Before getting into our step-by-step regimen, let’s first understand what Korean glass skin really is and how it came to be such a beauty trend around the world.
Glass skin describes skin that is so clear, smooth and shiny, it looks almost transparent like glass. The goal is to have a poreless, glowing, radiant complexion that reflects light like an polished surface, and no – it’s not a reach! It can be accomplished with the right skin care!
In Korean skin care, the mantra for skin care is about creating health and hydration rather than covering up imperfections, therefore the first steps of hydration, exfoliation and brightening are most important. When taken as a whole, every step or category works in unison to achieve overall health, and leave you with fresh, dewy, glowing skin.
The premise seems simple; instead of looking for the quick fix, focus on nourishing the skin from within. If you have the right products to achieve a Korean skin care for glass skin regimen, an exhausted or dull skin can transform into awake, radiant, and natural glow.
Why Korean Glass Skin Products Are So Popular
Why Is Glass Skin So Popular?
The popularity of glass skin comes with the increased popularity of Korean skincare. If you have been on social media recently, you will likely have been overloaded with posts, reels, and tutorials on glass skin. People love this trend because it is meant to showcase a complexion that looks youthful, smooth, radiant, and naturally healthy.
Another reason glass skin is so popular is that it suits the no-makeup makeup look perfectly. Instead of fussing about thick layers of cumbersome foundation and makeup, glass skin allows your fresh, glowing skin to be the hero of your beauty routine!
What Are the Characteristics of Glass Skin?
Glass skin is more than just shiny skin: it signifies an overall good skin health. Here are the characteristics of it;
Smooth Texture
When we refer to glass skin, we are initially referring to a soft, smooth surface that appears virtually poreless. Everyone has pores as they are a natural and key part of skin, however we must strive to stagnate or make them appear less visible. The size of pores is largely hereditary, however with the right skincare (cleansing correctly, exfoliating, hydrating) they can appear smaller and less noticeable in general.
Even Skin Tone
Glass skin has no dullness, redness or dark spots. Clear, even skin tones bring a fresh and glowing look to the face without heavy makeup.
Hydrated & Dewy Glow
The most noticeable characteristic of glass skin would be the hydrated level of the skin. Properly moisturized, plump skin, will naturally reflect light and cause the dewy, healthy glass skin we know and love. This is why hydrating toners, essences and serums are a must in any Korean skincare regimen.
How to Choose the Right Glass Skin Products
- When selecting the right Korean Glass Skin items, you must start with knowing your skin type and needs. Not all products will work for all users, so it is crucial to select ingredients that align with your skin goals.
- If you have dry skin, seek products that will deeply hydrate and lock in moisture.
- If you have oily skin, select light-weight, non-greasy products to balance oil levels without clogging pores.
- If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, select soothing, non-comedogenic options & comforting ingredients that won’t irritate skin.
- And of course, don’t forget your broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) for protecting your glow from the damaging UV rays of the sun!
Key Ingredients to Look For
Here are some powerful ingredients commonly found in Korean Glass Skin products that can help you achieve that radiant, dewy look:
- Hyaluronic Acid – Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin, making it look soft and bouncy.
- Niacinamide – Improves uneven skin tone, reduces redness, and helps control excess oil.
- Vitamin C – Brightens dull skin and fades dark spots or pigmentation.
- Snail Mucin – Repairs skin, smooths texture, and keeps it hydrated.
- Centella Asiatica (Cica) / Green Tea Extract – Soothes irritation, reduces inflammation, and provides antioxidant protection.
- Salicylic Acid (BHA)—Exfoliates dead skin cells, clears out pores, and helps fight acne.
Top 10 Korean Glass Skin Products for a Flawless Glow
Achieving the famous korean glass skin look doesn’t require magic—it’s all about choosing the right products. Here are 10 of the best K-beauty products that can help you get smooth, radiant, and dewy skin.
Gentle Cleanser – COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser
This cult-favorite cleanser is gentle, pH-balanced, and perfect for all skin types. It removes dirt, excess oil, and impurities without stripping away natural moisture, making it an ideal first step for a glass skin routine.
Hydrating Toner – Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner
A hydrating toner is essential to prep the skin. This one from Klairs is fragrance-free, soothing, and packed with amino acids to balance pH levels while giving your skin a boost of hydration.
Essence – Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
Known as a holy grail essence, this product is rich in fermented yeast extract that helps improve skin texture, brighten dull skin, and deeply hydrate—perfect for achieving that glass-like glow.
