In today’s beauty landscape, the term “glass skin” has become synonymous with a complexion that is flawlessly dewy, intensely hydrated, and so radiant it almost seems translucent. This trend—born from Korean skincare rituals—has taken over social media, inspiring countless routines and product recommendations. In this article, we break down what glass skin is, its origins, and how you can achieve this coveted look at home. We’ll also dive into a secret routine shared in a popular YouTube video, “My Secret Korean Skincare Tips for R.E.A.L Glass Skin,” which reveals the specific products that helped the creator achieve her luminous glow.
What Is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is all about creating a clean, even, and intensely hydrated complexion. It’s not about masking imperfections with heavy makeup; instead, it’s about nurturing your skin from within. The look is characterized by:
- Luminosity: A dewy, reflective glow.
- Smooth Texture: A refined, almost poreless finish.
- Hydration: Deep, lasting moisture that makes the skin appear plump and healthy.
The trend has its roots in the meticulous, multi-step Korean skincare routines that emphasize gentle cleansing, hydration, and protection.
The Origins of the Trend
The glass skin phenomenon emerged from the Korean beauty (K-beauty) culture, where achieving healthy, hydrated skin is a way of life. Traditional Korean routines often include double cleansing, toning, layering essences and serums, and never skipping sunscreen. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have amplified the trend by featuring influencers and skincare experts who demonstrate step-by-step routines and product tips that are accessible to everyone.
Step-by-Step Glass Skin Routine
Achieving glass skin is more about consistency and proper layering than using heavy, occlusive products. Here’s a simplified routine:
- Double Cleansing:
Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and impurities, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser to remove any residue. - Exfoliation:
Use a gentle exfoliator (chemical or mild physical) a few times a week to remove dead skin cells, allowing your skin to better absorb hydrating products. - Toning & Essences:
A hydrating toner preps the skin and balances pH, while an essence delivers concentrated moisture and active ingredients. - Serum & Ampoules:
Choose a lightweight serum packed with hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants to target specific concerns like dullness or fine lines. - Moisturizer:
Seal in all the hydration with a moisturizer that contains ceramides, glycerin, or squalane to maintain a dewy finish. - Sunscreen:
Always finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage, preserving your glow and preventing premature aging. - Optional Mask Treatments:
Incorporate sheet masks or overnight masks 1–3 times a week to boost hydration and enhance radiance.
Products to Achieve the Look
In the YouTube video, My Secret Korean Skincare Tips for R.E.A.L Glass Skin, the creator walks through her personal routine, revealing the products that helped her achieve that coveted glass skin look. Here’s a list of the standout products:
- Hydrating Gel Cleanser
A gentle cleanser that emulsifies into a translucent lather, effectively removing makeup and impurities without stripping the skin.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4kNyDqx - Dew Treatment Essence
A hydrating essence packed with multiple forms of hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, perfect for balancing pH and prepping the skin.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4ir46NJ - All-In-One Moisture Pads
These convenient, essence-soaked pads deliver a burst of hydration and simplify the layering process in your routine.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4ivw9eU - Glass Skin Refining Serum
A fast-absorbing serum enriched with hyaluronic acid, fatty acids, vitamins, peptides, and minerals that help plump and refine the skin.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/41LAxPT - Barrier Repair Cream
An antioxidant-rich moisturizer that leaves the skin with a bouncy, dewy finish.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4kNmhyG - Eye Essence
A delicate eye cream designed to firm and hydrate the under-eye area without tugging the skin.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4htDqux - Luxe Oil
A lightweight, cold-pressed oil blend that reinforces your skin barrier while delivering antioxidants.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4hxOHtQ - Sunscreen SPF 50
A non-greasy sunscreen that protects your skin from UV rays while maintaining a luminous, glass-like glow.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4iNllbR - Cleansing Oil
Used in the evening, this oil cleanser melts away makeup and environmental impurities for a fresh canvas.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4iGc4SS - Peach & Lily Super Reboot Resurfacing Mask
An exfoliating mask that uses a blend of glycolic acid to clear dead skin cells and reveal a smoother texture.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4kSKPqe - Peach & Lily Original Glow Sheet Mask
A hydrating sheet mask that, when applied overnight or for a few hours, leaves your skin plump, refined, and irresistibly radiant.
Shop here: https://amzn.to/4htEDC5
These products, many from Peach & Lily and Tatcha, are celebrated in the K-beauty community for their ability to deliver hydration, repair, and a natural radiance—the building blocks of true glass skin.
Tips for Achieving and Maintaining Glass Skin
- Consistency Is Key:
Stick to your routine daily. Glass skin isn’t achieved overnight—it’s the result of regular, mindful skincare. - Focus on Hydration:
Use products rich in humectants (like hyaluronic acid and glycerin) and lock in moisture with ceramides and oils. - Customize Your Routine:
Adapt the number of steps and specific products to suit your skin type. For instance, sensitive skin might need fewer active exfoliating products. - Lifestyle Matters:
Remember that good skin is also a reflection of overall health. Prioritize a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress management. - Layering Technique:
Apply your products in order from thinnest to thickest to ensure maximum absorption without overwhelming your skin.
Final Thoughts
Glass skin is more than just a trend—it’s a philosophy of skincare that champions health, hydration, and self-care. By adopting a consistent multi-step routine and choosing the right products, you can achieve a luminous, youthful complexion that truly looks as if it’s been polished to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned K-beauty fan or just starting out, the products featured in the video provide a great roadmap to get you on your way to achieving your very own R.E.A.L glass skin.
Have you tried any of these products or techniques? Share your experiences in the comments below and pin your favorite skincare tips on our Pinterest board!