If there's one skincare routine that took the world by storm and had everyone and their mother's trying it out, it's the oh-so-elaborate 11-step Korean skincare routine. And as K-beauty continues to have its moment in the sun, we'd like to turn your attention to the Korean hair care routine. Quickly making its way to the top, the elaborate hair care routine ain't for the lazy girls.

With 10-steps to completion, this one is all about scalp and hair health. If you're game for an intricate routine to provide a little TLC to your tresses, read on as we break down the much-acclaimed Korean hair care routine.

 

Step 01: Scalp scaler

Step 01: Scalp scaler

It's less threatening than it sounds, we promise! A scalp scaler is a shampoo that thoroughly cleanses your scalp, contains salicylate, and does not lather. Use this once a week before shampooing your mane to remove the dirt and grime on your scalp.

 

Step 02: Shampoo

Step 02: Shampoo

The Korean hair care routine specifies using a gentle shampoo that works for your hair type, to not just cleanse your hair, but nourish it too.

 

Step 03: Scalp massage

Step 03: Scalp massage

Scalp massagers help stimulate hair growth and improve blood circulation on the scalp. Use a scalp massager once your hair is dried to avail all the benefits, and make sure you do it in circular motions.

 

Step 04: Condition

Step 04: Condition

Interestingly, the Korean way to apply conditioner involves using it once your hair has been dried. Use a conditioner on the midsection and tips of your hair to add some extra moisture and nourishment to your strands, and then wash it off after 1-2 minutes.

 

Step 05: Hair mask

Step 05: Hair mask

Let's be real, this one's not a surprising addition. For that added layer of nourishment, TLC, and conditioning, opt for a revitalising hair mask loaded with moisturising ingredients to deal with any signs of hair damage and dryness.

 

Step 06: Apple cider vinegar rinse

Step 06: Apple cider vinegar rinse

Using an apple cider vinegar rinse is a staple in the Korean hair care routine to maintain the scalp's pH balance, restore shine, and reduce dryness. Mix a cup of apple cider vinegar with two cups of water, and rinse your hair with the mixture. After five minutes, rinse it off with cold water.

 

Step 07: Scalp scrub

Step 07: Scalp scrub

ICYMI, scalp scrubs are great for deep exfoliation and help remove any stubborn dirt and grime that may have stayed on your scalp post-shampooing and scaling. Rejuvenating your scalp with a scrub can also help improve blood circulation and promote hair growth, so add this one to your routine ASAP — but be sure to only use it once a week post-wash!

 

Step 08: Scalp and hair toners

Step 08: Scalp and hair toners

Did you know toners exist for your hair and scalp? While scalp toners soothe the scalp and get rid of dandruff while hydrating the scalp, hair toners moisturise the strands like no other and make your hair look bouncy. Pick toners with the right ingredients for your scalp and hair according to your type, or simply DIY them according to your hair needs.

 

Step 09: Serums

Step 09: Serums

Similar to scalp and hair toners, both scalp and hair serums exist and are an essential part of the K-beauty hair care routine. Scalp serums give your follicles that extra boost of nourishment for hair growth, while hair serums protect your strands from external damage, and make your mane look glossy and luscious.

 

Step 10: Overnight rinses

Step 10: Overnight rinses

We talked about an ACV rinse, but that's not where your DIY rinses end! The most popular Korean hair care rinse is the rice water rinse, and can be used overnight to wake up with a luscious looking locks the next day. And that's it! Who said Korean hair care was hard?