Hey, Mamas! Your Beginner’s Guide to K-Beauty with Simply Mama Julz
Hey, my beautiful mama tribe! If you’re like me—a 35-year-old Filipina stay-at-home mom in Las Vegas, juggling two wild boys (ages 6 and 4), sneaking boba runs, and dealing with sensitive combo skin—you’ve probably dreamed of that glowy, glass-skin look but thought, “Who has time for that?” Well, guess what? K-Beauty—Korean skincare—is my secret to radiant skin that fits my chaotic mama life, and it’s way easier than it sounds. As a beginner myself once, I’m spilling all the tea on how to start your K-Beauty journey without overwhelm. Grab your coffee (or iced matcha!), and let’s dive into this beginner’s guide to K-Beauty, Simply Mama Julz style!
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you shop through them—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Simply Mama Julz!
What Is K-Beauty, Anyway?
K-Beauty is the skincare magic from South Korea that’s taken the world by storm. It’s not just about products—it’s a whole vibe focused on hydrating, nourishing, and preventing skin issues to get that dewy, “I woke up like this” glow. Think gentle ingredients, fun routines, and a philosophy that says, “Love your skin today for a happier face tomorrow.” It reminds me of my Filipina mom and titas pampering their skin with care, but with cool twists like snail mucin and sheet masks.
Brands like COSRX, SKIN1004, and Beauty of Joseon are K-Beauty superstars, offering affordable, effective products that work for my sensitive skin—especially in Vegas’s dry heat—and suit all skin types, whether you’re 20 or 40, oily or dry.
Why K-Beauty’s Perfect for Beginner Mamas
Starting K-Beauty can feel like learning a new language, but trust me, it’s mama-friendly. Here’s why I fell in love, and you will too:
• Gentle on Sensitive Skin: My skin freaks out with harsh stuff, but K-Beauty’s soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and hyaluronic acid keep it calm and hydrated.
• Quick and Customizable: Got 5 minutes while the kids watch Bluey? You can do a simple routine that still delivers glow.
• Budget-Friendly: From drugstore gems to luxe-yet-affordable picks, it’s cheaper than my weekly Target splurges.
• Self-Care Vibes: Those few minutes of skincare are my time to feel like Julz, not just “Mama.”
• Results You See: With consistency, my skin went from dull to dewy in weeks—no filter needed!
A Beginner’s K-Beauty Routine: 4 Steps to Glow
You’ve probably heard of the famous 10-step K-Beauty routine, and I know what you’re thinking: “Julz, I barely have time to pee!” Don’t worry—I’m keeping it real with a 4-step beginner routine that takes 5–7 minutes, morning and night. It’s gentle, effective, and perfect for sensitive skin like mine. Here’s the plan, with my go-to products and where to grab them:
Morning Routine (AM)
1. Cleanse
Why: Wakes up your skin and clears overnight oils for a fresh start.
How: Use a gentle water-based cleanser with lukewarm water.
My Pick: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser—it’s soft on my sensitive skin and smells like a spa.
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• Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Time: 1 minute.
Mama Tip: Splash your face while singing your kid’s favorite cartoon theme song—makes it fun!
2. Toner
Why: Hydrates and preps your skin to soak up the good stuff, like a primer for your face.
How: Pat it in with clean hands or a cotton pad.
My Pick: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner—calms my redness and feels like a hug.
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• Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Time: 30 seconds.
Mama Tip: Keep it on your bathroom counter for a quick grab-and-go.
3. Moisturizer
Why: Locks in hydration for soft, plump skin—crucial in dry Vegas!
How: Massage in upward circles for a mini glow boost.
My Pick: Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream—rich but not greasy, perfect for my combo skin.
• Shop on Amazon
• Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Time: 1 minute.
Mama Tip: A pea-sized amount is enough—save that jar for months!
4. Sunscreen
Why: Protects against UV rays (Vegas sun, I’m looking at you!) and prevents aging.
How: Apply generously as your last step.
My Pick: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun—no white cast, sinks in fast, loves my Filipina skin.
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• Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Time: 1 minute.
Mama Tip: Sing “You Are My Sunshine” to your kids while slathering—it’s a mood-lifter!
Evening Routine (PM)
1. Double Cleanse
Why: Removes sunscreen, makeup, and dirt so your skin can breathe.
How: Start with an oil-based cleanser, then follow with your water-based one.
My Picks: Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm for step one, then COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser.
• Banila Co: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• COSRX: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Time: 2 minutes.
Mama Tip: Do it while the kids brush their teeth—teamwork makes the dream work!
2–3. Toner and Moisturizer
Same as morning—use SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner and Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream to hydrate and lock it in.
• SKIN1004: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Beauty of Joseon: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Bonus Treat (1–2x a week, PM): Pop on a Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Blemish Control Mask for 10–15 minutes while you scroll Pinterest or referee a Nerf battle. It’s a mini spa moment that calms my skin.
• Shop on Amazon
• Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Total Time: 5–7 minutes AM, 6–8 minutes PM (less if you skip the mask).
Pro Tip: If this feels like too much, start with just cleanser and moisturizer, then add toner and sunscreen after a week. Baby steps, mama!
Key Ingredients to Look For
K-Beauty’s magic comes from its ingredients, and as a beginner, you don’t need to know them all—just a few stars. Here’s what I love for sensitive skin:
• Centella Asiatica (Cica): Soothes redness—found in SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Toning Toner.
• Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates like a tall glass of water—in Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream.
• Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Snail Mucin (Optional Add-On): Heals and plumps—try COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence once you’re ready for a fifth step.
• Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Rice Extract: Brightens—in Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun.
• Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
Patch-Test Alert: Always test new products on your wrist or jawline first. My sensitive skin’s been there, and trust me, it’s worth the extra step!
How to Start Without Overwhelm
I remember feeling lost when I first saw K-Beauty shelves, so here’s my beginner blueprint to keep it chill:
1. Know Your Skin Type
• Sensitive: Redness or irritation? Stick to cica and fragrance-free (like me!).
• Oily: Shiny by noon? Go for lightweight gels.
• Dry: Tight or flaky? Rich creams are your friend.
• Combo: Oily T-zone, dry cheeks? Balance with hydrating but non-greasy products.Not sure? Start with my recs—they’re gentle for all types.
2. Shop Smart
• Where: Grab COSRX, SKIN1004, Beauty of Joseon, Mediheal, and Banila Co with my code SIMPLYJULZ5 for deals:
• Amazon
• YesStyle
• Olive Young
• Starter Kit: Try a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen—like COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser and Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream. Budget $30–50 total—less than a mama mani!
• COSRX: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
• Beauty of Joseon: Shop on Amazon | Shop on YesStyle – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5 | Shop on Olive Young – Use code SIMPLYJULZ5
3. Ease In
• Week 1: Cleanse and moisturize.
• Week 2: Add toner.
• Week 3: Add sunscreen (AM only).
• Week 4: Try a sheet mask for fun.
• This slow roll saved my skin from freaking out.
4. Stay Consistent
• Do your routine daily (or as close as mama life allows). I saw softer skin in 2 weeks and real glow by week 4.
5. Ask for Help
• Confused? DM me on Instagram (@simplymamajulz) or chat with a dermatologist for pro advice.
What to Expect in 30 Days
Here’s the glowy timeline I experienced as a K-Beauty newbie:
• Week 1: Skin feels cleaner and softer—less “meh.”
• Week 2: Hydration kicks in—my redness started chilling out.
• Week 3: Dewy vibes show up, especially after toner.
• Week 4: Glow alert! Smoother, brighter skin that made me selfie-ready.
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
I’ve had my oops moments, so let’s skip these:
• Buying Everything: You don’t need 10 products day one. Start with 4.
• Skipping Sunscreen: UV rays are sneaky—Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun is non-negotiable.
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• Not Patch-Testing: A breakout’s no fun. Test first, glow later.
• Giving Up Early: Glow takes time—stick with it for a month.
Why I Love K-Beauty as a Mama
K-Beauty’s more than skincare—it’s my daily dose of me-time. Growing up Filipina, I watched my mom and titas glow with simple routines, and K-Beauty feels like that tradition, modernized. It’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin, quick enough for my Nerf-war-filled days, and gives me confidence to rock the playground or a rare date night. When I catch that glow in the mirror, I’m reminded I’m more than “Mama”—I’m Julz, and I’m thriving.
Ready to Glow?
You don’t need to be a skincare pro to start K-Beauty—just a mama who wants to feel good in her skin. My beginner routine and tips are your map to glowing without stress. One step at a time, you’ll be shining like the superstar you are. Let’s make K-Beauty your new happy place!
Let’s Chat: What’s the first K-Beauty product you’re grabbing? Drop it in the comments, and let’s geek out over glowy skin! Subscribe to Simply Mama Julz for more tips, and follow me on Instagram (@simplymamajulz) for real-time mama-and-K-Beauty vibes.
