A Step-By-Step Guide To Getting Glass Skin

Makeup trends come and go so quickly it can be hard to keep up with the latest looks. One craze that shows no sign of falling from the limelight, however, is glass skin. If you’re reading this and wondering, ‘What is glass skin?’, we’re here to enlighten you. Inspired by Korean skincare and beauty which gained popularity a few years ago, reflective cheekbones, radiant skin, and a smooth, flawless complexion are just a few of the terms that describe glassy skin. While achieving a complexion so even toned it appears like glass might seem like an unattainable feat, we’re here to help you build your glass skin routine.

How to get glass skin

It’s no surprise that ultra-flawless, super dewy skin requires a bit of effort and patience. Unlike other makeup trends that can be achieved with specific makeup products, glass skin needs a relatively healthy base to begin with. This makes having a thorough, diligent skincare routine essential when it comes to getting glass skin. Along with cleansing, toning, and moisturising, it’s also important to opt for glowy makeup that will hydrate the skin and boost its radiance.  From how to care for your skin to the hydrating products to use, follow our step-by-step guide on how to jump on the trend of glass skin for yourself.

1. Cleanse and exfoliate

Cleansing is the first, and arguably most important, step in your skincare routine. Not only does it remove makeup, dirt, and grime, cleansing your face can also help to banish breakouts and a build-up of dead skin cells. To cleanse, massage your product of choice over your face for two to three minutes, before washing off with warm water and a clean flannel. If you have acne-prone skin, cleanse twice to ensure your skin is extra clean and free from impurities. Follow this twice a week with your favourite exfoliating scrub, working the product in circular motions around your face to buff the skin and prevent clogged pores.

The best cleansers and exfoliators

2. Layer moisture

Ultra-dewy skin is one of the key characteristics of glass skin. To give your skin a boost of hydration, make the most of nourishing treatments such as mists, essences, and serums after cleansing and exfoliating. To begin layering moisture, spray a facial mist three to five inches away from your face morning and night. Follow this with a lightweight facial essence formulated to tackle skin concerns such as redness and pigmentation, and a nourishing serum to promote a smoother, firmer complexion. Gently massage the products into the skin, or pat in for better absorption. 

The best mists, essences, and serums

3. Use light, gel-based formulas

Add extra shine to your base by using a moisturiser and SPF. Hydrated skin not only aids healing and helps to prevent breakouts but is perhaps the quickest to way to achieving that glass-skin glow. Aim for formulas that have a light, gel base, as this will leave your face looking fresh and hydrated without the sticky feel. The most effective moisturiser will also be enriched with hyaluronic acid, the ultimate hydration hero when it comes to attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. Follow this with a gel SPF for a final touch of hydration and protection in your glass skin routine.

The best moisturisers and SPFs

4. Choose glowy makeup formulas

Now you’ve got your skincare routine in check, it’s time to haul the makeup that will take your glass skin to the next level. Steer clear of any mattifying products, and instead get your glow on with products that promise to hydrate and boost radiance. Start off with an illuminating primer which will give your base the best chance at appearing sheer and glowy. Layer this with a lightweight, moisturising foundation with a dewy finish to create the fresh-faced, glazed effect of glass skin.

The best glowy makeup formulas

5. Stick to creams and liquids

Thanks to the creation of cream and liquid blushers and bronzers, you can still achieve a contoured, healthy glow without sacrificing the dewy look of glass skin. Blending seamlessly into your foundation, these products are great for defining and sculpting your features while adding some warmth to your base. Apply bronzer to the natural contours of your face, followed by a dab of blusher just above the cheekbones for a refreshed and enhanced complexion.

The best liquid bronzers and blushers

6. Avoid matte finishes

For those of you with oily skin, the concept of a makeup trend best known for its dewy, shiny appearance might seem like a recipe for disaster. Never fear – you can still use powder when achieving the glass skin look. To ensure you don’t take away from that healthy glow you’ve worked so hard to create, choose a powder that is both lightweight and illuminating, and apply only to essential areas such as your T-zone and under-eye area. Lock your base in place with a dewy-finish setting spray for an all-over, glassy glow.

The best setting sprays and powders for dewy skin