What is glass skin?

Glass skin is precisely as it appears: skin that is exceptionally smooth, uniformly toned, and
nearly flawless, resembling a finely polished piece of glass. This aesthetic is more about
achieving a radiant, healthy glow from within rather than the tactile sensation of the skin itself.
The desired appearance is accomplished through optimal moisture levels in the skin, which are
crucial for achieving the characteristic luminous and translucent glow.
While some individuals may naturally possess radiant skin, those of us seeking to attain this
look must rely on a blend of skincare ingredients that deeply hydrate while effectively exfoliating
dead skin cells. Employing multiple layers of various skincare products that are rich in
humectants, ceramides, and appropriate exfoliants is essential for cultivating a radiant glow in
the pursuit of glass skin.

How to Achieve Glass Skin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Double cleanse

The initial step in achieving glass skin is the double cleanse. This process involves first
cleansing the face with an oil, balm, or micellar cleanser, followed by a gel, cream, or foam
cleanser. This method effectively dissolves and eliminates dirt, oil, makeup, and other impurities
that build up on the skin during the day. Without establishing a clean foundation from the outset,
the subsequent skincare steps will not yield optimal results.

Step 2: Exfoliate

The removal of dead skin cells from the surface of the skin facilitates proper light reflection,
resulting in a radiant, healthy glow. Exfoliation stands out as the most effective method for
addressing the accumulation of these dead cells. Whether one opts for a physical exfoliant,
such as a scrub, or a chemical alternative that employs lactic or glycolic acids or enzymes, the
primary goal remains the same: to eliminate any substances that may obstruct pores and
diminish skin brightness, while also encouraging skin cell renewal, which naturally decreases
with age. It is important to avoid excessive or harsh exfoliation; instead, a mild exfoliator used
several times a week in the evening is generally adequate.

Step 3: Tone

Contemporary toners differ significantly from the alcohol-based, astringent varieties of previous
decades. Today’s formulations are designed to be refreshing and hydrating, contributing to the
balance of the skin’s pH levels. Numerous toners favored in K-beauty are abundant in
antioxidants and nourishing components, providing hydration and promoting a radiant
complexion. Furthermore, applying a toner post-cleansing guarantees that the skin is thoroughly
cleansed, allowing for optimal absorption of subsequent products.

Step 4: Add an essence

An essence, akin to a toner but resembling a lightweight serum, targets specific skin concerns
to achieve a uniform and luminous complexion reminiscent of glass skin. Certain essences are
formulated to reduce redness, while others focus on minimizing discoloration, all while providing
additional hydration. Applying an essence to the skin offers an extra layer of moisture.

Step 5: Treat with a serum or ampoule

Serums are skincare formulations that possess a higher concentration of active ingredients
compared to lotions and creams, providing a more effective treatment for the skin. When
incorporated into a comprehensive skincare regimen, the appropriate serum can enhance
nourishment and hydration, resulting in skin that appears plump, supple, resilient, and more
uniform in both tone and texture. It is advisable to select a serum that specifically addresses
your primary skincare concerns, ensuring that the skin appears more balanced and radiant
following its application.

Step 6: Moisturize

Although a multi-layered glass skincare routine may appear to be overly complicated, each layer
fulfills a distinct function. A suitable moisturizer, which is denser than the serums and essences
applied beforehand, aids in sealing moisture within the skin and retaining the benefits of the
other products, resulting in a radiant and healthy complexion. Key ingredients that provide
significant benefits include humectants, ceramides, glycerin, fatty acids, and botanical
hydrators, all of which contribute to the restoration of the skin barrier.

Step 7: Apply an eye cream

Achieving glass skin requires attention to the skin beneath and around the eyes. The eye area,
characterized by the thinnest and most sensitive skin on the face, is often drier and tends to be
the first region to exhibit signs of stress and fatigue. Therefore, utilizing appropriate eye creams
is essential for attaining the desired glass skin effect.

Step 8: Use SPF (daytime only)

Sunscreen is an essential component of any skincare regimen, particularly for achieving a glass
skin appearance. It plays a vital role in safeguarding the skin’s integrity against the harmful
effects of the sun, which can result in undesirable pigmentation, early signs of aging, and other
forms of sun damage. Lightweight sunscreens that do not leave a white residue can enhance
the skin’s radiance, contributing to a luminous and attractive complexion.

Step 9: Sheet Masks (Bonus step)

An additional step that can be incorporated into your nighttime glass skin regimen, instead of
applying sunscreen, is the use of a sheet mask. This is an excellent choice for a Sunday
self-care ritual or whenever you require a moment to unwind and rejuvenate while nourishing
your skin. Sheet masks deliver a surge of hydration in 20 minutes or less, providing an
immediate enhancement to your skin’s radiance.

Tips according to your skin type:

Sensitive skin: Sensitive skin is prone to irritation and may become red when exposed to
unsuitable products. Achieving the desired glass skin is still possible; however, it is essential to
select products that contain gentle, calming, and soothing ingredients appropriate for your skin
type. It is advisable to use mild, sulfate-free cleansers and formulations.

Oily and combination skin: Individuals with naturally oily skin should be cautious when selecting
hydrating products, as using inappropriate ones can lead to a greasy and shiny appearance. It
may be beneficial to omit certain hydrating steps based on your skin’s specific needs. For
instance, employing a hydrating toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, and oil simultaneously may
be excessive; therefore, it is advisable to streamline your routine as necessary. Additionally, it is
important to limit exfoliation to avoid potential harm to the skin.

Acne-prone skin: Individuals experiencing acne often believe that achieving glass skin is
unattainable due to the texture of their skin; however, this is a misconception. It is possible to
pursue clearer skin and the glass skin aesthetic by incorporating water-soluble products and
milder formulations containing anti-acne components to manage breakouts effectively. One
essential ingredient to seek in both your cleanser and exfoliator is salicylic acid, as it aids in
treating acne while also offering exfoliating properties