Glass Skin 101: The Everyday Korean Skin Care Routine You Need

Image Courtesy: Luxiface.com / MediTherapy

If you've been following skincare trends, you've most likely heard of the coveted term “glass skin.” Glass skin, which originated in South Korea, refers to a complexion so smooth, flawless, and translucent that it resembles the reflective quality of glass. It's all about having a deeply hydrated, dewy, and clear complexion that makes you look naturally radiant without makeup. 

Achieving glass skin isn’t an overnight process; it results from a consistent and thoughtful skincare regimen. Whether you’re a skincare newbie or a seasoned enthusiast, this guide will help you understand the steps and products needed to transform your skin into a luminous glow.

Step One: Double Cleanse

Double cleansing ensures that all makeup, dirt, and oil are removed, leaving your skin clean and ready for the next steps. 

Starting with an oil-based cleanser will break down any makeup, sunscreen, or an oil-based product. Massage it gently into your skin and then rinse with lukewarm water. Afterward, use a water-based cleanser to remove any sweat, dirt, or gunk remaining on your face. This second cleanser makes sure that there is absolutely nothing lingering in your pores. 

Step Two: Exfoliate

Exfoliation is a vital step to achieving glass skin. It will help you get rid of dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother, more radiant complexion. 

Tip: To avoid excessive exfoliation, use a mild exfoliator two to three times per week.

Step Three: Hydrating Toner 

Use a hydrating toner to balance your skin's pH and prepare it for the next steps. Toners help your skin absorb the products that follow. Look for toners that contain hyaluronic acid to help lock in moisture and create a smooth, dewy appearance. Pat it onto your skin gently with your hands or a cotton pad. 

Step Four: Serums 

Serums help with focusing on particular skin issues. To achieve glass skin, you should concentrate on hydration and brightening.

When it comes to hydrating serums, it’s best to look for products with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or panthenol. For brightening products, you should look for vitamin C and niacinamide. 

A good way to layer the serums is to apply the one with the thinnest consistency first, then let each layer absorb before moving on. 

Step Five: Moisturizer 

Moisturizer forms a barrier that protects the hydration in your skin and locks in all the moisture from your serums all day and night. It’s best to choose a gel or water-based moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy. Squalane, ceramides, and aloe vera are excellent moisture-binding ingredients that leave the skin feeling light and smooth. 

Step Six: Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an absolute must-have for any glass skin routine. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays to avoid premature aging and pigmentation. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and reapply throughout the day for protection. 

Bonus Tips: 

Incorporating a face mask into your routine can aid as an extra step to hydrating your skin. Face masks don’t need to be daily, but one to two times per week should suffice. 

More essentials to healthy skin are drinking plenty of water daily, having a healthy diet that includes foods rich in vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants, and getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night. 

When done right, these products will aid in achieving glass skin. However, glass skin is more than just the products; it's about consistency. Maintain your routine and be patient throughout the process. Results take time, and there might even be times when you need to make adjustments as your skin's needs change due to the seasons or other factors.

Strike Out,

Jessica Harris 

Boca Raton

Jessica Harris is a Content Writer for Strike Magazine Boca. As a proud introvert, she is described to be quiet but always up for challenges to get her out of her shell.  When not overworking herself with school and work, she’s nose deep in a book on her balcony, sobbing over Kdramas or constantly writing in hopes to publish a book. You can reach her at jessicaharris777@gmail.com.