Actress Ko Hyun-jung (55), widely recognized for her exceptionally youthful appearance, recently shared her meticulous before-bed skincare and hair-care routine.
In a vlog posted on her official YouTube channel, Ko Hyun-jung demonstrated her precise nighttime ritual. After completing her facial cleansing steps, she immediately applied a facial mist, gently patting it into her face to smooth and prep her skin. Next, she layered on a lifting serum to target firmness, followed by a dense night cream to lock in moisture and prevent dehydration during sleep. Finally, she focused on her hair health by applying a scalp serum. After spraying the product directly onto her crown, she dispensed additional serum into her hands to thoroughly massage areas that were difficult to reach with the spray.
Below is a detailed, evidence-based analysis of the specific products and ingredients Ko Hyun-jung incorporates into her evening care regime.
Misting Immediately Post-Cleansing: Lock in Moisture Before Evaporation Occurs
Spraying a facial mist immediately after cleansing temporarily hydrates the stratum corneum (the outermost layer of skin) and allows subsequent topicals to spread more evenly. However, a mist alone cannot provide sustained hydration. The critical factor is applying a comprehensive moisturizer before the skin dries completely to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), applying a moisturizer while the skin is still slightly damp after bathing or cleansing is essential for managing dry skin.
Hydrating agents frequently found in mists—such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin—excel at binding water molecules to the skin. However, in low-humidity environments, repeatedly spraying a water-based mist without an occlusive layer can backfire, drawing moisture out of the deeper layers of the skin and leaving it feeling tighter. Rather than acting as a standalone moisturizer, a mist is best utilized as a priming step to lightly hydrate the skin prior to serum application.
Lifting Serums: The Role of Peptides, Vitamin C, and Retinoids
Lifting serums are formulated to improve surface elasticity and give the skin a firmer, smoother appearance. These formulations typically rely on a combination of active ingredients, including peptides, vitamin C, niacinamide, and retinoids (such as retinol or retinal).
Peptides: Short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks, stimulating the cellular processes that produce collagen and elastin to maintain youthful skin structure.
Vitamin C: A potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals, brightens hyperpigmentation, and serves as a critical co-factor in collagen synthesis.
Retinoids: Vitamin A derivatives that accelerate cellular turnover to smooth fine lines and improve texture. However, retinoids can induce side effects like erythema (redness), dryness, and peeling. Beginners should start with a low concentration applied two to three nights per week.
It is worth noting that topical cosmetics cannot physically lift significantly sagging structural tissue. For individuals with sensitive skin, it is advisable to avoid formulations that combine high-strength acids, concentrated retinoids, and synthetic fragrances or essential oils, as these significantly elevate the risk of contact dermatitis.
Night Creams: Sustaining the Barrier with Ceramides and Emollients
Night creams are intentionally formulated to minimize moisture loss and fortify the skin barrier overnight. Because evening products remain on the skin for hours without the disruption of makeup or environmental UV exposure, rich moisturizers are highly effective for nocturnal skin repair.
Topical moisturizers generally utilize three distinct mechanisms: humectants (like glycerin and hyaluronic acid) that draw water into the skin; emollients (such as fatty acids) that smooth the skin surface; and occlusives (like petrolatum and silicones) that form a physical barrier to block water evaporation.
To combat nighttime dryness, individuals should look for formulations containing ceramides, cholesterol, free fatty acids, and shea butter. Conversely, those with acne-prone skin should avoid heavy oils, coconut oil, or cocoa butter, as these are highly comedogenic and can clog pores. For sensitive skin types, utilizing fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulations minimizes the risk of breakouts and irritation.
Scalp Serums: Prioritizing Scalp Hydration and Follicular Health
As Ko Hyun-jung demonstrated, applying a targeted serum to the crown of the head before bed is an effective way to hydrate and soothe an environment prone to dryness and tension. Because the scalp is an extension of the facial skin, chronic dryness can trigger pruritus (itching), flaking, and inflammation, which can ultimately compromise hair quality and volume.
Modern scalp serums are formulated with ingredients such as niacinamide, panthenol (provitamin B5), caffeine, peptides, and botanical extracts. These components are designed to calm irritation, maintain a balanced scalp microbiome, and improve microcirculation without weighing down the hair roots. However, consumers should maintain realistic expectations: unless a product contains an approved active pharmaceutical ingredient (such as minoxidil), cosmetic serums will not treat clinical alopecia (hair loss). If persistent itching, stinging, or localized redness occurs, usage should be discontinued immediately.
