Introduction
The term "glass skin" has taken the beauty world by storm, referring to a clear, luminous, and intensely hydrated complexion that looks almost translucent—just like glass. Originating from Korean skincare, this coveted look isn’t achieved overnight. It requires consistent skincare, deep hydration, and a strong barrier function.
At Esoteric, we believe that healthy skin is the key to beauty, and achieving glass skin is possible for everyone, regardless of skin type. In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down what glass skin is, the steps to achieving it, and the best products to incorporate into your routine.
What is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is characterized by:
✔ A smooth, even skin texture – No bumps, dry patches, or roughness.
✔ Extreme hydration – Skin looks plump and dewy, never tight or dry.
✔ Natural glow – A radiance that comes from within, rather than from highlighters or makeup.
✔ Minimized pores – Pores appear refined and less visible.
This look isn’t about applying layers of highlighter—it’s about truly healthy skin that glows from deep within.
Step-by-Step Routine to Achieve Glass Skin
Achieving glass skin requires a multi-step routine that focuses on hydration, gentle exfoliation, and deep nourishment.
Step 1: Double Cleansing – The Foundation of Clear Skin
Cleansing is the first and most important step in any skincare routine. For glass skin, the double cleansing method is a must.
✔ Oil-Based Cleanser – Removes sunscreen, makeup, and excess sebum without stripping moisture.
✔ Water-Based Cleanser – Gently cleanses dirt, sweat, and leftover impurities.
💡 Pro Tip: Massage your oil cleanser for at least 60 seconds to dissolve buildup completely.
Best Ingredients for Cleansing:
🔹 Green Tea – Soothes and reduces redness.
🔹 Rice Water – Brightens and hydrates.
🔹 Jojoba Oil – Deep cleanses without clogging pores.
Step 2: Exfoliation – Removing Dead Skin Cells for a Smooth Surface
Exfoliation removes dead skin, allowing hydration to penetrate better. But forget harsh scrubs—gentle exfoliation is key for glass skin.
✔ Chemical Exfoliants (AHAs & BHAs) – Help to unclog pores and smooth texture.
✔ Enzyme Peels – A gentle way to brighten and renew skin.
💡 Best Ingredients for Exfoliation:
🔹 Lactic Acid – Hydrates while exfoliating.
🔹 Salicylic Acid – Great for acne-prone skin.
🔹 Papaya Enzymes – Brightens and resurfaces gently.
Step 3: Hydrating Toner – Prepping the Skin for Maximum Absorption
Toners help restore skin's pH balance and prep it for the rest of your routine. The best toners for glass skin are deeply hydrating and non-alcoholic.
✔ Look for essence-like toners with hydrating ingredients.
✔ Apply with your hands instead of a cotton pad to avoid wasting product.
💡 Best Hydrating Ingredients:
🔹 Hyaluronic Acid – Holds 1000x its weight in water.
🔹 Aloe Vera – Soothes and deeply hydrates.
🔹 Snail Mucin – Repairs and locks in moisture.
Step 4: Essence – The Secret to Deep Hydration
Essence is a lightweight yet powerful hydration step that helps skin absorb moisture.
✔ Helps in skin cell regeneration for a youthful glow.
✔ Boosts the effects of serums and moisturizers.
💡 Best Essences for Glass Skin:
🔹 Fermented Ingredients – Like Galactomyces or Rice Extract for glow.
🔹 Birch Sap – Ultra-hydrating and soothing.
Step 5: Serums – Targeted Treatments for Radiant Skin
Serums contain high concentrations of active ingredients to help with brightening, hydration, and anti-aging.
💡 Serums to Incorporate for Glass Skin:
✔ Vitamin C – Brightens and evens out skin tone.
✔ Niacinamide – Minimizes pores and improves elasticity.
✔ Peptides – Strengthen the skin barrier.
Step 6: Moisturizer – Locking in Hydration
A lightweight but deeply hydrating moisturizer is essential. Even if you have oily skin, skipping moisturizer will make your skin produce even more oil.
✔ Choose a gel-based moisturizer for oily skin.
✔ Opt for a cream-based moisturizer for dry skin.
💡 Best Ingredients for Hydration:
🔹 Squalane – Mimics natural skin oils.
🔹 Ceramides – Strengthen the skin barrier.
🔹 Centella Asiatica – Soothes inflammation.
Step 7: Sunscreen – The Non-Negotiable Final Step
No skincare routine is complete without sunscreen. UV rays cause pigmentation, premature aging, and dullness—everything that prevents glass skin!
✔ Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every single day.
✔ Reapply every 2-3 hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
💡 Best Sunscreen Textures:
🔹 Gel-Based Sunscreen – Lightweight and non-greasy for oily skin.
🔹 Cream-Based Sunscreen – Extra hydration for dry skin.
Extra Tips to Maintain Glass Skin
✨ Hydrate from Within – Drink at least 2 liters of water daily.
✨ Sleep Well – Lack of sleep = dull, tired-looking skin.
✨ Eat a Skin-Friendly Diet – Focus on antioxidants, Omega-3s, and vitamins.
✨ Use a Humidifier – Keeps your skin hydrated overnight.
Final Thoughts: Achieve Glass Skin with the Right Routine!
Glass skin isn’t about perfection—it’s about maintaining healthy, well-hydrated, and radiant skin. By following the right skincare routine and using high-quality products, you can achieve and maintain the coveted glass skin glow.
💡 Ready to start your glass skin journey?
Explore Esoteric’s premium skincare products for deep hydration and radiant skin!
