How to Prep Skin Like Korean Idols

: Makeup Artist Essentials for Perfect Skin Prep

K-pop idols are known for flawless skin even after long performances—but how?

The answer lies in Korean skin prep before makeup, especially the precise routines artists use to smooth texture and build a long-lasting base.

This guide breaks down real K-pop idol skin prep techniques so you can prep your skin like a Korean idol.

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Korean makeup prep starts with cooling down the skin and refining texture.

Warm skin makes the foundation melt, and rough patches cause cracking.

That’s why toner pads are a must in many K-pop idol skin prep routines.

Source: Laundryou Official Website

The makeup artist behind Wonyoung’s signature radiant look recommends the Laundryou toner pads as an essential part of Korean base prep skincare.

(G)I-DLE Shuhua’s makeup artist uses Klairs Skin Prep Pads as part of Shuhua’s skin prep for a flawless base.

Source: dear Klairs Official Website

In idol makeup rooms, makeup artists build hydration with multiple light layers, rather than a single heavy coat. 

Since many idols have sensitive skin, artists rely on gentle but highly hydrating formulas.

Here are the moisture-boosting prep items recommended by the makeup artists for TWICE, IVE, and aespa.

For busy mornings, Chungha’s makeup artist recommends Menokin Bubble mask as a simple one-step solution. It gives a mask-like glow and absorbs deeply without traditional layering, making it an easy but effective option to a K-pop idol–style makeup prep routine.

Source: MENOKIN Official Website

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After finishing basic skincare, makeup artists always apply Korean base prep skincare, the “glue” that helps foundation adhere smoothly and last longer.

Here are three base prep essentials used in nearly every professional makeup studio.

If you want a daily base prep that isn’t too dewy or too matte, YUNJAC is a reliable pick. It smooths the skin surface for a cleaner foundation finish- which is the key point of Korean makeup.

JUNGSAEMMOOL Essential Mool Cream has a water-film texture which delivers deep hydration and the signature glow seen in how K-pop idols prep their skin before makeup

S. Nature is the gentlest option, often used in Korean makeup artist skin prep for stabilizing sensitive skin and balancing oil and moisture. Its lightweight formula makes it ideal for mornings and a reliable choice in a base prep routine for long-lasting makeup.

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