The Joseon Dynasty, which lasted from 1392 to 1910, was a period of great cultural and artistic achievement in Korea. The beauty standards of the time emphasized clear, radiant skin, and a youthful appearance. To achieve this, people in Joseon followed a meticulous skincare, makeup, and haircare routine that focused on natural ingredients and gentle techniques. In this article, we will explore the traditional beauty practices of Joseon and how they reflect the cultural values and aesthetics of the time.

Skincare Routine

The skincare routine of Joseon was based on the principles of balance and harmony. It consisted of several steps, each designed to cleanse, nourish, and protect the skin.

Cleansing

The first step in the skincare routine was cleansing. This was done using a gentle, natural cleanser made from ingredients like rice water, honey, or green tea. The cleanser was applied to the face and massaged in gently to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.

Exfoliation

Exfoliation was an important part of the skincare routine in Joseon. This was done using a gentle exfoliant made from ingredients like rice flour or ground apricot kernels. The exfoliant was applied to the face and massaged in gently to remove dead skin cells and reveal fresh, radiant skin.

Toning

After cleansing and exfoliating, the next step was toning. This was done using a natural toner made from ingredients like rose water or green tea. The toner was applied to the face using a cotton pad to remove any remaining impurities and to balance the skin’s pH levels.

Moisturizing

Moisturizing was an important step in the skincare routine of Joseon. This was done using a natural moisturizer made from ingredients like rice bran oil or shea butter. The moisturizer was applied to the face and massaged in gently to hydrate and nourish the skin.

Protection

The final step in the skincare routine was protection. This was done using a natural sunscreen made from ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The sunscreen was applied to the face and neck to protect the skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

Makeup Routine

The makeup routine of Joseon was based on the principles of balance and harmony. It consisted of several steps, each designed to enhance natural beauty and create a polished, elegant look.

Base Makeup

The first step in the makeup routine was base makeup. This was done using a natural foundation made from ingredients like rice powder or ground mung beans. The foundation was applied to the face and neck using a brush or sponge to create a smooth, even base.

Eyebrows

Eyebrows were an important part of the makeup routine in Joseon. They were shaped using a natural eyebrow pencil made from ingredients like charcoal or soot. The eyebrows were drawn in a straight, horizontal line to create a youthful, innocent look.

Eyes

The eyes were the focal point of the makeup routine in Joseon. They were enhanced using a natural eyeshadow made from ingredients like ground mica or crushed flowers. The eyeshadow was applied to the eyelids using a brush or finger to create a soft, subtle look.

Cheeks

The cheeks were another important part of the makeup routine in Joseon. They were enhanced using a natural blush made from ingredients like beetroot or hibiscus petals. The blush was applied to the apples of the cheeks using a brush or finger to create a healthy, youthful glow.

Lips

The lips were the final step in the makeup routine. They were enhanced using a natural lip tint made from ingredients like red clay or rose petals. The lip tint was applied to the lips using a brush or finger to create a soft, subtle look.

Haircare Routine

The haircare routine of Joseon was based on the principles of balance and harmony. It consisted of several steps, each designed to cleanse, nourish, and protect the hair.

Cleansing

The first step in the haircare routine was cleansing. This was done using a gentle, natural shampoo made from ingredients like rice water or green tea. The shampoo was applied to the hair and scalp and massaged in gently to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.

Conditioning

Conditioning was an important part of the haircare routine in Joseon. This was done using a natural conditioner made from ingredients like rice bran oil or shea butter. The conditioner was applied to the hair and massaged in gently to hydrate and nourish the hair.

Protection

The final step in the haircare routine was protection. This was done using a natural hair oil made from ingredients like camellia oil or argan oil. The hair oil was applied to the hair and scalp to protect the hair from the harmful effects of the sun and to add shine and luster.

Cultural Perspective

The beauty routines of Joseon reflect the cultural values and aesthetics of the time. The emphasis on natural ingredients and gentle techniques reflects the importance of harmony with nature and the desire for a balanced, healthy lifestyle. The focus on enhancing natural beauty and creating a polished, elegant look reflects the cultural values of refinement, sophistication, and grace.

In conclusion, the beauty routines of Joseon are a timeless legacy that can be adapted for modern use. By following the principles of balance and harmony and using gentle, natural ingredients, you can achieve the beauty of Joseon and enjoy clear, radiant skin, a flawless, elegant makeup look, and healthy, shiny hair.