Hi
I have dry dehydrated skin. My skin is not overly sensitive but I do experience hormonal breakout sporadically. I have no Korean skincare. I have tried Cosrx and elizzavecca serums in the past. And I do have a very expensive cleanser recommended by my acupuncturist called yina bioactive cleanser
I have never seen improvement in hydration of my skin and my barrier seems to be not very healthy but dehydrated.
My biggest concern is hydration and hyperpigmentation ( melasma) that I would like to fade with some acne hyperpigmentation marks.
Wondering what products specifically would help with that?
I have used prescription strength azalic and differin and hydroquinone at different times in the past to try to fade it but nothing seems to help and further dries out my already damaged skin barrier.
Would like a brighter more even complexion Tried vitamin c serums and hylauronic acid my skin seems to dry out further.
I have been wanting to try dr athera 345 cream but I am so confused on what products to try or start with?
Thanks
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Hi!
Thanks for the detailed background—it really helps me give specific, targeted recommendations. Since your skin is dry, dehydrated, prone to hormonal breakouts, and dealing with melasma and post-acne marks, the goal is to first repair and deeply hydrate your barrier, then gently introduce brightening agents.
Here’s a simple starter routine using Korean skincare products that are gentle, hydrating, and won’t overwhelm or dry you out further:
1. Cleansers
(Double cleanse at night. In the morning, just rinse with water.)
Oil-Based Cleanser (removes SPF & makeup):
• Beauty of Joseon Cleansing Balm
Water-Based Cleanser:
• YINA Bioactive Cleanser (if it’s not stripping, feel free to keep using it)
• Etude House SoonJung pH 6.5 Whip Cleanser (gentle, hydrating alternative)
2. Toner Pads
(Use after cleansing to rehydrate and prep skin—leave on for a few minutes, then gently wipe off.)
Skin1004 Centella Calming Pad
Skinfood Carrot Carotene Calming Pad
3. Hydrating Toner
(Helps with both hydration and brightening—great for dry inner skin.)
I’m From Rice Toner
Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Toner (Unscented)
4. Essence or Serum
(Targets hydration and pigmentation without irritation.)
[ANUA] Rice 7 Ceramide Hydrating Barrier Serum – gentle and brightening
Torriden Dive-In Low Molecule Hyaluronic Acid Serum – deep hydration
5. Moisturizer
Aestura Atobarrier 365 Cream – top seller, provides 100 hours of hydration
Dr. Athera 345 Cream – lightweight yet nourishing, designed for dry, acne-prone skin
6. SPF(AM Only)
(The most important step for melasma and preventing further pigmentation!)
Round Lab Birch Juice Moisturizing SPF– very hydrating
Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rice + Probiotics – calming and makeup-friendly
Optional Add-Ons (Introduce once your barrier is stronger):
Brightening Serums – gentle, pigmentation-focused options
VT Reedle Shot – helps with inner dryness and stubborn hyperpigmentation
Once you’ve picked products you’re comfortable with, I can help you build a step-by-step routine. And of course, feel free to reach out with any questions along the way!