In what order? AHA (Glycolic/Lactic) + Hyaluronic Acid + Squalane
The optimal order for AHA (Glycolic/Lactic), Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane is: AHA (Glycolic/Lactic) → Hyaluronic Acid → Squalane. Apply thinnest to thickest, low-pH actives first, oils last — the Korean barrier-friendly way.
Apply in this order
AHA (Glycolic/Lactic)Hyaluronic AcidSqualane⚗️ Check any combo →
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What is hyaluronic acid and how do you use it?
Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that draws water into the skin for a plumper, hydrated look. In Korean routines it's best applied to damp skin and sealed with a moisturizer on top, so the moisture it attracts stays locked in rather than evaporating.
What order do you apply Korean skincare?
A general Korean order goes thinnest to thickest: cleanse, then toner, essence, serum or ampoule, eye cream, moisturizer, and sunscreen last in the morning. Lighter, watery layers go on first so they absorb, with richer creams and sun protection sealing everything in.
What is the difference between AHA and BHA?
AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble and work on the skin's surface to brighten and smooth, while BHA like salicylic acid is oil-soluble and gets into pores. In Korean skincare both are used sparingly, a few times weekly, always with daily sun protection.
✍️ Written & reviewed by the KoreaPlus Editorial team — dermatologist-informed, cosmetic-science researched & source-cited. Last reviewed 2026-06-21.
General educational information using cosmetic structure-function wording — not medical advice. Always patch-test new actives. © KoreaPlus.