I didn’t plan to blog about skincare today, but happened to watch Gothamista’s (she is one of my favourite beauty Youtubers) video about the 7 Skin Method yesterday and that got me inspired. In case you haven’t heard about this new Korean beauty craze – and if you’re a normal person, you probably haven’t – the idea is to replace (most of) your beauty routine with seven layers of toner.

There are several takes on the trend, but the core concept is to use the same toner in thin layers applied in relatively quick succession. This should give you intensely hydrated, plump and supple skin. You could also use up to 7 different toners or essences, but that complicates things and misses some of the point. I really recommend watching the video for more details or read the post over at Glow Recipe for a nice overview.

I’m generally very skeptical about these kinds of beauty fads and would never give up my retinoids and acids anyway. But I was curious to try this, as I keep struggling with dehydration. So I’ve done the 7 Skin Method with three, five and seven layers, using either Klairs Supple Preparation Facial Toner or Whamisa Deep Rich Organic Flowers Toner. And you know, it works pretty well.

I only use my hands, no cotton pads, and pat the product on. While some recommend leaving up to 15 minutes between applications, I think this is actually counterproductive: the thin layer will not be enough to hydrate and skin will start drying out. It would also be completely unrealistic for most people. As long as skin is still absorbing, I just keep applying. It’s pretty amazing how much the skin can take in.

The key is not to use too much product (a dime-sized amount is the general guideline) and to choose the right product for you. Toners, essences and lotions can all work, but do not use anything with alcohol and avoid acids. The more watery the product, the easier it is to use for this, but slightly more viscous and bouncy toners (like Whamisa) might be more effective. What you do after your seven layers depends on your skin type and preferences. You can leave it like that or do the rest of your routine. I usually opt for something in between: I feel that I need at least an oil or moisturiser to seal it all in, to get maximum benefits.

Please do not take this post as encouragement to replace your tried and true skin care regimen with only a toner. What I do believe, however, is that layering your toner or essence can be a useful trick in your arsenal. I’m in particular thinking of people who are so dehydrated that nothing seems to help and who cannot tolerate richer creams. Doing several layers of a hydrating toner underneath a hyaluronic serum and a light moisturiser is worth a try. It could also be an option for people who are sensitive and only rarely find products that are effective, but also gentle enough. If you have found a toner that truly works for you, this is a way to use it to the max.

Personally, I can see myself putting some bonus layers of toner on when I want extra plumpness and softness. There is no denying that at least on my skin, this is what happens. I’m thinking the method could work very nicely with the SK-II Facial Treatment Essence that I’m currently out of and I’m also yet to try it with Blithe’s Vital Treatment Pulp Essence that I have on my shelf.

I suspect the full seven layers would be a perfect thing to do on a long flight, under my faithful Guerlain Midnight Secret. I’m sure people sitting next to me will be worried for my mental health, but I’ll do it anyway, for science.