Beauty Front Benchers
Chok-Chok skin: the ultimate K-beauty routine for deep hydration
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If the last few years were about doing everything at once—layering actives, chasing viral hacks and trying to correct every tiny concern—2026 feels like a much-needed shift towards doing what actually works for your skin. We’re moving into an era where skincare is less about trends and more about understanding what your skin truly needs. It’s becoming personal, intentional and refreshingly uncomplicated.
That means letting go of overstuffed routines as well as quick-fix promises and focusing instead on habits that support skin health over time. Consistent hydration, targeted formulas and products that respect your skin barrier are taking priority, not as shortcuts but as smarter, more sustainable choices. With that in mind, here’s a look at the skincare habits we’re taking into 2026, and why they matter now more than ever.
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“My skin has always been very dry, so a good, heavy-duty moisturiser is a non-negotiable in my routine. I’ve tried many promising formulas, but this multitasking d’you moisturiser beats almost all of them. It contains a bunch of different ceramides to fortify the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss. It feels instantly soothing and has also made my skin less prone to dryness and dehydration over time. The best part is that the texture feels super light to use and does not leave any greasy residue that’s sometimes common with richer moisturisers.”
This moisturiser is exactly what your skin needs to stay hydrated and protected. Infused with barrier-building ingredients, it helps replenish and lock in moisture while strengthening the skin’s natural defences. If you’re looking for a daily moisturiser that can tackle dryness and environmental stressors, this one’s for you.
This is one of those moisturisers that quietly becomes your most-used product. It’s fragrance-free, calming and packed with ceramides, peptides and niacinamide—basically a blanket for stressed, sensitive skin. It’s loved by the derms and your most skincare-obsessed friend.
Think of this as a comfort blanket for your skin. It’s packed with ceramides, niacinamide and calming botanicals that strengthen your skin barrier and keep it hydrated. Feels rich but never greasy—the perfect everyday moisturiser for colder months.
The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum does more than just hydrate—it calms irritated skin and strengthens the barrier over time. This lightweight yet powerful serum is infused with Vitamin B12 and niacinamide to deeply moisturise and support overall skin health. With three types of gallic acid derivatives, it delivers targeted relief for dryness and uneven texture. Whether your skin is stressed or in need of extra nourishment, this serum ensures a balanced, restorative approach.
When COSRX launched its now-iconic snail mucin essence, the internet had a collective moment—and for good reason. First, there’s the headline ingredient: 98% snail secretion filtrate (yes, really). Then, there’s the slime-like texture that makes applying it strangely satisfying. But what really caught people off guard wasn’t the snail factor—it was how nourishing it turned out to be. Packed with skin-forward hyaluronic acid, it sinks in fast, leaving skin feeling plump, bouncy and deeply hydrated. Bonus: it’s lightweight enough for summer days and delivers that dewy, glass-skin glow without feeling sticky.
This one’s a no-brainer. This viral Cosrx essence is a staple in so many routines for a reason—it hydrates, repairs and gives your skin a soft, dewy feel. The lightweight formulation is also known to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and soothe irritation. Besides, it helps enhance skin elasticity, making it a go-to for anyone dealing with dry, damaged or acne-scarred skin. Whether you're looking to smooth out rough patches or boost overall skin health, this is a product you'll want to keep on hand in multiples.
Whether you are looking for moisture retention, plumping or nourishment, this widely loved essence can do it all—and it doesn’t choose to stop there, either. By dialling up exfoliation and cell turnover, the snail mucin in this multipurpose essence helps get the upper hand on hyperpigmentation, as well.
Between sun exposure, pollution and regular shaving, skin can start to look uneven or dull. This ampoule brings things back to a calmer, brighter place. Centella soothes stressed areas, while niacinamide and madecassoside support an even toned look over time. The capsules melt in smoothly, giving a fresh, cooling feel that works well after a shower or shave.
Toners can be hit or miss, but this one’s a gentle, creamy in-between that works well for most skin types. It’s calming (thanks to chamomile), slightly brightening (with niacinamide), and hydrating enough to be used alone on oily days or layered under serums. If you like that soft, cushiony skin feel after cleansing, this helps you get there.
A cleanser that’s gentle but effective. This lightweight oil melts off makeup and sunscreen while calming the skin. Infused with Centella Asiatica, it cleans without stripping, leaving your face soft and balanced.
One habit we’re carrying into 2026 is prioritising skin barrier health and for good reason. Ingredients that protect and repair the barrier, such as ceramides, fatty acids, soothing ferments and barrier-supporting humectants, are no longer optional add-ons but essentials. When your barrier is healthy, your skin retains moisture more effectively, reacts less to external stressors and looks visibly calmer and more balanced. This shift also means learning when not to use actives. It’s about stepping back from harsh or overly exfoliating formulas and recognising when something simply doesn’t suit your skin type. Sometimes, doing less really does more.
Hydration in 2026 is all about smarter layering, not heavier routines. Instead of piling on thick creams, the focus is on lightweight, water-based formulas that absorb easily and deliver moisture where it’s needed most. Toners, essences and serums rich in glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol help build hydration gradually, without clogging pores or leaving the skin feeling greasy. When skin is properly prepped this way, makeup sits better, looks fresher and sometimes even feels optional. The goal is skin that feels comfortable and hydrated from morning to night.
Cleansing remains a crucial step, but the approach in 2026 is gentler and far more intentional. Double cleansing continues to be a staple, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. An oil-based cleanser helps dissolve buildup without unnecessary friction, followed by a mild gel or foam cleanser that cleans effectively while respecting the skin’s natural balance. What’s no longer negotiable is using formulas that leave skin feeling tight or stripped. A good cleanse should leave your skin clean, calm and comfortable, not compromised.
Rather than layering multiple actives at once, 2026 is about choosing fewer, better-performing ingredients and using them consistently. Regenerative ingredients such as PDRN, skin-repairing peptides and next-generation biotech actives are gaining attention for their ability to support skin renewal at a deeper level, without overwhelming the skin. The key is intention. Knowing what your skin needs, trusting professional guidance and sticking to a routine that works will always outperform trend-led experimentation.
Preventative skincare doesn’t mean aggressive treatments or chasing every anti-ageing trend. For those in their twenties, it’s about building strong foundations through sun protection, hydration and barrier support. In your thirties, the focus shifts to maintaining elasticity, texture and resilience, without overdoing it. SPF remains non-negotiable at every stage, supported by antioxidants and gentle treatments used consistently over time. It’s about thinking ahead without putting unnecessary pressure on your skin.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that no single routine works for everyone, or even for the same person every day. In 2026, skincare adapts to real life. Stress levels, sleep, weather, hormones and even your cycle all influence how your skin behaves. This means rotating products, adjusting hydration and knowing when to simplify rather than pushing through irritation. Learning to listen to your skin is just as important as understanding ingredients, and it’s a habit that pays off in the long run.
One habit we’re carrying into 2026 is prioritising skin barrier health and for good reason. Ingredients that protect and repair the barrier, such as ceramides, fatty acids, soothing ferments and barrier-supporting humectants, are no longer optional add-ons but essentials. When your barrier is healthy, your skin retains moisture more effectively, reacts less to external stressors and looks visibly calmer and more balanced. This shift also means learning when not to use actives. It’s about stepping back from harsh or overly exfoliating formulas and recognising when something simply doesn’t suit your skin type. Sometimes, doing less really does more.
Hydration in 2026 is all about smarter layering, not heavier routines. Instead of piling on thick creams, the focus is on lightweight, water-based formulas that absorb easily and deliver moisture where it’s needed most. Toners, essences and serums rich in glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol help build hydration gradually, without clogging pores or leaving the skin feeling greasy. When skin is properly prepped this way, makeup sits better, looks fresher and sometimes even feels optional. The goal is skin that feels comfortable and hydrated from morning to night.
Cleansing remains a crucial step, but the approach in 2026 is gentler and far more intentional. Double cleansing continues to be a staple, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. An oil-based cleanser helps dissolve buildup without unnecessary friction, followed by a mild gel or foam cleanser that cleans effectively while respecting the skin’s natural balance. What’s no longer negotiable is using formulas that leave skin feeling tight or stripped. A good cleanse should leave your skin clean, calm and comfortable, not compromised.
Rather than layering multiple actives at once, 2026 is about choosing fewer, better-performing ingredients and using them consistently. Regenerative ingredients such as PDRN, skin-repairing peptides and next-generation biotech actives are gaining attention for their ability to support skin renewal at a deeper level, without overwhelming the skin. The key is intention. Knowing what your skin needs, trusting professional guidance and sticking to a routine that works will always outperform trend-led experimentation.
Preventative skincare doesn’t mean aggressive treatments or chasing every anti-ageing trend. For those in their twenties, it’s about building strong foundations through sun protection, hydration and barrier support. In your thirties, the focus shifts to maintaining elasticity, texture and resilience, without overdoing it. SPF remains non-negotiable at every stage, supported by antioxidants and gentle treatments used consistently over time. It’s about thinking ahead without putting unnecessary pressure on your skin.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that no single routine works for everyone, or even for the same person every day. In 2026, skincare adapts to real life. Stress levels, sleep, weather, hormones and even your cycle all influence how your skin behaves. This means rotating products, adjusting hydration and knowing when to simplify rather than pushing through irritation. Learning to listen to your skin is just as important as understanding ingredients, and it’s a habit that pays off in the long run.
One habit we’re carrying into 2026 is prioritising skin barrier health and for good reason. Ingredients that protect and repair the barrier, such as ceramides, fatty acids, soothing ferments and barrier-supporting humectants, are no longer optional add-ons but essentials. When your barrier is healthy, your skin retains moisture more effectively, reacts less to external stressors and looks visibly calmer and more balanced. This shift also means learning when not to use actives. It’s about stepping back from harsh or overly exfoliating formulas and recognising when something simply doesn’t suit your skin type. Sometimes, doing less really does more.
Hydration in 2026 is all about smarter layering, not heavier routines. Instead of piling on thick creams, the focus is on lightweight, water-based formulas that absorb easily and deliver moisture where it’s needed most. Toners, essences and serums rich in glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol help build hydration gradually, without clogging pores or leaving the skin feeling greasy. When skin is properly prepped this way, makeup sits better, looks fresher and sometimes even feels optional. The goal is skin that feels comfortable and hydrated from morning to night.
Cleansing remains a crucial step, but the approach in 2026 is gentler and far more intentional. Double cleansing continues to be a staple, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. An oil-based cleanser helps dissolve buildup without unnecessary friction, followed by a mild gel or foam cleanser that cleans effectively while respecting the skin’s natural balance. What’s no longer negotiable is using formulas that leave skin feeling tight or stripped. A good cleanse should leave your skin clean, calm and comfortable, not compromised.
Rather than layering multiple actives at once, 2026 is about choosing fewer, better-performing ingredients and using them consistently. Regenerative ingredients such as PDRN, skin-repairing peptides and next-generation biotech actives are gaining attention for their ability to support skin renewal at a deeper level, without overwhelming the skin. The key is intention. Knowing what your skin needs, trusting professional guidance and sticking to a routine that works will always outperform trend-led experimentation.
Preventative skincare doesn’t mean aggressive treatments or chasing every anti-ageing trend. For those in their twenties, it’s about building strong foundations through sun protection, hydration and barrier support. In your thirties, the focus shifts to maintaining elasticity, texture and resilience, without overdoing it. SPF remains non-negotiable at every stage, supported by antioxidants and gentle treatments used consistently over time. It’s about thinking ahead without putting unnecessary pressure on your skin.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that no single routine works for everyone, or even for the same person every day. In 2026, skincare adapts to real life. Stress levels, sleep, weather, hormones and even your cycle all influence how your skin behaves. This means rotating products, adjusting hydration and knowing when to simplify rather than pushing through irritation. Learning to listen to your skin is just as important as understanding ingredients, and it’s a habit that pays off in the long run.
One habit we’re carrying into 2026 is prioritising skin barrier health and for good reason. Ingredients that protect and repair the barrier, such as ceramides, fatty acids, soothing ferments and barrier-supporting humectants, are no longer optional add-ons but essentials. When your barrier is healthy, your skin retains moisture more effectively, reacts less to external stressors and looks visibly calmer and more balanced. This shift also means learning when not to use actives. It’s about stepping back from harsh or overly exfoliating formulas and recognising when something simply doesn’t suit your skin type. Sometimes, doing less really does more.
Hydration in 2026 is all about smarter layering, not heavier routines. Instead of piling on thick creams, the focus is on lightweight, water-based formulas that absorb easily and deliver moisture where it’s needed most. Toners, essences and serums rich in glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol help build hydration gradually, without clogging pores or leaving the skin feeling greasy. When skin is properly prepped this way, makeup sits better, looks fresher and sometimes even feels optional. The goal is skin that feels comfortable and hydrated from morning to night.
Cleansing remains a crucial step, but the approach in 2026 is gentler and far more intentional. Double cleansing continues to be a staple, especially if you wear sunscreen or makeup. An oil-based cleanser helps dissolve buildup without unnecessary friction, followed by a mild gel or foam cleanser that cleans effectively while respecting the skin’s natural balance. What’s no longer negotiable is using formulas that leave skin feeling tight or stripped. A good cleanse should leave your skin clean, calm and comfortable, not compromised.
Rather than layering multiple actives at once, 2026 is about choosing fewer, better-performing ingredients and using them consistently. Regenerative ingredients such as PDRN, skin-repairing peptides and next-generation biotech actives are gaining attention for their ability to support skin renewal at a deeper level, without overwhelming the skin. The key is intention. Knowing what your skin needs, trusting professional guidance and sticking to a routine that works will always outperform trend-led experimentation.
Preventative skincare doesn’t mean aggressive treatments or chasing every anti-ageing trend. For those in their twenties, it’s about building strong foundations through sun protection, hydration and barrier support. In your thirties, the focus shifts to maintaining elasticity, texture and resilience, without overdoing it. SPF remains non-negotiable at every stage, supported by antioxidants and gentle treatments used consistently over time. It’s about thinking ahead without putting unnecessary pressure on your skin.
Finally, it’s worth remembering that no single routine works for everyone, or even for the same person every day. In 2026, skincare adapts to real life. Stress levels, sleep, weather, hormones and even your cycle all influence how your skin behaves. This means rotating products, adjusting hydration and knowing when to simplify rather than pushing through irritation. Learning to listen to your skin is just as important as understanding ingredients, and it’s a habit that pays off in the long run.
