South Korea has been setting new trends in the cosmetics world for several years now. The global fascination with K-beauty shows no signs of waning, as evidenced by the "glass skin" phenomenon in skincare. We will explain what this beauty trend entails and how to achieve that impeccably smooth and translucent complexion.
What is the glass skin trend?
The term "glass skin" literally means "glass skin" in English. It refers to a beauty trend that comes not from England or the United States, but from South Korea.
In the land of K-beauty, both men and women are obsessed with the pursuit of a perfect complexion. The picturesque expression "glass skin" refers to an exceptionally smooth, even, and luminous complexion. In short, a complexion so perfect that the skin resembles glass!
The "glass skin" trend aims to achieve intensely hydrated skin and an almost transparent complexion, with a particular glow, as if the complexion was "lit from within." The skin is radiant without being oily.
Which products should be used to achieve the glass skin effect?
To achieve the glass skin effect, which means having luminous and almost transparent skin, you can take inspiration from the beauty routine of Korean women. In this country where many inhabitants are devotees of flawless skin, cosmetics are advanced in terms of facial care and makeup.
To obtain a complexion without imperfections, the skin must be very smooth and without any visible pores. It will also be saturated with moisturizing actives to capture light and reflect it like glass.
This very particular result cannot be achieved with just one moisturizing product but requires a layering of several cosmetic products. This is what is called layering (another beauty trend from South Korea).
In practice, you need at least the following cosmetic products:
• a cleansing oil.
• a gentle cleanser.
• an exfoliant.
• a toner.
• a hydrating serum.
• a moisturizing cream.
• sun protection.
Note: if you have sensitive skin, you should make sure to use a very gentle cleanser and exfoliant, then a toner with soothing actives like chamomile or green tea.
And of course, all the cosmetics in the world won't give you perfect skin if you do not adopt good lifestyle habits. It's important for beautiful skin to get enough sleep, engage in regular physical activity, and follow a diet rich in good fats, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
What beauty routine should you follow to achieve a glass skin complexion?
Korean beauty rituals can often be complex, so we're offering you a simplified beauty routine in 5 steps.
To achieve the glass skin complexion, you must do the following in order:
1- A double cleanse to deeply purify the skin. Remove makeup with a cleansing oil and then use a gentle cleanser to rid your face of all impurities accumulated throughout the day.
2- Exfoliation 2 to 3 times a week. You can use a scrub with grains or a gentler peel if you have sensitive skin prone to redness. In any case, do not exfoliate your face more than three times a week.
3- Applying a suitable toner. The next step in the glass skin beauty routine is to apply a toner suited to your skin type to provide the epidermis with an initial form of care. You can choose a clarifying, balancing, hydrating, or plumping toner depending on your skin's needs.
4- Using a moisturizing serum. If you want to achieve the perfect complexion so prized by Koreans, your skin must be perfectly hydrated. That's why you absolutely must use a hydrating serum with a concentrated formula, containing one or more active ingredients such as vitamin C, peptides, or hyaluronic acid.
5- Applying a cream and sunscreen. To complete this Korea-made beauty routine and perfect your complexion, you should not skip the moisturizing cream or the SPF 50 sunscreen. With the moisturizing cream, your skin will be well-nourished throughout the day for a more lasting glass skin effect. Apply a good day cream and then sunscreen. Not only will the sunscreen protect your skin from aging caused by UVA and UVB rays, but it will also provide the distinctive glow of "glass skin".