Does your face sometimes feel tight after cleansing, or overwhelmed by too many skincare steps? You do not necessarily need another serum. A simple routine built around gentle cleansing, moisturising and daytime sun protection is a good place to start.
What is the skin barrier?
The outermost layer of skin helps retain moisture and serves as a protective boundary. When skin feels uncomfortable, it is worth looking at your entire routine: harsh cleansing, frequent exfoliation and too many new products at once can all contribute to irritation for some people. Not every instance of dryness is a diagnosed barrier problem, so persistent redness, pain or eczema-like symptoms deserve professional advice.
Step 1: Choose a cleanser that suits your skin
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser is a gel cleanser intended for daily cleansing. It helps remove surface impurities without making the routine unnecessarily complicated.
Wet the face, use a small amount, massage gently and rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or hot water. If your skin is very dry, you may prefer a light morning cleanse and a fuller evening cleanse; personal comfort matters.
Step 2: Follow with moisturiser
Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream is a lightweight gel-cream formulated with ingredients including panthenol, niacinamide, centella and ceramide NP. Its role in a routine is to moisturise and help skin feel more comfortable.
Apply a suitable amount after cleansing, and after any serum you choose to use. Some people prefer a lighter texture during Malta's warmer months, while others need something richer. There is no universal moisturiser that suits everyone.
Step 3: Protect during the day
Use an appropriate broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning and reapply according to the packaging, especially during prolonged outdoor exposure. Sunscreen is an essential step even when the rest of your routine is minimal. If you're browsing Korean sunscreen, see Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Aqua-Fresh SPF50+ PA++++.
What should you avoid when skin feels irritated?
Consider putting strong exfoliants and newly introduced active products on hold until your skin feels comfortable. Avoid mixing several acids, exfoliating pads and retinoids in one evening without professional guidance. Introducing products one at a time can make it easier to identify what agrees with your skin.
Do you need a toner or serum?
Not necessarily. Toners and serums can be useful for specific preferences, but a basic cleanse–moisturise–protect routine is often enough to start. An optional serum should support, not complicate, the products you already enjoy.
Frequently asked questions
Is the COSRX cleanser suitable for sensitive skin?
It is marketed for daily use and fits many gentle routines, but individual sensitivities vary. Check the full INCI list, particularly if fragrance or other ingredients have caused you reactions before.
Can I use Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream morning and evening?
The product directions allow morning and/or evening use. In the morning, follow with sunscreen.
Will a skincare routine cure redness?
Cosmetics may help with hydration and the appearance of skin, but they are not a substitute for treatment of a persistent skin condition.
Shop the two-step routine in Malta
For a straightforward pairing, JAE ROOTS has put the COSRX Low pH Cleanser and Dr. Althea 345 Relief Cream together in the Barrier Rescue Duo. You can also browse our full K-Beauty collection. Free delivery is available across Malta, with no minimum spend.