Originating in South Korea, the ” glass skin “ trend fascinates with its almost mirror-like radiance, as if light glides effortlessly across the face. Popularized in North America by Hailey Bieber and her brand Rhode , this beauty approach prioritizes healthy, hydrated, and luminous skin over unrealistic perfection. The goal? A smooth, plump, and naturally radiant complexion, achieved through a suitable and, above all, consistent skincare routine.
Contrary to what one might think, glass skin does not mean skin without pores or imperfections. Rather, it refers to healthy skin with a uniform texture and the ability to reflect light .
This trend is part of an approach inspired by Korean rituals , which favor multi-step skincare, tailored to individual needs. The goal is not to accumulate products, but to create synergy between them to support the skin barrier, improve texture, and maintain hydration.
Good news! You don’t need a 10-step routine to achieve that radiant effect. A few key steps are all it takes, provided you do them regularly. Consistency is, in fact, the real secret behind glowing skin.
An effective routine rests on four essential pillars : cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and protect. It is the repetition of these steps, day after day, that visibly improves skin quality in the long term—far more so than any single miracle product.
Key steps to a “glass skin” effect
1. Cleanse gently: Double cleansing is a suggested technique with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to purify the skin without irritating it.
2. Gently exfoliate: Exfoliation removes dead skin cells that dull the complexion. This results in smoother, brighter skin that is more receptive to skincare products. Gentle exfoliants are recommended, especially for sensitive skin.
3. Intensely hydrate: This is the key step. Well-hydrated skin immediately appears plumper, smoother, and more radiant. Rich creams, light gels, or oils: it all depends on your skin type.
4. Protect with sunscreen: Since the sun is the main cause of skin aging, sun protection is essential. It helps preserve the skin’s radiance and health in the long term.
A trend for everyone… with nuances
Glass skin can be suitable for all ages, but results vary.
To maximize results, you can incorporate specific serums (hydration, radiance, imperfections) or occasional masks. Recent innovations in cosmetics now allow you to achieve visible results more quickly, thanks in particular to ingredients like amplified Argireline, known to improve the appearance of the skin.
In all cases, the goal remains the same: the most even skin possible, capable of reflecting light. Here are a few products you can include in your beauty routine to achieve this luminous effect.
