Wellness
What is the 'Glass Skin' Trend?
Learn about the popular Korean beauty trend 'glass skin'—what it is, why it's trending, and how people are achieving this radiant, flawless look.
What is it?
'Glass skin' is a Korean beauty term used to describe a complexion that is exceptionally smooth, luminous, and clear—so flawless it looks like glass. This ideal focuses on skin that is intensely hydrated from within, creating a dewy, plump, and youthful appearance. It’s not about a poreless or perfect look, which is unrealistic, but about achieving the healthiest possible state for your skin, making it appear translucent and radiant. The core of this trend is a commitment to a thorough skincare regimen rather than using makeup to create the effect.
Why is it trending?
The glass skin trend originated in South Korea, where clear, glowing skin has long been a beauty standard. Its global popularity surged with the rise of K-pop and K-dramas, and was amplified by beauty influencers on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. The trend appeals to a growing desire for more natural beauty and self-care practices, shifting the focus from covering imperfections with makeup to nurturing skin health. It promotes a vision of a radiant, healthy complexion that appears achievable through a dedicated skincare routine.
How does it affect people?
To achieve glass skin, people adopt a multi-step skincare routine focused on intense hydration and gentle exfoliation. This often involves double cleansing (using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one), regular exfoliation to remove dead skin cells, and layering multiple lightweight, hydrating products like toners, essences, and serums. Key ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C are popular choices. The routine is sealed with a moisturizer to lock everything in and finished with daily sunscreen to protect the skin and maintain its healthy glow.