Last updated: March 2026
What Is Skin Flooding?
A K-beauty-inspired technique of layering multiple hydrating products onto damp skin to create a deeply moisturized, plump canvas before makeup application.
Skin flooding went viral on social media but has roots in the Korean skincare philosophy of building hydration in thin, successive layers. The method typically involves misting the face, applying a hydrating toner, following with a serum, and sealing everything with a moisturizer—all while the skin is still damp. The result is a bouncy, glass-skin-like base that helps makeup sit smoothly and last longer.
Tips
- Work fast—apply each layer while the previous one is still damp so products absorb together instead of sitting on top.
- Use lightweight, water-based formulas; heavy creams can pill when layered quickly.
- Wait 2–3 minutes after the final layer before applying primer or foundation so your base doesn't slide.
See it in action
Tutorials that use or demonstrate this technique: