Have you seen the “glass skin” trend on Instagram, TikTok, or beauty-focused social media? It’s all about a dewy, smooth complexion. Korean skincare is at the heart of this trend. Natalia Barzotti, a licensed esthetician, says a 10-step Korean skincare routine is key to this look.
I’m always looking for the latest in skincare, and glass skin caught my eye. I wanted to know what makes it special and how to get it. Let’s explore the top 10 steps to get that Korean glass skin glow.
The Korean Glass Skin Phenomenon
The “glass skin” is a big deal in Korean skincare. It’s a smooth, shiny look that people love. It’s like the skin is made of glass, showing off its health and glow.
This trend started because Koreans value skin health a lot. They think that when skin is well-hydrated and protected, it looks amazing.
What is Glass Skin?
Glass skin means your skin looks almost without pores. It’s smooth and shiny, like glass. To get this look, you need to follow a special skincare routine.
Experts like Natalia Barzotti say it’s all about keeping your skin hydrated and gently exfoliating it.
Why is Glass Skin So Popular in Skincare?
Glass skin is loved because of how Koreans take care of their skin. They focus on keeping it healthy and hydrated. This makes their skin look bright and beautiful.
People all over the world are now following this Korean skincare way. They want their skin to look as good as glass.
The Science Behind Glass Skin: Hydration and Skin Barrier Health
The secret to glass skin is keeping your skin hydrated and strong. Koreans use a mix of products to do this. They use cleansers, exfoliators, essences, serums, and moisturizers.
This routine helps keep the skin moist and safe. And that’s how you get that glass-like glow.
Step 1: Master Double Cleansing for Clear Skin
Double cleansing(here) is a key part of the Korean glass skin routine. It helps you get a radiant, clear complexion. You use an oil-based cleanser first, then a water-based one. This method removes makeup, sunscreen, and dirt gently.
What is Double Cleansing?
Double cleansing uses both an oil-based and a water-based cleanser. The oil-based one gets rid of oil-soluble dirt like sebum and makeup. The water-based cleanser then takes out water-soluble impurities. This leaves your skin clean and ready for more skincare steps.
How to Choose the Right Oil and Water-Based Cleansers
- Oil Cleansers: Choose ones with natural oils like jojoba, coconut, or olive oil. They gently remove makeup and impurities without drying out your skin.
- Water-Based Cleansers: Opt for a gentle, non-foaming cleanser. Look for ones with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. They help keep your skin’s barrier health in check.
Benefits of Double Cleansing for Glass Skin
Double cleansing offers many benefits for achieving glass skin:
- Thorough Cleansing: It makes sure all makeup, sunscreen, and dirt are gone. This leaves your skin ready for the next steps.
- Unclogged Pores: The oil and water-based cleansers remove excess sebum and dirt. This helps make pores less visible.
- Balanced Skin: Double cleansing keeps your skin’s natural pH and barrier health. It prevents dryness or irritation.
- Improved Product Absorption: A clean, balanced skin lets your skincare products work better. They can penetrate deeper and be more effective.
Mastering double cleansing is a big step towards the Korean glass skin look. Pick the right cleansers for your skin type. Make double cleansing a part of your daily skincare routine.
Step 2: Exfoliate Gently to Reveal Smooth Skin
Exfoliation is key in the Korean glass skin routine. It removes dead skin cells and clears pores for a glowing look. But, be gentle to avoid harming your skin’s barrier. Esthetician Natalia Barzotti suggests exfoliating 1-2 times per week, especially where pores are visible.
The top exfoliants for glass skin are gentle physical ones like rice bran and enzymes. Also, chemical exfoliants like lactic acid and salicylic acid are great. They make your skin smoother, reduce pores, and get ready for the next steps in your routine.
Physical exfoliants like rice bran and enzyme scrubs offer a gentle, skin-smoothing effect. Chemical exfoliants, like lactic acid and salicylic acid, minimize pores and brighten the skin. Adding these pore-minimizing and skin-brightening ingredients to your routine can give you a smoother, more radiant complexion.
| Exfoliating Ingredient | Benefits for Glass Skin |
|---|---|
| Rice Bran | Gentle physical exfoliation, skin smoothing |
| Enzymes | Gentle physical exfoliation, skin smoothing |
| Lactic Acid | Chemical exfoliation, pore minimizing, skin brightening |
| Salicylic Acid | Chemical exfoliation, pore minimizing, skin brightening |
Step 3: Hydrate with a Balancing Toner
After you clean and exfoliate, it’s time for a hydrating toner(get the offer). These toners are key in the Korean glass skin routine. They balance your skin’s pH and help it absorb other skincare products better. Esthetician Alicia Yoon says Korean toners are super hydrating, unlike old, drying ones.
These toners have ingredients like aloe, licorice, and citric acid. They add moisture and calm your skin, making it ready for more skincare. Avoid toners with alcohol and harsh chemicals, as they can harm your skin’s barrier.
The Role of Toners in Achieving Glass Skin
Toners are vital in Korean skincare. They balance your skin’s pH, keeping it healthy. A balanced pH lets your skin absorb other products better, leading to better hydration and nourishment.
Hydrating vs. Astringent Toners: Which One is Better?
For glass skin, hydrating toners are the best choice. They are gentle, non-drying, and full of good stuff for your skin. Astringent toners, however, can take away your skin’s natural oils, causing imbalance and irritation.
For the best glass skin routine, choose a hydrating toner. Look for ones with hydrating toner, skin balancing, and skin pH boosters.
Step 4: Use Essence for Deep Hydration and Skin Repair
Getting the Korean glass skin look starts with using an essence(special offer here). Essences are light, hydrating liquids packed with good stuff for your skin. They help your skin look flawless and radiant by providing deep hydration and repair.
Why Essence is the Secret Weapon for Glass Skin
Essences have humectants, antioxidants, and nourishing ingredients like rice extract and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients make your skin moist, smooth, and glowy. Alicia Yoon, Peach & Lily’s founder, says essences are essential for glass skin.
How to Apply Essence Properly for Glass Skin Results
- After cleansing and toning, take a small essence amount in your hand.
- Pat the essence gently into your skin, focusing on dry spots.
- Don’t rub or wipe the essence to keep your skin’s barrier intact.
- Keep patting until the essence is fully absorbed, making your skin ready for more steps in your glass skin routine.
Adding an essence to your daily care routine helps you get deeply hydrated, radiant, and youthful skin. This is the base for the Korean glass skin glow.
Step 5: Target Skin Concerns with Serums and Ampoules
After adding essence to your routine, it’s time for serums and ampoules. These treatments tackle specific skin issues like dullness and acne. The right serums and layering are key to that glass-like glow.
Choosing the Right Serum for Your Skin Type and Concerns
Not all serums fit everyone. It’s important to pick ones that match your skin type and needs. Look for serums with vitamin C (check this) for brightness, hyaluronic acid for moisture, and niacinamide for skin health.
Powerful Ingredients to Look for in Serums
- Vitamin C – This antioxidant fades dark spots and brightens your skin.
- Hyaluronic Acid – It deeply hydrates, plumping lines for a dewy look.
- Niacinamide – It balances oil, minimizes pores, and strengthens your skin.
Layering Serums for Enhanced Glass Skin Effects
To boost the glass skin look, layer serums from light to heavy. Start with a serum for your main concern. Then, add a booster or ampoule for extra power. This delivers active ingredients for a radiant glow.
| Serum Type | Targeted Skin Concern | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Brightening Serum | Dullness, Uneven Skin Tone | Vitamin C, Niacinamide, Licorice Root |
| Anti-Aging Serum | Fine Lines, Wrinkles | Retinol, Peptides, Coenzyme Q10 |
| Hydrating Serum | Dry, Dehydrated Skin | Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, Panthenol |
| Blemish-Clearing Serum | Acne, Clogged Pores | Salicylic Acid, Tea Tree Oil, Benzoyl Peroxide |
Step 6: Lock in Moisture with Lightweight Moisturizers
To get the glass skin look, you need a moisturizer that’s both light and nourishing. Hydrating moisturizers(get the offer now) make your skin plump and smooth. They keep your skin dewy and radiant, just like in Korean beauty.
Importance of Hydrating Moisturizers for Glass Skin
Moisturizers are key in the glass skin routine. They seal in the benefits of double cleansing, exfoliating, and using essence and serums. They add a protective layer that keeps your skin hydrated and glowing.
How to Choose a Moisturizer Based on Skin Type
- Dry Skin: Choose a cream moisturizer with ceramides, glycerin, and shea butter. It will hydrate your skin.
- Oily Skin: Go for a lightweight, oil-free gel or lotion. It won’t clog pores or feel heavy.
- Combination Skin: Pick a water-based gel-cream. It hydrates dry areas without making oily zones greasy.
Moisturizer Application Tips for a Dewy Finish
To get the glass skin glow, apply moisturizer gently with a patting motion. This boosts hydration without harming your skin’s barrier. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, centella asiatica, and panthenol make your skin look dewy and plump.
Step 7: Apply Sunscreen to Protect and Perfect Skin
Applying sunscreen(try this) is the last step in the Korean glass skin routine. It’s key to keep your skin safe and glowing. Sunscreen blocks harmful UV rays that can harm your skin’s health and glow.
When picking a sunscreen, look for a lightweight, hydrating one. This type won’t mess with your skin’s natural moisture.
Why Sunscreen is Essential for Glass Skin
Sunscreen is crucial for keeping your skin healthy and looking good. UV rays can cause early aging, damage, and uneven skin tone. These issues can ruin your glass skin look.
By using sunscreen daily, you protect your skin. It keeps your skin looking young, smooth, and bright.
Best Lightweight Sunscreens That Don’t Disrupt Hydration
- Choose sunscreens with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide(available now). They offer good protection without making your skin look white.
- Go for hydrating, silky-smooth formulas. They blend well with your skin without messing up your routine.
- Stay away from thick, greasy sunscreens. They can clog pores and make your skin look shiny or oily.
How to Reapply Sunscreen Without Ruining Your Glass Skin Glow
It’s important to reapply sunscreen often to keep your glass skin look. Pick a sunscreen that works well with other products. It should keep your skin dewy and radiant.
Carry a small, portable sunscreen with you. Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially on your face, neck, and hands.
By adding sunscreen to your routine, you protect your skin from UV rays. You also keep your skin looking healthy and young.
Step 8: Incorporate Sheet Masks for an Instant Boost of Hydration
Adding sheet masks to your Korean glass skin routine can give your skin a quick hydration boost. These masks are filled with a strong essence that deeply moisturizes your skin. They help make your skin look plump, brighten, and smooth.
How Often Should You Use Sheet Masks for Glass Skin?
Esthetician Alicia Yoon suggests using a sheet mask 1-2 times a week. This is especially good when your skin needs more hydration and soothing. Ingredients like cucumber, green tea, and rose are great for this.
Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Sheet Masks
- Leave the sheet mask on for the recommended 15-20 minutes.
- Gently pat in any remaining essence after removing the mask.
Using sheet masks can instantly nourish and hydrate your skin. This helps you get that beautiful glass skin glow.
Step 9: Use Face Oils for an Extra Glow (Optional)
Face oils can be a great addition to your skincare routine for glass skin. They add shine and strength to your skin. They also help keep your skin healthy and bright.
How Face Oils Enhance the Glass Skin Effect
Face oils have oils like squalane and jojoba that help your skin. They lock in moisture and make your skin look smooth. This gives your skin a shiny, glass-like look.
Choosing the Right Face Oil for Your Skin Type
It’s important to pick a face oil that fits your skin. If you have oily skin, choose a light oil. Dry skin needs a richer oil. Try different ones to find the right balance for you.
When and How to Apply Face Oils in Your Routine
Apply face oils last in your routine. You can use them alone or mix them with your moisturizer. This helps your skin glow. Use a few drops and rub it into your skin, especially on your cheeks.
Step 10: Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle for Long-Term Glow
The 10-step Korean glass skin routine focuses on skincare products. But, a healthy lifestyle is key for a glowing complexion. Drinking enough water and eating a diet full of nutrients nourishes your skin.
Hydration from Within: Diet and Water Intake for Skin Health
Eating foods high in antioxidants, like fruits and veggies, is good for your skin. Foods with healthy fats, like cold-water fish and avocados, help keep your skin strong and young.
The Impact of Sleep and Stress on Achieving Glass Skin
Enough quality sleep and managing stress are also important. Stress and not enough sleep can harm your skin’s health and hydration.
Avoiding Harmful Habits (Smoking, Alcohol) for Healthy Skin
Staying away from smoking and too much alcohol is crucial. These habits can hurt your skin and ruin the glass skin look. Adding these wellness tips to your glass skin routine will keep your skin glowing.
By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, you support your skin’s natural glow. This makes your glass skin journey last for years.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Trying to Achieve Glass Skin
Getting the Korean glass skin look needs a good skincare routine. But, even the best routine can go wrong because of common mistakes. To keep your skin healthy and bright, avoid these mistakes.
Over-Exfoliation and Its Impact on Skin Barrier Health
One big mistake is over-exfoliating. While exfoliating is key for smooth, bright skin, too much can harm your skin’s barrier. Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum says to use gentle exfoliating pads with glycolic acid and PHAs for safe, effective exfoliation.
Skipping Sunscreen: A Major Setback for Glass Skin
Another big mistake is not using sunscreen. Sun exposure can ruin your glass skin routine, making your skin dull and aged. Board-certified dermatologist Tiffany Libby stresses the need for SPF 30 or higher sunscreen to keep your skin protected and glowing.
Using the Wrong Products for Your Skin Type
Lastly, using the wrong products can stop you from getting glass skin. Dermatologist Marnie Nussbaum suggests using a hydrating serum with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Also, a moisturizer with Japanese purple rice and hyaluronic acid can add radiance. It’s important to choose products that fit your skin’s needs for a successful routine.
Avoid these common mistakes and create a glass skin routine that fits you. This way, you’ll be on your way to the flawless, glowing skin you dream of.
Glass Skin FAQs: Expert Answers to Your Top Questions
Many of us dream of the Korean glass skin look. But, we often have questions about how to get it. As an esthetician, I’m here to share my expertise and clear up any confusion about this skincare trend.
Can People with Oily or Acne-Prone Skin Achieve Glass Skin?
Yes, you can achieve glass skin even if you have oily or acne-prone skin. The Korean glass skin routine can be adjusted for different skin types. It’s all about keeping your skin hydrated and repairing its barrier.
While those with oily or acne-prone skin might need to tweak some steps, like exfoliation, the core of the routine works for everyone. It’s about finding the right balance for your skin.
How Long Does It Take to See Results?
You’ll likely see your skin looking better in 1-3 weeks if you stick to the glass skin routine. But, the full effects might take a few months. Building a strong skin barrier and improving cell turnover takes time.
So, be patient and keep up with your routine. The results will be worth it.
Do I Need to Follow All 10 Steps Every Day?
No, you don’t have to do all 10 steps every day. Focus on the most important steps and adjust based on your skin and schedule. This way, you can make the routine work for you, not against you.
Getting glass skin is a journey, not a quick fix. By following the key steps and listening to your skin, you’ll get there. And when you do, you’ll have a radiant, healthy glow.
Conclusion: Your Path to Korean Glass Skin Starts Today
Getting the Korean glass skin look is possible with the right skincare and lifestyle. Follow the 10 steps in this guide for a flawless, dewy skin. Remember, building up your skin’s barrier and turnover takes time.
Boost your skincare with a healthy lifestyle. Drink plenty of water, sleep well, and manage stress for lasting results. Korean skincare can transform your skin into a luminous, poreless glow.
Your journey to Korean glass skin begins today. With the right knowledge and commitment, you can have radiant, healthy skin. Let’s start your journey to flawless, glowing skin!
