As I was having brunch with my girls, we came to the topic of Korean glass skin. I mentioned to them I just started trying the method myself these past couple of weeks and I love how many compliments I get on how my skin looks.
If you’re someone who’s into skincare, you’ve probably heard of this trend. But if you’re new to the skincare game, don’t worry, I’m here to break it down for you.
So, what is Korean glass skin?
Korean glass skin is a term used to describe a complexion that’s so clear, hydrated, and luminous that it looks like glass. The goal of this trend is to achieve a flawless, dewy, and almost transparent complexion that reflects light, giving the skin a radiant glow. It’s a skincare routine that emphasizes hydration, nourishment, and protection, to give your skin a healthy and youthful appearance.
This beauty trend originated from South Korea, where skincare is taken very seriously, and people invest a lot of time and effort in taking care of their skin. The goal of Korean glass skin is to achieve a complexion that’s so clear and smooth that it looks like glass.
How Can You Achieve the Korean Glass Skin Look?
Achieving Korean glass skin involves a multi-step skincare routine that emphasizes hydration, exfoliation, and protection. The goal is to create a smooth, radiant complexion that looks like it’s been lit from within.
Here’s how YOU can achieve the look in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Double cleanse
The key to achieving glass skin is to start with a clean canvas. Double cleansing is a vital step in any Korean skincare routine, and it’s the first step to achieving glass skin.
Double cleansing involves using two different cleansers – an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup and impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to cleanse the skin thoroughly.
Step 2: Exfoliate
Exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine, and it’s particularly crucial for achieving glass skin.
Exfoliating removes dead skin cells, unclogs pores, and improves skin texture, leaving you with a smooth, glowing complexion. Opt for a gentle exfoliator and use it no more than twice a week.
Step 3: Toner
Toners help to balance your skin’s pH level and prep your skin for the rest of your skincare routine.
Choose a toner that is gentle and hydrating to achieve that glass-like finish, such a the Thayers Milky Hydrating Face Toner with Snow Mushroom, Hyaluronic Acid and Elderflower.
Step 4: Essence
Essence is a lightweight, hydrating liquid that penetrates deep into the skin to provide long-lasting hydration. Look for essences that contain hyaluronic acid or snail mucin, which can help to plump up the skin and improve its elasticity.
Step 5: Serum
Serums are concentrated formulas that target specific skin concerns. For glass skin, look for serums that contain vitamin C or niacinamide, which can help to brighten the skin and even out skin tone.
Step 6: Moisturize
Moisturizing is essential for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. Choose a moisturizer that is lightweight and absorbs quickly into the skin.
Look for ingredients like ceramides, which can help to strengthen your skin’s barrier and lock in moisture. I like TATCHA The Dewy Skin Cream. It locks in moisture all day long.
Step 7: Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the final step in your morning skincare routine. Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is crucial for maintaining a healthy, youthful complexion.
Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen that won’t leave a white cast, such as SuperGoop! Glowscreen. This sunscreen has an SPF of 40 with a glow primer that adds an instant glow to your skin and add an extra hydration boost.
Do You Have To Use Korean Skincare Products to Achieve the Look?
This Korean beauty trend is all about achieving a flawless, radiant complexion that looks as smooth and transparent as glass.
But is it really necessary to use Korean skincare products to achieve this coveted look? Let’s explore this question in more detail.
First, let’s take a closer look at what “glass skin” actually means. The term refers to skin that appears so clear and luminous that it looks like a piece of glass.
To achieve this look, you need to focus on hydrating and nourishing your skin, so that it appears plump and healthy.
This can be achieved through a variety of skincare products and techniques, many of which are popular in Korean skincare routines.
Korean skincare products have gained a reputation for being highly effective, with many people crediting them with helping to achieve glass skin.
Some of the most popular Korean skincare products include hydrating toners, essences, serums, and sheet masks.
These products are often formulated with natural ingredients like green tea, rice extract, and snail mucin, which are known for their hydrating and nourishing properties.
So, do you need to use Korean skincare products to achieve glass skin? The answer is no.
While Korean skincare products can be highly effective, there are many other products and techniques that can help you achieve a glowing complexion.
The key is to focus on hydrating and nourishing your skin, regardless of the specific products you use.
Here are a few tips to help you achieve glass skin, without necessarily using Korean skincare products:
- Focus on hydration. Drinking plenty of water and using hydrating skincare products can help plump up your skin and give it a dewy, radiant look.
- Exfoliate regularly. Regular exfoliation can help remove dead skin cells and reveal fresh, smooth skin.
- Use a gentle cleanser. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that will leave your skin feeling soft and supple.
- Use a moisturizer. A good moisturizer can help lock in moisture and keep your skin looking hydrated and plump.
Factors Beyond the Skin
While skincare routines play a significant role in achieving glass skin, there are other factors that contribute to this flawless look. Let’s take a closer look at what those factors are.
Diet
As the saying goes, “You are what you eat,” and this couldn’t be truer when it comes to your skin. Your skin reflects what’s going on inside your body, so it’s essential to have a healthy and balanced diet to achieve that coveted glass skin.
Eating foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and leafy greens, can help fight off free radicals that can damage your skin.
On the other hand, consuming too much sugar, alcohol, and processed foods can lead to inflammation, which can result in breakouts and dull skin.
Hydration
Drinking enough water is vital for overall health, but it’s especially important for achieving glass skin.
Hydration is the key to achieving that plump, dewy look that we all crave. When your skin is dehydrated, it can appear dull, dry, and lackluster.
Make sure to drink at least eight glasses of water a day and incorporate hydrating products into your skincare routine, such as hydrating serums and moisturizers.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep is crucial for your overall health and well-being, but it’s also essential for achieving glass skin.
When you’re sleep-deprived, your skin can appear dull, and you may notice more puffiness and dark circles under your eyes.
Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help your skin repair and regenerate.
Stress
Stress is a part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on your skin. Chronic stress can lead to inflammation, which can cause breakouts and premature aging.
Finding ways to manage your stress, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature, can help you achieve that glass skin glow.
Makeup
Makeup can be a powerful tool in achieving glass skin. Using a luminous primer, lightweight foundation, and highlighter can help create a flawless, radiant complexion.
For luminous primer, I love the e.l.f. luminous primer. It just gives me such a radiant glow. And of course, my favorite go-to highlighter, the Becca Champagne Pop highlighter. It’s an absolute chef’s kiss.
Be sure to choose makeup products that are non-comedogenic and won’t clog your pores.
Consistency
Lastly, achieving glass skin requires consistency. It’s not a one-time thing, but a lifestyle. You need to follow a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating, and protecting your skin from the sun.
Make sure to use products that work for your skin type and stick to your routine even when you’re busy or tired.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, Korean glass skin is all about achieving a flawless, radiant complexion through a consistent, multi-step skincare routine.
By prioritizing hydration, exfoliation, and protection, you too can achieve the coveted glass-like skin that’s become a global phenomenon.
If you want to try this trend, start by incorporating hydrating products into your skincare routine and adopting a healthy lifestyle.
With patience and consistency, you’ll be on your way to achieving the coveted Korean glass skin.