Affordable Facials in Seoul | Where to go + the 10 Steps of a Korean Facial

Is getting a Korean facial a luxury? Probably. But I see it as an essential component of my skin and self-care routine.

Best of all, it doesn’t have to be expensive… especially in a city as beauty-obsessed as this one. Finding high quality, affordable facials in Seoul is easier than you think. You just have to know where to look (and understand a little bit of Korean).

There are plenty of affordable spas in beauty-obsessed Seoul. You just have to find them.

But I get it. It actually took years of living here to find the perfect spa. One where I could get a high-quality facial in Seoul, that checks all the boxes I look out for, like serenity, convenience and a good price point.

I’ll fill you in on exactly where that is later on, as well as tips for finding affordable facials in ANY neighbourhood in Seoul. First though, I’ll break down exactly what’s involved in a Korean facial, and why I think it’s important to take care of your skin, right from the start.

Korean skincare lessons learned from mom

I didn’t always treat myself to facials in Seoul, but some of my earliest childhood memories involve watching my mom carefully cleanse, tone and moisturize her skin before going to sleep. She instilled in me from a very young age, the importance of a proper Korean skincare routine to prevent early aging and problems later in life.

It’s something that’s stuck with me.

I can’t remember the last time I went to bed without at least washing my face, putting on toner and moisturizing. It’s not an exaggeration to say it’s probably never happened. Not even in my wild party days in Toronto, staying up all night long, dancing in smoke-filled environments.

Has it contributed to me looking younger than my 50 years? Who can say for certain, but it’s something I make sure I do each and every night, no matter what.

When I moved here many, many years later, I discovered that Korea’s obsession with beauty was next-level, and that my mom was actually somewhat of a cultural outsider in this regard. She hardly wears make-up and is as UNobsessed with physical appearance as could possibly be.

Three generations of women… at least 1 with her belly button exposed.

This is something she also passed on to me (fortunately, imo), so I’ve never been much into cosmetics, but I do think that proper skincare (and now, regular facials in Seoul) is essential.

Just like my mom.

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Why facials in Seoul are an integral part of my skincare routine

Now, as mom to my very own 7 year old crazy monster, I just don’t have the time or patience to do a 10 step Korean skincare routine every night. Truth is, I never did. However I do consider a Korean facial in Seoul every 2 or 3 weeks to be not just a treat, but an integral part of my skincare routine.

The amount of energy (MINE) consumed by this little peanut is incredible.

It’s not only a great break for this tired mommy, but I see almost immediate results in my skin, in terms of hydration, health and general glow.

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The Steps of a Korean Facial

A facial in Korea is usually made up of 4 broad categories: double cleansing, facial massage, masks, and the application of ampoules and creams. There’s probably some slight variation to this process depending on which spa you visit, but this is basically what you’re signing up for when you book a facial in Seoul.

The entire procedure takes around an hour, and you’ll come out of the room with noticeably hydrated, dewy skin.

Enter a Korean spa for a facial and you’ll come out with better skin

Facial in Seoul | Double Cleansing

One of the most important parts of a Korean facial is double cleansing. No facial in Seoul, affordable or not, will skip this essential step.

A double cleansing typically uses an oil based product first to remove make-up and foundation. A second deep cleanser is then applied using products tailored to your skin type.

Toners used during a facial in Seoul are super moisturizing

Nothing to do but relax during a Korean facial

After your skin is squeaky clean, toner is applied. There’s usually some kind of gentle exfoliation involved during deep cleansing, but nothing close to the painful extractions we’re used to in North America.

It should be noted that toner or “skin,” as it’s often called in Korea, is very different from what we’re used to in North America. Toners in Korea are super moisturizing and add to your skin. You’ll never find a toner here that strips your skin of moisture like they do in North America.

Double cleansing is an essential step during a facial in Korea

A rejuvenating head massage may be included

When I get a facial in Seoul, there’s often a short scalp massage included to stimulate the muscles and nerve endings in the head. This service varies from spa to spa. The cleansing process is completed with a hot steamed towel to remove any product residue and a 2nd application of toner.

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Facials in Seoul | Korean Massage

The cleansing during a facial in Seoul is followed by a décolleté massage that includes neck and shoulders. They’re not shy about getting close to the breast area. I have even had décolleté massages where they massage all around the breast WITHOUT actually touching the breast itself.

Do not be surprised if this should happen. It’s quite normal.

Decollete massage during a Korean facial

Next is undeniably my favourite part of the entire process – the facial massage. If I could find a Korean Spa where someone just rubbed my face for an entire hour, I’d be all over it, but usually it lasts about 10 incredibly blissful minutes.

The massage part of facials in Seoul hit acupressure points and stimulates the skin, leaving it plumped up and glowing.

The massage portion is completed with another hot steam towel and the third application of toner.

Application of Korean Facial Masks

There are 2 masks applied one on top of the other, during a Korean facial in Seoul. The first is tailored to your skin type and essentially painted onto your face.

The first mask being painted on

A thin gauze is placed on top of the first mask.

A thin gauze is placed on top of this mask, and then a very thick modelling mask with collagen is placed on top of the first mask. They use icy cold water to prepare this mask, and it usually covers the ENTIRE face, including eyes and sometimes, the lips.

The modelling mask mixed with icy cold water

Couuuld be claustrophobic…

You’re treated to a short arm and hand massage while the masks are drying, and then the aesthetician leaves the room, so all that goodness can soak into your skin. This is usually the point in the Korean facial, where I fall into the deepest of power naps.

If you’re claustrophobic though, you might want to mention this to your aesthetician. The mask could feel suffocating if you were so inclined.

A sweet, short arm massage.

Removal of both masks at the same time.

After about 10 minutes, the masks are removed, any residue is cleaned off your face, and it’s time for the final application of toner during your facial in Seoul.

Facials in Seoul | Ampoules and Creams

Sadly, your facial in Seoul is all but complete at this point. All that’s left to do is apply various ampoules, skin creams, eye cream, and sun protection if you desire.

Ampoules

It even feels good when they put on the cream.

*Thanks to my niece for letting me photograph her during this Korean facial treatment. I’m sure she didn’t suffer too much. 😉

Where I go for Korean facials in Seoul

I go to Seoul spas not just for Korean skincare, but also to relax and take a much needed break from mom life. A peaceful atmosphere is super important to me.

And that ain’t gonna be possible, if your aesthetician is chattering a million miles a minute to someone else. Or if the stranger next to you is snoring, as is unfortunately all too common when you get an affordable facial in Seoul.

K Spa

A little area for fixing up before leaving.

That’s why I’ve been going to K Spa in the Jamsil area for the last several years. Not just because it’s close to home, but because they offer something I’ve had trouble finding at a reasonable price in Seoul – quality Korean facials, private rooms, and a silent, spa environment.

Quality, affordable facials in Seoul at K Spa

At more famous Seoul spas like Shangpree, you’ll spend a minimum of 130,000KRW for a single Korean skincare treatment. But at K Spa, the cheapest a la carte facial is less than 70,000 won.

It’s a super reasonable price for what you’re getting if you ask me, but even better are the incredible monthly promotions and events that make it incredibly affordable to visit regularly. If you’re going to be in Korea for awhile, these are definitely the best way to get high-quality facials in Seoul at a reasonable price!

My most recent packages have included a 30 minute back massage, followed by an hour long Korean facial. To take advantage of these promotions, you’d need to pay for 10 sessions upfront and use them all within 6 months. These promos change on a monthly basis, so it’s best to call K-Spa yourself to ask what’s currently available.

How to Get to K Spa

Address: 서울 송파구 올림픽로35가길 10, B동 306호

K Spa is a little bit tricky to find, because it’s tucked away in the B-block of a bit residential complex, that also includes a commercial section. You have to buzz up to get into the building.

If you want to drive, there’s free parking available on the B1 level of the officetel. Make sure to ask for a stamp or coupon before you leave K Spa.

The closest subway station is Jamsil on Line 2. Take exit 7, and walk straight past the McDonalds and 2 separate Starbucks until you reach the traffic lights. Without crossing the street, make a right and walk straight until you pass the Samsung SDS Building.

Walk past the KEB bank to the end of the building.

Look out for this sign.

K Spa is located in the Jamsil Sharp Starpark building directly behind Home Plus. Don’t go in the main entrance. Walk all the way to the end of the building, past the KEB bank. Once you reach the end of the building, make a right, and then another immediate right into the complex of buildings.

Look out for the entrance doors that say “Officetel B,” in Korean on your right hand side. Buzz #306, and you’re just a short elevator ride away from Korean facial nirvana.

How to Make an Appointment

Phone: 02-412-4333

This is a tiny spa in a residential area (hence the super-affordable prices for facials in Seoul. They do not have a website for booking, and they speak very limited English.

If you’re visiting for the first time, or interested in finding out more about their promotions and events, it’s probably best to have a Korean speaker call for you.

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Have you had a Korean facial? Do you know where to get an affordable facial in Seoul?