How To Get Glass Skin In 10 Steps

What Is Glass Skin?

“It’s glowy, hydrated, reflective skin that is so luminous it could be modelled from glass,” content creator Ola succinctly sums up. There is one thing we need to clear up though, the term ‘Korean glass skin’ is often used, but it’s very much a western description. In Korea, the glass skin finish is largely referred to as ‘bouncy skin’, ‘clear skin’, and ‘luminous skin’. For the sake of simplicity with this feature though, we’ll use glass skin.

How To Get Glass Skin

Glass skin is all about skin health. “Ensuring that your skin barrier is well looked after is key,” says Ola. “Effective and non-stripping cleansers, gentle exfoliating products, hydrating toners and serums, followed by fatty ceramides and of course sun protection are all part of the glass skin routine.” Applying moisture onto your skin in lots of light layers is key to achieving that glassy rather than greasy finish. So, ditch your heavy cream, here are the featherlight glass skin products we really rate and the order you need to apply them.

The ultimate Korean Skincare Routine for Glass Skin

If you love the sound of healthy, hydrated, radiant-looking skin, you’ll want to add some of these steps into your lineup. But the typical 10-step Korean skincare might not feel achievable. You can adapt the regimen and start by introducing the steps that feel right for you.

Step 1 & 2: Double cleanse

Double cleansing is the backbone to the Korean skincare routine, removing makeup and impurities to create a clean canvas. Start with an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing balm to break down your makeup – we recommend Then I Met You Living Cleansing Balm, £14.00. Follow up with a gentle foam or cream cleanser, depending on your skin type. Dr. Jart+ Pore Remedy Renewing Foam Cleanser, £21.00 is our go-to.

Step 3: Exfoliate

This step is optional based on what your skin needs. If you have combination to oily skin, you’ll benefit from using a gentle exfoliating toner, such as Then I Met You Birch Milk Refining Toner, £34.00 each day. Those with dry, sensitive skin should incorporate this step once or twice a week depending on how your complexion feels.

Step 4 & 5: Toner and essence

While toner might not be as common in Western skincare routines, it’s essential in the K-Beauty method. We are huge fans of the LANEIGE Cream Skin Cerapeptide™ Toner & Moisturizer, £29.50 as it removes all traces of your cleanser and gives your skin a hit of hydration. Follow up with an essence, which is the ideal step in between cleansing and treating the skin. An essence is like a primer for your skincare. If you haven’t used one before, we recommend starting with as it leaves your skin feeling super soft.

Step 6: Serums and treatments

Customise this step and choose the serums and treatments best suited to your skin concerns. If hydration is your main goal, choose a hyaluronic acid or niacinamide serum. Those hoping to ease acne and blemishes should opt for a salicylic acid serum. It’s about choosing what works for your skin. Some of our favourite Korean serums include Erborian Ginseng Super Serum, £40.00 or LANEIGE Glowy Makeup Serum, £25.00

Step 7: Sheet mask

Not everyone has the time, but using a sheet mask can help maximise your skin’s hydration levels. Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber So Cool Duo, £22.00 is like a glass of water for dry and dehydrated skin and it’s our go-to when our skin is feeling extra sensitive or dehydrated.

Step 8 & 9: Eye cream and moisturiser

Finish off with the best eye cream and moisturiser for your skin to lock in the hydration. We love , which is supercharged with hyaluronic acid. For the best beauty sleep, you can layer with the – expect to wake up with fresh, baby skin. In the morning, the brand new Then I Met You Bong² Bounce Cream, £17.00 will leave your skin feeling so soft and supple, without being too heavy. If your skin tends to get a bit dry and you like something richer, the Then I Met You Renewing Rich Beauty Cream, £20.00 was made for you.

Step 10: SPF in the morning

Korean sunscreens are having their moment. Their light and airy textures, easily blendable formulas are getting a lot of praise on social. Always make sure to apply sunscreen as the last step of your morning routine to protect your skin from UV rays. Wearing SPF everyday will help support all the skincare efforts you made the night before. We've been loving Innisfree Daily UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30, £17.00, which doubles perfectly as your everyday moisturiser.

Our Verdict On Glass Skin

Glass skin requires a solid and consistent skincare routine and if, like me, you don’t have 30 minutes to set aside every morning, it might not be one for you. That’s not to say you have to give up all hope of enjoying a healthy glow. This can still be achieved with a good skincare routine. Rather than adopting all eight steps, I’ll stick with my cleanser, serum, face oil and SPF and use the remaining 25 minutes to enjoy life and do something that feeds my soul because the way I see it, no glow, not even one aided by sheet masks and toners, can beat the one that comes from within.

If you're interested in this beauty trend though, you might be equally as taken with the glass hair trend too - you might have seen it on your Instagram already.