If you're a skincare enthusiast or simply looking to elevate your routine, you may have heard of the trend circulating in the beauty world: skin flooding. This K-beauty innovation promises unparalleled hydration with a dewy and plump complexion. But what exactly is skin flooding, and why is it creating such a buzz? Let’s dive in and discover how to hydrate like never before along with skincare products that we recommend even if you’re new to skincare to start skin flooding!

What is Skin Flooding?

Skin flooding is a skincare technique that focuses on deeply hydrating the skin. The term "flooding" might sound overwhelming, but it's not necessarily about drowning your face in water; instead, it’s about layering on multiple hydrating products in order to create a "flooded" effect of moisture. It is simple yet effective: by applying multiple layers of hydrating ingredients, you can boost your skin’s moisture levels and enhance its natural glow.

The Principle Behind Skin Flooding

In skincare, hydration is crucial because it forms the foundation of radiant healthy skin. The philosophy is based on the idea that well-hydrated skin not only looks luminous but also functions optimally, maintaining its barrier and fighting signs of ageing more effectively. It is extremely beneficial if you are looking to combat flaky, dry skin or skin that is suffering from water loss.

The Benefits of Skin Flooding

The primary benefit of this trend is enhanced hydration. The skin flooding technique can help in many ways:

• Improve Skin Texture: Hydrated skin tends to feel smoother and more supple.
• Reduce Fine Lines: Adequate moisture helps plump the skin, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
• Enhance Radiance: Well-hydrated skin often looks more glowy and healthy.

 

Achieving Skin Flooding: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Begin with a gentle cleanser to remove any impurities, sunscreen and/or makeup. A clean base is essential to ensure that all your hydrating products you apply can penetrate and do their job effectively.

Round Lab 1025 Dokdo Cleanser

Gentle Formula: It has a mild and non-irritating formula. Its gentle nature prevents stripping the natural oils from the skin while cleaning impurities.

Hydrating: The cleanser is formulated with hydrating ingredients, which helps maintain moisture balance in the skin. This can be especially beneficial for those with sensitive skin who might be adjusting to new products and need to keep their skin hydrated.

2. Apply a Hydrating Toner

Choose a hydrating toner with ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera. You can apply toner using either your hands or a cotton pad after cleansing your face. This first layer begins the hydration process and helps to prep your skin for the rest of your steps to come. 

 

COSRX Hydrium Watery Toner:

Why it’s good: This toner has a watery texture that absorbs quickly and provides excellent hydration. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps in retaining moisture in the skin, making it perfect for your skin flooding.

Non-Sticky Finish: Unlike some toners that might leave a sticky or tacky feeling, the Cosrx Hydrium Watery Toner leaves the skin feeling refreshed and hydrated without any residue. This makes it more comfortable to apply multiple layers if needed.

3. Layer on Hydrating Serums

After applying your toner, follow up with a serum. Look for serums containing hyaluronic acid or other moisture-binding agents. These serums are typically more concentrated than toners which will enhance your skin’s ability to retain moisture. Serums with a lightweight and hydrating formulation work best for skin-flooding. Here is a well-suited serum for this technique that we suggest:  

 

Numbuzin NO.3 Skin Softening Serum

Deep Hydration: The active ingredients of bifida ferment lysate and galactomyces ferment filtrate provide long-lasting hydration, barrier repair function and are a great source of antioxidants - which is essential for effectively utilizing the skin flooding method.

Soothing and Balancing: The presence of the soothing inactive ingredients like panthenol and sodium hyaluronate helps to calm the skin and maintain its moisture balance, ensuring that each layer contributes to a healthy, hydrated complexion.

4. Seal in the Goodness with a Moisturiser

Choose a rich, emollient moisturiser to lock in hydration of all the layers you’ve applied to your skin. This layer helps to create a barrier that prevents moisture loss and keeps your skin feeling soft and supple. 

Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Cream

Hydrating Ingredients:

• Green Tea Extract: Provides antioxidant benefits and helps soothe and hydrate the skin.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Attracts and retains moisture that gives support to dry or dehydrated skin.

Non-Greasy Formula:

• Its non-greasy finish ensures that it can be layered without causing a heavy or sticky feeling which makes it comfortable for acne-prone skin to use in multiple layers without causing discomfort or irritation. 

5. Optional: Use a Hydrating Face Mask

Consider using a hydrating face mask once or even twice a week if you feel your skin needs that extra boost of hydration. Sheet masks can provide intense moisture to dehydrated skin and help reinforce the benefits of your flooding routine. 

Torriden Dive In Sheet Mask

• Efficient Delivery: This sheet mask helps to deliver moisture and active ingredients to your skin. The mask’s material is designed to hold and deliver the essence effectively, overall enhancing your skin’s hydration level.

Tips for Maximising the Benefits of Skin Flooding

1. Apply Sunscreen As The Final Step of Your Morning Skincare Routine

Applying sunscreen during the day is essential for protecting your skin from UV damage, preserving the results of your skin flooding routine. By protecting your skin from UV damage, sunscreen ensures that the benefits of your hydrating and moisturising products are not undermined. Effective sun protection allows your skin to stay healthy and fully reap the benefits of your skin flooding regimen.

2. Be Consistent

Like any skincare routine, consistency is key. Incorporate the skin flooding process into your daily or nightly routine to see the best results over time.

3. Observe Your Skin

Pay attention to how your skin responds. If you notice any irritation or discomfort, it might be worth simplifying the routine or adjusting the products you’re using based on your skin type and needs.

In Essence

Skin flooding is more than just a trend, but a testament to the K-beauty commitment to achieving a flawless, dewy complexion through hydration. By layering hydrating products, you can give your skin the boost it needs to look and feel its best. So, why not give it a try? Flood your skin with moisture and enjoy a new level of hydration that will leave you glowing with confidence!