What is glass skin?
Glass skin is a Korean beauty trend that mimics translucent, poreless, and ultra-dewy skin—like light reflecting off glass. It’s all about:
– Hydration (plump, juicy skin)
– Radiance (lit-from-within glow)
– Sheer coverage (no heavy makeup)
Unlike matte finishes, glass skin looks fresh, hydrated, and naturally luminous.
Skincare Prep: The Foundation of Glass Skin
Makeup won’t stick without proper skincare! Follow these steps:
Double Cleanse: The First Step to Glass Skin
Why? Removes impurities, excess oil, and makeup without stripping moisture.
Step 1: Oil-Based Cleanser
– Best for: Breaking down sunscreen, makeup, and sebum
– How to use:
– Apply to dry skin, massage in circular motions.
– Emulsify with water, rinse thoroughly.
– Recommended products:
– Banila Co Clean It Zero (gentle balm)
– DHC Deep Cleansing Oil (lightweight & effective)
Step 2: Water-Based Cleanser
– Best for: Deep cleansing pores without over-drying
– How to use:
– Apply to damp skin, lather gently.
– Rinse with lukewarm water.
– Recommended products:
– COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
– CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (for dry/sensitive skin)
Exfoliate (2-3 Times a Week)
Why? Removes dead skin cells, smooths texture, and enhances product absorption.
Chemical Exfoliants (Gentler Than Scrubs)
– AHA (Glycolic/Lactic Acid): Brightens & resurfaces
– BHA (Salicylic Acid): Unclogs pores (great for acne-prone skin).
– How to use:
– Apply after cleansing, before toner.
– Leave on for recommended time (don’t rinse unless specified).
– Recommended products:
– Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
– The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Hydrating Toner or Essence
Why? Preps skin for better absorption of serums & moisturizers.
-Hydrating Toner
– Best for: Immediate hydration & pH balancing
– How to use:
– Apply with hands or cotton pad.
– Press into skin (don’t wipe).
– Recommended products:
– Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
– Laneige Cream Skin Refiner (toner + moisturizer hybrid)
Essence (Optional but Recommended)
– Best for: Extra hydration & skin repair
– How to use:
– Pat into skin after toner.
– Recommended products:
– COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
– Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence
Serum & Moisturizer: Lock in Hydration
Why? Serums target specific concerns, while moisturizers seal in moisture.
Serum (Choose Based on Skin Needs)
– For hydration: Hyaluronic Acid (e.g., The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid)
– For brightening: Vitamin C (e.g., Melano CC Essence)
– For anti-aging: Niacinamide (e.g., Glossier Super Pure)
Moisturizer (Lightweight for Glass Skin)
– Best for: Preventing moisture loss without heaviness
– How to use:
– Apply a pea-sized amount, press into skin.
– Recommended products:
– Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb (gel-cream)
– Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream
SPF (Daytime Only—Non-Negotiable!)
Why? Protects from UV damage & prevents premature aging.
Best Dewy Sunscreens for Glass Skin
– Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+ (lightweight, hydrating)
– Canmake Mermaid Skin Gel UV SPF 50+ (no white cast)
– Supergoop Glowscreen SPF 40 (illuminating finish)
– How to Apply SPF
– Use 1/4 teaspoon for full face.
– Apply after moisturizer, before makeup.
– Reapply every 2 hours if outdoors.
Final Skincare Prep Tips for Glass Skin
✔ Wait 5 minutes between skincare steps for better absorption.
✔ Avoid heavy creams—they can make makeup slide off.
✔ Use a facial mist before makeup for extra dewiness.
Glass Skin Rule
“The better your skincare, the less makeup you need.”
