Few beauty trends capture attention like the glass skin phenomenon. This Korean beauty ideal, now embraced in the West, emphasizes radiant, clear skin that resembles polished glass. Similar to the moisture sandwich approach, it focuses on layering products, a skill that aestheticians excel at. To help you achieve glass skin naturally at home, we consulted three skincare experts.
Experts Kaitlynn Kerrigan, renowned aesthetic nurse practitioner, celebrity aesthetician Natalie Aguilar, and Dallas aesthetician Savanna Boda share essential insights on this trending aesthetic and the best products to use to attain that sought-after glass skin look.
Featured image by Belathée Photography
Why is the Glass Skin Trend So Popular Right Now?
Not long ago, achieving a matte finish was the norm, with countless products aimed at eliminating shine. Today, a healthy, dewy glow signifies hydration and vitality. What caused this shift?
Aguilar notes, “Glass skin used to require professional treatments, but now, many excellent skincare products can help you achieve these effects at home.”
This look also photographs beautifully—think of it as your own natural filter.
Which Skin Types Benefit Most from Glass Skin?
Fortunately, this trend is beneficial for all skin types. However, individuals with normal or dry skin may find the hydrating properties of jelly-like moisturizers and serums particularly advantageous.
Steps to Achieve Glass Skin at Home
Considering its K-beauty roots, a glass skin routine is comprehensive and involves multiple hydrating layers alongside a transformative double cleanse. While there’s no one-size-fits-all method, our experts outline crucial steps suitable for every skin type.
Remember, “Many influencers achieving glass skin may be hydrated, incorporate topical antioxidants, and perhaps have had some neurotoxin treatments for that finishing touch,” Kerrigan adds.
1. Hydrating Double Cleanse
A K-beauty essential, double cleansing involves using two types of cleansers—an oil-based followed by a gentle hydrating one—for a thorough clean.
Post-cleansing, Aguilar suggests using a warm towel compression for three minutes. “Soak a towel in warm water and place it on your skin,” she says. “This softens the skin and slightly boosts circulation, resulting in a lovely rosy glow.”
Colleen Rothschild Radiant Cleansing Balm
This moringa oil cleansing balm effectively removes makeup, perfect for combination and acne-prone skin.
Doctor Rogers Restore Face Wash
This gentle option is ideal for sensitive skin, cleansing without leaving a dry feeling.
2. Exfoliation
Refine your skin by exfoliating, preferably at night, using your favorite exfoliant—whether it’s a mix of AHAs and BHAs or a physical scrub. If you choose the latter, look for a product enriched with antioxidants.
“Take your time to gently cover your face and neck,” Aguilar advises. “Slow and steady wins the race.”
ZO SKIN HEALTH Exfoliating Polish
This trusted physical exfoliant comes highly recommended by both Kaitlynn Kerrigan and myself.
3. Toner
This often-neglected step balances and prepares the skin for subsequent products while helping to minimize pores.
A staple from a well-known aesthetician, this toner is a reliable choice from her newly launched line.
Three Ships Awake Rose Hydrosol Toner
This budget-friendly toner features alcohol-free witch hazel to balance pH and minimize pores.
4. Serums
Choose hydrating and pore-minimizing serums for a smoother skin appearance.
Biologique Recherche’s Dermopore Serum
This beloved serum tightens pores and fosters a radiant glow.
Dr. Loretta Intense Replenishing Serum
This luxurious serum, enriched with glycolipids and ceramides, targets fine lines while leaving skin glowing.
5. Effective Moisturizers
Seal in hydration with a moisturizer that delivers a dewy, soft finish.
No7 HydraLuminous Water Surge Gel Cream
Aguilar endorses this lightweight cream that’s rich in antioxidants, including vitamins C and E.
If you prefer a thicker moisturizer, Kerrigan suggests this soothing cream featuring sodium hyaluronate to maintain hydration throughout the day.
SkinBetter Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment
Both Kerrigan and Boda recommend this award-winning moisturizer for day and night hydration.
6. Mist or Essence
Finish your routine with a hydrating mist or essence for the ultimate glow. Don’t forget a clear SPF in the morning.
Biologique Recherche’s L’Eauxygenante Facial Mist
This facial mist, favored by Aguilar, contains silk extract for a luminous finish.
This non-comedogenic sunscreen, infused with green tea and hyaluronic acid, protects your glow without leaving a chalky residue.
