Glass skin—the skincare goal everyone dreams of—originates from Korean beauty rituals, emphasizing hydrated, luminous, and poreless-looking skin.
While it may seem unattainable, achieving glass skin is possible with consistent habits, the right routine, and a bit of patience.
Let’s explore the step-by-step guide to getting that radiant, “glass-like” glow using trendy techniques and smart skincare habits.
Step 1: Master the Double Cleansing (DAILY)
The secret to clear, radiant skin starts with a double cleanse. This method involves first removing makeup, sunscreen, and oil-based impurities with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a water-based cleanser to wash away dirt and sweat.
Why? A thorough cleanse ensures your pores stay clear, creating a smooth base for the rest of your routine.
How? Begin with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve stubborn makeup and sunscreen. Massage it into your skin for 30–60 seconds, focusing on areas like your T-zone. Rinse off and follow with a gentle, water-based gel or cream cleanser to clear away sweat and dirt. This ensures no residue is left behind.
Remember: Focus on gentle, hydrating cleansers to avoid stripping your skin’s natural barrier.
Step 2: Exfoliation Is Key (2-3 TIMES A WEEK)
Why? Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, which can dull your complexion. Opt for chemical exfoliation with AHAs or BHAs, which are gentler than physical scrubs and penetrate deeper into the skin.
How? After cleansing, use a chemical exfoliant like a toner or serum with AHAs or BHAs. Apply it with a cotton pad or your hands, focusing on areas prone to dullness or clogged pores, like your nose and chin. If you have sensitive skin, use a PHA-based exfoliant to minimize irritation.
Remember: Over-exfoliating can cause irritation, so balance it with hydrating products.
Step 3: Hydration, Hydration, Hydration (DAILY)
Why? A hydrated base is crucial for achieving the “glass” effect. Hydrating products improve elasticity, minimize fine lines, and create a soft, dewy finish.
How? After exfoliating, pour a hydrating toner or essence into your palms and pat it onto your face and neck. Go for 1–2 layers, especially if your skin feels tight or dry. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid or fermented extracts work wonders for deep hydration.
Remember: For an added glow, use a mist toner and spray it evenly over your face before layering additional products.
Step 4: Layering Serums for the Glow (DAILY)
Why? Serums are the powerhouse of your routine, addressing hydration, brightening, or texture concerns. Layer lightweight serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Each layer builds hydration and brightness, giving your skin that lit-from-within glow.
How?
- When combining serums, start with the thinnest (usually hydrating) serum first, and finish with the thickest or most potent one (e.g., brightening or anti-aging serums). This allows each serum to be absorbed properly and maximizes its effectiveness.
- After applying each serum, let it absorb for 30 seconds to a minute before moving to the next one. This helps prevent pilling and ensures each product penetrates the skin fully.
- Avoid mixing more than 2 or 3 serums at a time. Keep your routine simple.
Remember: Keep your routine simple and targeted. Focus on addressing one or two concerns at a time (e.g., hydration + brightening) instead of mixing too many active ingredients. Certain ingredients should not be mixed together, as they may cause irritation or reduce the effectiveness of the products.
Step 5: Moisturize to Seal It In (DAILY)
Why? A nourishing moisturizer locks in hydration and smooths the skin’s surface. For a glass-skin look, choose lightweight, dewy moisturizers that add a luminous finish without feeling heavy.
How? Use a pea-sized amount of moisturizer and gently massage it into your skin. For dry skin, choose a thicker cream; for oily or combination skin, opt for a gel or lightweight lotion. Pay extra attention to drier areas, like the sides of your nose or cheeks.
Remember: Don’t skip moisturizer even if you have oily skin—it helps maintain balance and prevents overproduction of oil.
Step 6: Protect with Sunscreen (DAILY)
Why? Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step. UV damage can cause hyperpigmentation and dullness, which are the biggest enemies of glass skin. Apply SPF daily, even if you’re staying indoors, to protect your hard work.
How? Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher as the final step in your morning routine. Use a generous amount (about 2–3 fingers’ length) and reapply every 2–3 hours if you’re outdoors. For a natural look, wear a lightweight sunscreen that doubles as a primer under makeup.
Remember: Use a lightweight SPF that won’t clog pores or feel greasy.
Bonus Habits to Try
- Slugging. This viral trend involves applying a thin layer of occlusive (like petroleum jelly) at night to lock in moisture. Perfect for dry or dehydrated skin types.
- Face Massage. Techniques like gua sha or face yoga improve blood circulation and help depuff your skin, giving you that fresh glow.
- Humidifiers. Add moisture to the air in your home to prevent your skin from drying out, especially in colder months.
- Hydration from Within. Drink plenty of water and eat water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges for that extra boost. Also, remember to incorporate some superfoods into your daily routine for clear and healthy skin.
Sample Routine for Different Skin Types
For Oily Skin:
- Double cleanse with oil-free cleansers.
- Exfoliate with a BHA-based product 2–3 times a week.
- Use lightweight, gel-based moisturizers and mattifying SPF.
For Dry Skin:
- Opt for a cream cleanser and hydrating toner.
- Exfoliate gently with an AHA once a week.
- Choose thick, nourishing creams and add an occlusive layer at night.
For Combination Skin:
- Use a balanced cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin.
- Exfoliate with a mix of AHA and BHA products.
- Spot-moisturize drier areas and use lightweight products for oil-prone zones.
For Sensitive Skin:
- Stick to fragrance-free, gentle cleansers.
- Exfoliate sparingly with a PHA (gentler than AHA/BHA).
- Choose calming ingredients like ceramides or Centella asiatica in your moisturizer.
Achieving glass skin isn’t just about using the right products; it’s about consistency, mindfulness, and building habits that nurture your skin. Whether you’re following the trends or keeping it simple, the glow is within reach—literally.
Viral Product Recommendations to Try
If you’re ready to take your glass skin routine to the next level, here are some popular products loved by skincare enthusiasts:
- Cleansers: Banila Co Clean It Zero Balm (oil-based) and CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser (water-based).
- Exfoliants: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant or Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow PHA + BHA Pore-Tight Toner
- Essences: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence.
- Serums: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5, Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Serum, or Beauty of Joseon Deep Glow Serum: Rice + Arbutin.
- Moisturizers: Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream, Laneige Water Bank Cream, or Bioma Skin Barrier Renewing Moisturizer.
- SPF: Beauty of Joseon Sun Relief Rice & Probiotics SPF 50 Sunscreen or La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen.
Achieving glass skin is about consistency and care, not perfection. By following this step-by-step routine, you’re well on your way to achieving radiant, healthy skin that turns heads everywhere.
Are you ready to glow? Start your journey today!
