If you’ve been following the beauty scene for a while, you may be familiar with “glass skin.” If not, let us explain: At its simplest, glass skin is a Korean beauty term used to describe hydrated, healthy, clear skin that has the same illumination properties as glass. Achieving this sought-after look takes patience and dedication, but it is possible! Here are some tips for getting glass skin.
Start Gently
Remember: Skincare routines are never one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to identify your skin type and which products work best for your skin. Start with a gentle morning cleanser that won’t strip your skin of its natural oils.
Our Pick: Paula’s Choice Clear Pore Normalizing Cleanser ($14, shop here)
Slap on Some Serum
The most notable feature of glass skin is the dewy glow. Therefore, you want to find ways for your skin to draw in and retain as much moisture as possible by using a serum containing niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. Serums are essentially food for your skin, penetrating deep into your pores to nourish your face from the inside out.
Our Pick: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($13.50, shop here)
Moisturize Like Mad
Even if you have oily skin, an effective moisturizer is key to achieving the glass skin look. Find a nourishing, lightweight formula that easily absorbs so that it has time to settle into your skin before you apply any cosmetics.
Our Pick: Paula’s Choice Water-Infused Electrolyte Moisturizer ($36, shop here)
Don’t Skimp on SPF
The sun is one of the biggest aggressors on your skin. Not only do the rays speed up aging, but they also ruin your skin’s natural defense system after just a couple of hours of exposure. Find an SPF that works for your lifestyle and skin type and reapply throughout the day. For maximum protection, follow the three-finger sunscreen rule to ensure you’re using the right amount of product per application.
Our Pick: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen SPF 50 ($34, shop here)
Opt for Some Oil
There’s a lot of hesitance surrounding facial oils, specifically for those with oily or acne-prone skin. But an oil-based cleanser can gently lift makeup from your skin without compromising the surface of your face. Simply pump the product into your hands, massage it into your skin, then rinse and repeat if necessary.
Our Pick: Shiseido Essentials Perfect Cleansing Oil ($35, shop here)
Follow Up With a Water-Based Cleanser
We recommend using a water-based cleanser for your nightly skincare routine. These formulas are gentle and incredibly effective in removing sweat and dirt.
Our Pick: L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water ($8.43, shop here)
Exfoliate, But Sparingly
Congested skin may need the assistance of an exfoliant to remove excess sebum and buildup, but the last thing you want to do is tear your face up with a facial scrub. Instead, find a face wash that uses chemical exfoliants (AHAs/BHAs) to shed dead skin cells. Start out with a weekly application, moving up to twice weekly if necessary.
Our Pick: SkinCeuticals Glycolic Renewal Cleanser ($39, shop here)
Tone Your Skin
Those with glass skin swear toners, as they assist the skin in holding onto hydration. Moisturized skin is a strong foundation for collagen production and oil regulation, both of which help give skin that luminous finish. We recommend an essence/toner combo that combats free radicals.
Our Pick: Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water ($18, shop here)
Night Cream Is Your Best Friend
Though you may be sleeping, your skin is hard at work. Nighttime is prime time for your skin to repair any damage done throughout the day, so you’ll want an enriching cream-based moisturizer to settle into the skin. This consistency also helps seal in your other skin products, ensuring none of your hard work goes to waste.
Our Pick: Peach & Lily Overnight Star Night Cream ($43, shop here)
What products do you use during your glass skin routine? Share with us in the comments below!