We have all heard about the “Korean glass skin”, but what is it exactly? In an interview with Vogue, licensed esthetician and founder of the skincare brand Superegg, Erica Choi, describes it as “Originating from Korea’s beauty culture, where the trend emphasizes hydration, radiance, and overall skin health, this aligns with the global shift towards skin care as a vital aspect of self-care and wellness,”
Korean Glass skin emphasizes clean, texture-free bouncy skin that looks healthy and radiant. The goal is to achieve skin that seems smooth, without any pores or blemishes. The tone is even and the finish is almost reflective due to the hydration.
According to WebMD, the science of glass skin is in hydration. A well-hydrated complexion that appears plump and smooth. Achieving this look involves a multi-step skincare routine with a specific order of application
Why does the order matter? Think of it like layering clothes. Lighter fabrics go on first, allowing them to breathe and function properly. Similarly, according to glass skin experts applying skincare products from thinnest to thickest ensures each layer absorbs effectively without being blocked by heavier products.
What skin-care ingredients make glass skin possible?
Korean skincare’s rise to fame isn’t just about elaborate routines; it’s the unique ingredients that set it apart. Sure, you’ll find familiar ingredients like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, but K-beauty dives deeper.
Snail mucin, a gooey extract with surprising benefits, aids in cell repair and reduces wrinkles. Yuza, a vitamin C-rich citrus fruit, isn’t just tasty, it brightens skin for a radiant glow. Propolis, a beehive resin, fights acne with its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Centella Asiatica, a medicinal herb nicknamed “Cica,” soothes irritation and promotes healing, perfect for sensitive skin. Ginseng, a mainstay in Korean medicine, goes beyond energy. This root extract stimulates collagen production, keeping your skin youthful.
K-beauty products incorporate these innovative ingredients and offer targeted solutions for various concerns making glass skin possible.
What are the steps to achieve the “ Korean Glass Skin”?
One cannot achieve glass skin overnight. It takes months of dedicated and strict skincare day and night routines to achieve Korean glass skin.
There is no single product or cream that will help you achieve glass skin, in fact, it requires you to layer multiple products. So what are these products?
1. Cleanser
Double cleansing is the basis of Asian skincare. It involves washing your face twice. First, an oil-based cleanser to remove oil-soluble products such as SPF, makeup, and sebum. Followed by a water-based cleanser to remove oil, sweat, and other pollutants.
2.Exfoliate
Exfoliating your skin gets rid of dead skin cells to reveal new, brighter skin. However, over-exfoliating or using harsh materials to exfoliate can do more damage than good. It can lead to breakouts, inflammation, and hypersensitivity. So, only use a gentle exfoliator 1-2 times a week.
3.Toner
Once the skin is squeaky clean, the next step is to start adding hydration. The concept of K-beauty toners is to provide a hydro-boost, becoming the first layer of hydration for the skin. Furthermore, toners also help maintain the pH of the skin, making sure that it is neutral and not more acidic or alkaline.
4. Essence
Essences are a little different from serums. They are lighter, water-based, and usually contain active ingredients. Essences are like hydration primers for your skin. Applied after cleansing and toning, they deliver a boost of moisture that plumps cells and prepares them for deeper absorption of serums and moisturizers you layer on next.
5.Serums
Serums are the next step in getting the glass skin. These are thicker and more and more viscous than essences. They usually contain active ingredients that target specific skin conditions, such as:
- AHA’s and BHA’s for acne
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Retinol for anti-aging
- Niacinamide for inflammation
- Vitamin E for fine lines and wrinkles.
- Glycolic acid for uneven skin tone
- Vitamin C for brightening
6.Moisturize
This is the final step in the skincare routine. Moisturizers lock in everything that has been applied to the skin. Always choose a moisturizer that is light on the skin and absorbs easily.
7.Sunscreen
The hype around sunscreen is real. No skincare routine is complete without it. Sunscreen helps with skin cancer, sunburn, and premature aging. It is recommended to use an SPF 30 every day but if you’re spending too much time outdoors, an SPF 60 is recommended.
8.Facials
Another way to achieve glass skin is to get regular facials. These facials usually involve multiple steps that go beyond simple cleansing and extraction. They often incorporate massage techniques to promote lymphatic drainage and enhance product absorption. Additionally, clinics may use specialized tools and high-tech treatments to deliver deeper exfoliation and targeted nourishment. Some popular facial treatments to get clear skin are – chemical peels, hydra facials, LED therapy, microdermabrasion, etc.
If you are looking to get a quality facial here are some salons you can check out:
1. Cosmo Salon
Location: Johar Town PIA Road Branch, Lahore
28-B, Block, C/II MM Alam Rd
Phone: 03204870950
Timings: Sat- Fri – 10 am – 8 pm
Facials: Hydrafacial
Website: https://cosmosalon.pk/
2. 3D Lifestyle
Location: Office # 1, First Floor, Gulberg Galleria Mall Opposite Siddique Trade Center, Gulberg III
Number: (021) 111 232 889
Timings: Sat- Fri- 10 am – 8 pm
Facials: Hydrafacial, Chemical Peel, Collagenfacial
Website: https://3dlifestyle.pk/lahore/
3. Cosmetique
Location: 445 Main Blvd, Block G4 Block G 4 Phase 2 Johar Town
Number: 0323 4770006
Timings: Fri- Sat – 9 am- 6 pm
Facial: Hydrafacial
Website:http://www.cosmetique.com.pk/best-hydrafacial-gulburg-johartown-dha-lahore-pakistan.php
4. Dr. Sana Younus
Location: Surgimed Hospital New Out Door 1-Zafar Ali Road, Gulberg-V, Lahore, Pakistan 54660
Timings: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 6 am- 8 pm
Saturday 6 am – 4 pm
Number: 03014726556
Facial: Acne and Scar Treatments
Website: https://www.drsanayounas.com/
5. Skinfudge
Location: MM Alam Rd, Block B2 Block B 2 Gulberg III, Lahore, Punjab 54792
Timings: Monday- Sunday 2 pm – 9 pm ( Appointment only)
Number: 03120588944
04234556241
Facial: Hydrafacial, Carbonfacial, BB Glow facial, Charcoalfacial
Website: https://www.skinfudge.com/
6. Dr. Zaqra
Location: Syed Maratib Ali Road, 14/B1 F.C.C., Lahore
Number: 0333-4142045
Timings: Mon-Sat – 11 pm – 7 pm
Facials: Chemical peel, Aquafacial, Carbonfacial, Hydrafacial, Microdermabrasion
