‘’Glass skin’’, a phrase that originated on the K-Beauty scene and quickly skyrocketed on social media, and thus, the beauty community. Basically, it’s used to describe a complexion so luminous and it could only be modelled by glass (um, yes please!). 

Glass skin is often sought after not only in Korea, but also Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, and other countries across Asia—but, if you ask any Korean, it’s not about spending a lot of money on products. It’s about habits and routines that don’t even cost a single thing. All you need is a sustainable and clever skincare routine to tackle your beauty issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation or just plain old sun-damage to get flawlessly fabulous and healthy skin.

Ready to get the glass skin you desire? Scroll down to read more of Beauty Insider’s tips! 

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‘’Secrets’’ To Achieving Glass Skin

Drenching your skin in moisture is the secret of this approach; it’s what gives your face that *fake* liquid highlighter glow. Other than that, make sure you layer a bunch of holy grails such as: sunscreen, essence, and face masks. The most important thing is to keep everything gentle. Don’t overdo it with too many acids or harsh activities. Overdone it will give you inflammation and that’s a no-no. Make sure to check your ingredients labels. If you’re using products with vitamin C, be very careful about cocktailing them with high concentrations of AHAs, BHAs, or retinol.

7 Steps To Get Glass Skin

1. Start By Gentle Cleansing 

First and foremost, cleanse, cleanse, cleanse! To achieve glass skin, it’s crucial to wash away all that dirt and grime. And the best way is to use a gentle cleanser/wash in the morning and at night. This way, you’re sure to get rid of make-up and all the dirt and oil from the day. 

I mean, even under normal circumstances, a dermatologist usually advises that you cleanse your face twice, weighthing it at night, before you go to bed. The first cleanse is to remove your makeup so you can do this using a makeup remover wipes or a makeup remover on a cotton pad such as micellar water. The second cleanse is using a pH balanced gentle skin cleanser on your face and washing it off with water. 

2. Use Toner To Remove Extra Oils 

Remove all that residue make-up and extra dirt or oil by toning your skin. I can’t believe many people skip this step because they’re afraid of overdrying their skin. But honestly, guys, toner is just the opposite. Instead, it helps nourishes the skin, gets rid of bacteria, and “double-cleanses” your skin by thoroughly getting rid of all the stuff we don’t want clogging up our pores. Easy ways to get glass skin is by toning, trust me.

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3. Flood Your Skin With Moisturizer 

After toner, come moisturizer. Moisturizing your skin is an important step to help get those smooth and glassy skin, and also prevent further breakouts. When your skin is dry and irritated, it actually causes breakouts and acne. By moisturizing, you reduce your chances of any skin problems arising. Overall, facial moisturizers help balance your skin’s complexion and prevent acne breakouts.

4. Use A Facial Essence

Facial essences have a light, watery consistency—which is what glass skin is about. Essence helps hydrate your skin after cleansing (which prepares it to absorb serums and moisturizers) and infuses it with nutrients. Remember guys, hydration is the heart and soul for achieving  glass skin. Instead of using just one thick cream to moisturize, apply several layers of thin hydrating products. It’s easier for your skin to absorb, and it doesn’t feel uncomfortable in a hot or humid Asian climate. For best results, use patting motion. It’s like giving yourself a mini-facial massage each time you do your skincare.

5. Treat Yourself To An Overnight Sleeping Mask

Sleeping masks should be applied after the application of moisturizer. It gives that extra boost of moisture and nutrients while you sleep, so you wake up with incredibly soft and supple, glassy skin. If you have oily skin however, we suggest using a water-based sleeping mask. The moisturizer and sleeping mask combo will work together to revitalize your skin and restore its glow and glassy effects. 

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6. Massage Your Face Once A Day

This is one of the oldest traditional skin care routines for Asian women. Facial massages increase circulation, and drain excess fluid to reduce puffiness and enhance a V facial shape. You can use your fingers or a jade roller. Apply a facial oil or balm before any facial massage. As a general rule, start at the center of the face and sweep upwards and outwards. Aside from stroking your face, gently tap it with your fingers.It may sound like a lot of trouble to do, but it’s actually really easy. Do it while watching your favourite tv show and you won’t even notice the time pass!

7. Clear Pores Regularly With A Diy Facial Steam

Boil distilled water in a large pot., covering it with a lid to capture the steam. (Optional but totally relaxing: add essential oils to the water: Try peppermint. it’s a natural astringent and smells so refreshing. Transfer the pot to a table, and lean over it with a towel draped over your head. Sit there for about 10 minutes, or until the water cools.

OR, you can invest in a facial steamer. If you have acne-prone skin, you may want to look into getting a home steamer. Try: Panasonic EH-SA31 Ionic Facial Steamer, $229, Harvey Norman. It’s compact, stylish, and makes it so easy to get a spa-quality facial steam at home. After steaming your face, apply serum, facial oil or a sheet mask. Your skin is in damp condition  and your pores are open, it’s the best conditions for absorbing skincare ingredients!