Korean Glass Skin 101: The Blueprint You Need for a Flawless Complexion

Originating from South Korea, the trend of Korean glass skin has been widely popularized for providing smooth, radiant, and flawless skin. As you might know, the term "glass skin" is used to describe skin that looks clear, translucent, and as smooth as glass, with a natural, dewy, and almost poreless appearance.

The Korean Beauty movement seeded the popularity of this widely-known beauty trend. To achieve the flawless complexion promised by the trend, people often opt for this skincare routine. They follow a rigorous routine that focuses on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and a combination of products to enhance skin texture and brightness.

Korean glass skin prioritizes achieving a youthful, natural look rather than heavy makeup or full coverage. The goal is to enhance the skin's natural texture and luminosity. Many Korean skincare products emphasize the use of gentle, hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, snail mucin, glycerin, and natural extracts which boost moisture and promote skin health.

The Korean Glass Skincare Routine

Korean glass skin (Image via Getty Images)

Here is a detailed skincare routine that can help you get the much-desired hydrated shiny skin:

Morning routine

Cleansing: Begin your day with a refreshing cleanse. Opt for a gentle, sulfate-free water-based cleanser that suits your skin type, be it oily, dry, or sensitive.

Toner (hydrating): Choose a hydrating toner with skin-soothing ingredients like rose water or chamomile extract. Look for toners that are alcohol-free to prevent unnecessary dryness.

Essence or serum (hydrating): When selecting an essence or serum, consider those containing hyaluronic acid or glycerin for deep hydration. These ingredients help your skin retain moisture throughout the day.

Sheet mask (1-2 times a week): For sheet masks, go for ones with natural ingredients like aloe vera or green tea. Ensure they're free from harsh chemicals and fit well on your face for maximum effectiveness.

Eye cream: Pick an eye cream with lightweight yet nourishing ingredients like peptides or cucumber extract. Ensure it's ophthalmologist-tested and fragrance-free for delicate eye skin.

Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for your skin type. Look for one with ceramides or shea butter for hydration without causing breakouts.

Sunscreen: Prioritize broad-spectrum sunscreens with at least SPF 30. Choose products that offer both UVA and UVB protection and are designed for your skin type, whether oily, dry, or combination.

Evening routine

Makeup removal: Use a gentle, oil-based cleansing balm or micellar water for effective makeup removal. Ensure it's free of harsh sulfates or artificial fragrances to avoid irritation.

Double cleansing: Choose an oil-based cleanser with natural oils like jojoba or olive oil for the first step. Follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser appropriate for your skin type to remove any remaining impurities.

Exfoliation (2-3 times a week): Look for mild chemical exfoliants containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid for gentle yet effective exfoliation. Ensure it's specifically formulated for your skin type and concerns.

Toner (Hydrating): Stick with a hydrating toner that replenishes moisture. Opt for toners containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which will help maintain your skin's hydration balance.

Essence or Serum (Hydrating): Continue with a hydrating essence or serum. Ingredients like niacinamide or vitamin E can be beneficial. Select a product formulated without harsh irritants for overnight renewal.

Sheet Mask (1-2 times a week): For evening sheet masks, choose ones with calming ingredients like lavender or chamomile. Be mindful of your skin's needs and consider masks that target specific concerns.

Eye cream: Use a nourishing eye cream with ingredients like peptides or retinol for nighttime renewal. Ensure it's suitable for nightly use, and avoid any products with heavy fragrances.

Moisturizer: Opt for a slightly richer moisturizer than your daytime one. Ingredients like squalane or ceramides are great for nighttime hydration. Choose a product free of potential allergens or irritants.

Night cream or sleeping mask: Look for a night cream or sleeping mask with potent hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Consider products designed for intense overnight nourishment, but ensure they're non-comedogenic.

As you are already set to venture on the journey to achieve a glass-like skin texture, do not hesitate to consult with your dermatologist about any product if you are not sure about its suitability. Further, before introducing new products, a patch test is a must.

The Korean glass skin can surely be achieved with the right routine, but remember to drink water throughout the day to keep your skin nourished from within. You can also enjoy refreshing alternatives like herbal teas or water infused with lemon or cucumber.

Incorporate a diverse range of antioxidant-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to support your overall skin health. Consistency in your skincare routine is a golden rule, so dedicating yourself to the routine over time is the secret to achieving the Korean glass skin effect.