The “glass skin” trend, which originated in South Korea, continues to captivate the beauty world in 2024. Known for its radiant, dewy finish, the glass skin look embodies smooth, poreless, and luminous skin that reflects light just like a piece of glass. This coveted skincare routine is more than just a trend—it’s a ritual that focuses on deep hydration, layering products, and commitment to achieving flawless skin.
But what exactly is “glass skin,” and how do you achieve it? In this blog, we’ll break down the steps, dive into the science behind the products, and recommend trending skincare lines to help you master the glass skin look in 2024.
What Is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is a term used to describe skin that looks so healthy and hydrated, it appears translucent, smooth, and glowing. Achieving this look isn’t just about applying a few skincare products. It’s about following a multi-step regimen that focuses on hydration, exfoliation, and moisture, allowing the skin to be as smooth, bright, and plump as possible.
At its core, glass skin is about balance—balancing oil production, hydration, and the skin barrier to create a luminous finish. It’s not about makeup or artificial glow but about achieving a natural radiance through consistent and proper skincare.
The Science Behind Glass Skin Products
Achieving glass skin relies heavily on hydration and moisture retention. Skin experts point to the importance of a well-hydrated epidermis, which keeps the outer layer of the skin plump and smooth. Humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin play a crucial role in drawing moisture from the air into the skin, while occlusives (like squalane or shea butter) lock that moisture in.
Additionally, exfoliation and skin barrier support are essential in keeping the skin clear and smooth. Ingredients like AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) gently exfoliate dead skin cells, while ceramides and niacinamide work to restore and fortify the skin’s protective barrier.
How to Achieve the Glass Skin Look: The Step-by-Step Routine
- Double Cleansing
The foundation of any Korean skincare routine starts with double cleansing to ensure your skin is completely clean without stripping it of essential moisture. Start with an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil, followed by a water-based cleanser to get rid of dirt, sweat, and impurities.
Recommended Products:
- Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
- COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
2. Exfoliation
Exfoliating is essential to remove dead skin cells that can dull your complexion. You can use either a chemical exfoliant like an AHA or BHA for gentle exfoliation or a physical exfoliator for occasional deep cleansing. However, it’s crucial to avoid over-exfoliation, as it can damage the skin’s barrier.
Recommended Products:
- Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
- Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
3. Toner
After cleansing and exfoliating, toners help balance the skin’s pH and provide an initial layer of hydration. Look for toners that are alcohol-free and packed with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
Recommended Products:
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- Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
- Laneige Cream Skin Refiner
4. Essence
Essences are the heart of the glass skin routine. They are lightweight, highly concentrated products designed to deeply hydrate and prime the skin for the following steps. They sink deep into the skin to boost hydration and smooth texture.
Recommended Products:
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- COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
- Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
5. Serum
Serums are where you can customize your routine based on your skin’s needs. To achieve glass skin, opt for hydrating serums that contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C (for brightening), or niacinamide (to reduce the appearance of pores and improve skin texture).
Recommended Products:
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- The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
- Glow Recipe Pineapple-C Bright Serum
6. Moisturizer
Locking in all that hydration is key to achieving smooth, glass-like skin. Look for lightweight yet deeply moisturizing creams that won’t clog your pores. Gel-based moisturizers are a great option for layering without feeling heavy.
Recommended Products:
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- Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
- Dr. Jart+ Ceramidin Cream
7. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is non-negotiable in any skincare routine, especially for glass skin. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays, prevents premature aging, and helps maintain an even skin tone. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher.
Recommended Products:
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- Purito Centella Green Level Unscented Sun SPF 50+
- Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Additional Tips for Achieving Glass Skin
While following the steps above is essential, there are other habits you can adopt to help you achieve the ultimate glass skin look:
- Hydrate from the inside out: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
- Use a humidifier: Keeping the air around you moist can help prevent your skin from drying out.
- Sheet masks: Incorporating a weekly hydrating sheet mask into your routine can give your skin an extra glow boost.
- Sleep and lifestyle: Proper sleep and a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants will help improve skin health.
Trending Skincare Lines for Glass Skin in 2024
- Glow Recipe
Known for its fruit-infused formulations, Glow Recipe is a go-to brand for those seeking that dewy glow. Their Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask and Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum are favorites for locking in moisture. - Laneige
Laneige’s Water Bank collection, with its deep hydration-focused products, is another top pick for achieving glass skin. Their Water Sleeping Mask and Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer are beloved for delivering long-lasting hydration. - Dr. Jart+
Known for barrier-repairing products, Dr. Jart+ offers options like the Ceramidin Cream, which fortifies the skin barrier while deeply hydrating. Their Vital Hydra Solution Sheet Mask is another favorite for adding a burst of moisture. - COSRX
For simple, effective, and affordable skincare, COSRX offers powerful products like the Advanced Snail Mucin Essence and Hyaluronic Acid Intensive Cream that focus on hydration and skin repair.
The glass skin trend is more than just a fleeting beauty obsession. It’s a skincare philosophy that prioritizes hydration, luminosity, and overall skin health. While the multi-step routine might seem overwhelming, each step plays a crucial role in achieving that smooth, reflective complexion. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a beginner, the journey to glass skin can be tailored to your needs and preferences. Just remember—the key is consistency and patience.
By following these steps and incorporating high-quality products into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to achieving that coveted glass skin glow in 2024.