming-style ingredients so daily wear feels more comfortable.

AM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 5)

1. Cleanser: Pump 1-2 foams, cleanse gently for 20-30 seconds, rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Toner: Pat 1 layer with hands. Do 2 layers on drier areas (cheeks, around mouth).
3. Treatment Ampoule: Apply a thin, even layer. If sensitive, use only on dark-patch zones first.
4. Moisturizer: Apply a comfortable layer (do not under-apply on dry skin).
5. Sunscreen: Apply generously as the last step. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors (or sooner if sweating).

PM Routine

How to Use- (Steps 1 to 4)

1. Cleanser: Cleanse to remove sunscreen and daily buildup. Keep it gentle.
2. Toner: Pat 1-2 layers depending on dryness.
3. Treatment Ampoule: Use nightly if tolerated. If skin feels reactive, use every other night and apply after moisturizer (buffering).
4. Moisturizer: Seal with a generous layer. If very dry, apply a second thin layer to cheeks only.