Korean beauty products are taking their place on store shelves around the world, and their lovely packaging is almost impossible to resist. But it’s not just skincare products that give Korean women their beautiful glowing skin, it’s the beauty regimen they’re following.

Korean skincare routines consist of 10 stepsone of which is the 3-second moisturizing rule that requires you to apply a moisturizer immediately after washing your face, for example within 3 seconds.

We were surprised to discover that towel drying can sabotage your efforts if you’re trying to get your best skin. And we did some digging to find out what happens to your skin when you jump right into your skincare routine after cleansing your face.

Helps the skin to better absorb the product

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin

If you apply their products to your skin immediately after washing your face, your skin will get the most out of these products.

Because the outer layer of your skin acts like a shield and acts as a barrier between living cells and the environment, it resists skincare ingredients that try to get through it.

But when your skin is wet, it’s easier to absorb the active ingredients in your serums or moisturizers.

light up your skin

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin
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As counterintuitive as it sounds, your skin may feel even thirstier immediately after washing. This is because water quickly evaporates from the skin, taking many of the skin’s essential oils with it.

As a result, you can end up with dull and dehydrated skin. The faster you apply moisturizer, the better chance you have of getting the necessary hydration and making your skin look bright and vibrant.

Makes your skin look younger

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin
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Well-hydrated skin looks plump and youthful, and this isn’t just an optical illusion. When your skin is dry, all the fine lines and wrinkles are more visible.

Although creams and serums should soften the skin, and applying them to dry skin may seem logical, they won’t actually allow the skin to reap the full benefits.

Since dry skin has a buildup of dead skin cells, this will prevent the moisturizer from penetrating.

Keeps your skin healthier

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin
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Applying moisturizer immediately after washing your face helps keep your skin balanced. When your skin is very dry, glands below the surface start to produce more sebum to counteract the dryness, which can lead to acne.

Protect your skin from sun damage

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin
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Korean women know how to protect their skin from harmful UV rays, and applying moisturizer right after cleansing is an essential step.

The sun can dry out your skin, making it wrinkled and saggy, and since many face creams contain SPF, your skin will get the double benefit of hydration.

Soothe sensitive skin

What is the 3 second rule that Korean women rely on and how it can transform your skin
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Sensitive skin is easily irritated and requires extra special care. Applying the cream before the skin dries out further will help prevent dry, itchy patches.

Medical experts recommend washing your face a maximum of twice a day to avoid skin irritation.

Have you ever tried to apply your moisturizer on damp skin? What is your daily skincare routine?