If you’ve scrolled through Instagram or TikTok lately, chances are you’ve come across someone whose skin looks like it was made out of actual glass—perfectly smooth, glowing, and practically poreless. If you look hard enough, you may see your reflection off it. Want that type of skin? Keep reading.
This beauty trend may have started in Korea, but it’s fast taking over the globe. And before you start thinking it’s only for beauty gurus with endless shelves of products, let me assure you—glass skin is totally achievable. And no, you don’t need to sell your soul to the skincare gods.
What is glass skin?
Glass skin is dewy, radiant, and hydrated. It goes beyond a temporary glow, and cultivating a healthy skincare routine is the only way to get naturally luminous skin, with or without makeup. The secret? It’s all about hydration, hydration, and (you guessed it) more hydration.
The glass skin routine
Getting that lit-from-within glow doesn’t happen overnight. Achieving glass skin is a marathon, not a sprint, so patience is key. Here’s how to get started:
1. Double cleanse
The foundation of glass skin begins with squeaky, clean skin. A double cleanse—first with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, dirt, and oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to purify—gives you that fresh start. Think of it as cleaning a glass surface; you need it to be spotless before anything else.
2. Exfoliate (but don’t go overboard)
Yes, I know you’re the price, but don’t scrub your face like you’re trying to polish a trophy! A gentle chemical exfoliant 2-3 times a week helps get rid of dead skin cells, giving you that baby-soft feel without irritation.
3. Tone it up
A toner helps restore your skin’s pH balance and preps it for maximum absorption of the next steps. Pick a hydrating toner—this is no place for harsh alcohol-based ones. You want something with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin to lock in moisture.
4. The essence of it all
Now, here’s where we get to the juicy stuff. Korean skincare made essence a thing, and thank goodness they did. Essences are like water-based serums that provide a serious hydration boost, prepping your skin to look plump and dewy. Tap (don’t rub) it in for maximum effect.
5. Serums have superpowers
Serums are your skin’s best friends when it comes to glass skin. Go for something that targets hydration, like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C, to even out tone and give your skin that luminous finish.
6. Moisturise like it’s your job
If you think you can skip moisturising, think again! A lightweight, hydrating moisturiser locks in all the goodness you’ve layered on. It’s like the top coat for your glowing glass masterpiece.
7. Seal it all with face oil
If you want to level up, add face oil. Yes, even if you have oily skin. A few drops of oil at the end of your routine seal in moisture and create that soft, reflective glow that makes your skin look lit from within.
8. Sunscreen, always
This isn’t optional. Glowing, hydrated skin is only as good as its sun protection. Find a sunscreen that hydrates and leaves a subtle sheen—no white cast allowed! Your future self will thank you.
Glass skin hacks for the real world
Now, I get it—not everyone has time for a 7-step routine every single day. So here are a few quick hacks to help you fake it till you make it:
- Mist your face: Keep a hydrating face mist in your bag. A quick spritz throughout the day keeps your skin looking fresh and dewy.
- Glow up with makeup: Use a radiant primer or mix a liquid highlighter with your foundation for an instant glass-like glow.
- Stay hydrated: Yes, drinking water really helps! Hydrated skin starts from the inside out, so sip your way to a glow.
Achieving glass skin is all about keeping your skin hydrated, nourished, and healthy. Whether you’re ready to commit to a full Korean-inspired routine or just want to glow on the go, remember: your skin is your canvas. Treat it with care, and you’ll have that glass-like glow in no time.
Now go forth and glow!
