7 Best Dermatologist-Approved Korean Glass Skin Care Products To Try – 2024
Achieve clean skin and flawless beauty with the right products used in the right way.
Dr. Farhaad RiyazMD, FAAD, FACMS 
Dr. Farhaad Riyaz is a US-based dermatologist and an authority on skin cancer, ethnic skin, general dermatology, laser medicine, and non-invasive cosmetics. He has been in private practice since July 2018 and is a member of the AAD and ASDS... more
shiboli chakrabortiMA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor,... more
aditi naskarMA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is ... more
ramona sinhaMA (English Literature) Experience: 11 yearsRamona is an editor at StyleCraze with 11 years of experience in writing and editing. She has authored over 200 articles on skin and hair care. She graduated from the University of Calcutta, West Beng... more
Image: Shutterstock
Glass skin routine sounds like the Koreans are taking skin care routine to an unrealistic standard. But, after doing some research on this new skin care routine that everyone and their mother seems to be talking about, we have realized that flawless skin is not unachievable. Thanks, K-beauty! This 7-step K-beauty routine that has been doing the rounds over the last few years promises to give you glass-like clear skin. Let’s see what this crazy-sounding skin care routine is all about.
In This Article
What Is Korean Glass Skin Routine?
Glass skin routine is a step-by-step guide to achieve flawless, dewy, and practically spotless glass-like skin. It starts with cleansing your skin, followed by a serum, lotion, moisturizer, and mist – all specifically formulated for your skin type. What sets this K-beauty regimen apart from the Western ones is that it does not make use of astringents but relies on hydrating ingredients that maintain the pH balance of your skin.
It comes as no surprise that this beauty regimen has sent people all around the world in a tizzy. So, let’s break down the steps to follow and the best products to use in the glass skin routine.
How To Get Glass Skin At Home In 7 Simple Steps
To get the most out of your glass skin routine, you need to use products that are highly hydrating, lightweight, filled with antioxidants, and loaded with high-quality ingredients.
1. Cleansing (Double)
Remove all your makeup using the double cleansing method. This method involves removing your makeup with an oil-based cleanser and washing your face with a water-based face wash. Choose a makeup remover and face wash that are specially formulated for your skin type and maintain the pH balance of your skin without drying it out.
2. Toning
Toning is a step most of us tend to take for granted, but it can make a huge difference in the long run. Cleansing opens up your pores and leaves them open if you do not follow it up with a toner. Use a gentle, non-alcoholic toner that closes your pores, softens your skin, restores its pH balance, and plumps it up.
3. Essence
Essence is the epicenter of the Korean skincare routine. The main ingredient of any essence is water. It falls somewhere between a serum and a lotion. It is light and extremely hydrating. It gets absorbed into your skin easily and brightens it instantly.
4. Serum
At this point, your skin care routine gets serious and is elevated to the next level. A serum does more than hydrating your skin – it evens out your skin tone, plumps up your skin, reduces fine lines, and maintains the moisture balance in your skin throughout the day. Use a serum that contains active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), or beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).
5. Moisturize… A Lot!
Sometimes, the whole point of following a skin care routine is to moisturize your skin and find ways to keep it hydrated for the longest time. You need to use a moisturizer that is meant for your skin type, does not cause breakouts, and has a calming and brightening effect.
6. Foundation
Look for a medium coverage foundation that matches your skin type and skin tone. Don’t use a matte-finish foundation because it will work against the glassy-dewy look that you’re trying to achieve. Choose a foundation that is light, gel-based, blends easily, and has a mild illuminating effect.
7. Highlighting Lotion
Highlighting is the last step of the glass skin routine before you move on to your makeup. A highlighting lotion helps bring out the defining features of your face by adding a subtle glow and lustrous finish.
There’s no denying that the glass skin routine is pretty tedious. So, imagine going through all that trouble and not seeing any visible results. That would break your heart, wouldn’t it? This usually happens when you use low-quality products. To prevent this tragedy from occurring, I’ve combined the best products that you can use while following this skin care routine to achieve visible results and flawless skin in no time. Check them out!
The Best Glass Skin Routine Products You Need To Try Out
1. Best Oil-Based Cleanser:Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser
The Bounce Cleanser from Glow Recipe is a best-seller because it is filled with antioxidants, has toning properties, is extremely hydrating, and contributes to a luminous skin appearance. Use a cleansing balm or an oil-based cleanser to remove your makeup before you wash your face with this cleanser. It is formulated to support the skin barrier, ensuring that your skin remains healthy and radiant.Need more information about the product? Watch this video featuring the tester’s experience of using the product along with a detailed review.
Quick TipPros
- Gentle formula
- Moisturizes the skin
- Exfoliates the skin
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
- Silicon-free
- Alcohol-free
- Mineral oil-free
- No synthetic dyes
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
"This cleanser has a pleasant blueberry scent and works well on all skin types. It is gentle enough for daily use. It keeps the skin clear and makes it soft to touch."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product is so liked by shoppers that it has gained over 1,369 great reviews on Amazon.
2. Best Alcohol-Free Toner:Whamisa Organic Flower Skin Toner
Look up any list for the best K-beauty toner out there, and this one is sure to be on top. This alcohol- and chemical-free toner by Whamisa is made with naturally fermented flowers that tone your skin while creating a moisture barrier, making it an ideal addition to your glass skin routine and promoting dewy skin. Use this toner twice a day after cleansing, and you will see an overall improvement in the skin texture.
Dr. Farhaad Riyaz, a US-based board-certified dermatologist notes that this is a great toner for those with sensitive or dry skin. He states, “Alcohol-based toners can be especially drying, especially in the winter. Despite having fermented flowers, it has a mild scent which is important for those who easily get irritation.”
Pros
- Vegan
- Alcohol-free
- Water-free formula
- Eco-friendly packaging
- Long-lasting hydration
- Organic
- Suitable for dry skin
Cons
- May have a sticky consistency
"This toner truly makes the skin silky smooth. It has a lightweight consistency that absorbs well and keeps the skin moisturized for hours. I apply it directly through my bare hands and it adds a subtle glow to the skin."
3. Best For Uneven Skin Tone:Neogen Dermalogy White Truffle Laycure Oil Stick
This is a moisturizer that is not only exceptionally hydrating, but it also adds radiance to your face. Neogen Dermalogy’s White Truffle Oil Stick is enriched with white truffle oil that repairs your skin, evens out your skin tone, and brightens fatigued skin. Its unique stick packaging makes it easy to highlight areas that are drier than the others. This is a must-have product according to K-beauty experts.
Quick TipPros
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Non-irritant
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Skin brightening
Cons
- Not suitable for cold weather
4.Best Anti-Aging Benefits: AmorePacific Vintage Single Extract Essence
AmorePacific Vintage Single Extract Essence is expensive, but it is worth every penny. This essence contains green tea extracts from the foothills of Jeju Island in South Korea and is loaded with antioxidants. It also helps with anti-aging benefits, skin repair, reducing the appearance of pores, and moisturizing properties. It leaves your skin looking visibly plumper and vibrant by promoting skin regeneration.
Pros
- Provides anti-aging benefits
- Improves skin firmness
- Hydrates the skin
- Infused with natural ingredients
Cons
- Takes time to show the benefits
5. Best For Skin Hydration:The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2%
The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid is one of the best HCA serums out there. It is a vegan product that combines HCA with vitamin B5 to boost hydration and lock in moisture. The serum seeps into your skin instantly and leaves you with a visibly rejuvenated face. This YouTuber’s review will help you understand the product better, shedding light on the active ingredient and its efficacy in achieving moisturized and healthy skin.
Quick TipPros
- Water-based formula
- Hydrates the skin
- Reduces fine lines
- Vegan
Cons
- May cause breakouts
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With 899 positive reviews on Amazon, this product has become a bestseller.
6. Best Blendable Formula:Clinique Even Better Glow™ Light Reflecting Makeup SPF15
Clinique Even Better Glow Light Reflecting Makeup is a moisturizing foundation that gives you sheer, radiant coverage. It blends easily, leaving you with a dewy complexion and spotless skin. The vitamin C in this foundation covers up fine lines and plumps up and brightens your skin. Check out this video to better understand the functions of this product.
Pros
- Moisturizes the skin
- Long-lasting
- Oil-free
- SPF 15
- Reduces dark spots
Cons
- None
7. Best Highlighting Formula:L’oreal True Match Lumi Natural Glotion
The L’Oreal True Match Lumi Glotion is the perfect way to end your Korean glass skin care routine. It is a highlighting formula that not only hydrates your face but also makes your skin look naturally healthy and bright. Choose your shade, and use it as a bronzer or highlighter. If you are a fan of the “no-makeup” makeup look, this is the perfect product for you as it leaves you with glowing, spotless skin.
Pros
- Imparts glow
- Provides instant hydration
- Suitable for all skin types
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting
- Refreshes the skin
Cons
- Greasy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 15,836 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Infographic: The Korean Glass Skin Care Routine
Glass skin is a result of a diligent skin care routine and great makeup skills. While a little bit of practice can help you achieve the makeup look, it takes a great deal of dedication to make it a skin care habit. We have illustrated and detailed the Korean glass skin care routine for you in the infographic below. Take a look!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Although the Korean skin care products have taken the world by storm, finding the perfect product for your skin-type can be utterly confusing. Allow us to guide you through the choosing and buying of the best Korean skin care products you need to try to achieve the perfect glass skin.
Things To Consider While Choosing The Best Korean Glass Skin Care Products
Skin Type
If your skin is dry and dull, you need to work on providing hydration and moisturization to the skin. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, Korean ginseng and snail mucin extract. These ingredients offer the right level of moisturization and a dewy glass-like appearance instantly. Persimmon extract and vitamin C are examples of ingredients which help to brighten the skin. People with oily skin require good cleansing.
Cleansers with hyaluronic acid keeps the skin hydrated and maintains its natural pH balance. A toner made of botanical extracts is also good for oily skin. Avoid products with astringents as it dries the skin too much and disbalances the oil-water ratio of the skin.
People with combination skin need to restore the balance between the oily and dry areas of the skin to achieve the perfect glass-skin appearance!
People with sensitive skin should pick a cleansing oil which can effectively clean waterproof makeup without leaving the skin feeling tight. Ingredients like sunflower seed oil are anti-inflammatory while ginger root extract is an antioxidant which protects the skin from free radicals. Seaberry acts as a sunscreen while olive oil and vitamin E nourish the skin. Rice extracts are also great cleansers which unclog pores. Pick a water-based or gel cleanser which is fragrance-free for sensitive skin.
Ingredients
If you want Korean glass skin, use K-beauty products enriched in hyaluronic acid, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. These provide a natural glow. Ginseng has anti-aging properties while green tea, niacinamide and centella asiatica provide soothing hydration to the skin. Ceramides, skin-repairing ingredients like aloe vera leaf extract, soybean lipids, and lotus flower water repair the skin barrier, addressing concerns like preventing premature aging. Masks with volcanic mud and rice extracts help with exfoliation and cleansing pores, contributing to a brighter complexion and reducing the appearance of dark circles.
Preferences
Read descriptions on the labels to find out what a Korean beauty product can do! Some products tighten pores, regulate excess oil, and treat acne and blemishes. Use a non-comedogenic moisturizer that will not clog pores. An organic face oil or moisturizer will help regulate the skin. Pick a gel serum and use spot treatment for acne and blackheads. A Korean multi-masking product will work wonders on the T-zone while a moisturizing sheet mask will help the rest of the face. Incorporating a sheet mask into your routine can provide additional hydration and address specific skin concerns.
The Bottom Line
If you aim to have spotless glass-like skin, such as the Koreans, there are many K-beauty products that can help you achieve the same! From cleansers to toners and essence, these products are loaded with antioxidants and skin-repairing agents that eliminate premature signs of aging while providing your skin with a gorgeous glow. These products moisturize your skin and boost hydration, making your skin appear firm and healthy. While purchasing the best Korean glass skincare products, opt for the ones that provide a sheer yet radiant coverage. For an instantly refreshing and glowing complexion, opt for the Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser, whereas the Whamisa Organic Flower Skin Toner is ideal for long-lasting hydration. However, if you are dealing with rough skin texture and dehydrated skin, the The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% is a must-have. However, it is better to avoid products that don’t cater to minimizing your pores and removing impurities. Also, ensure to do a patch test before topical application to prevent possible allergic reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended Korean morning routine for glass skin?
The morning routine is not much different from the regular Korean glass skin care routine. In the morning, use a gentle foaming cleanser to clean your face. You can then apply a toner and serum or face oil to offer nourishment and glow to your skin. Then moisturize your face and put on your sunscreen for optimal sun protection!
Are Korean glass skin care products safe for use during pregnancy?
Yes, most Korean glass skin care products that do not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or phthalates are safe for use during pregnancy. But it will still be wise to consult your doctor before committing to the products.
Are Korean glass skin care products cruelty-free?
Some brands like Tonymoly, COSRX, Saturday Skin, or Dear, Klairs create cruelty-free glass skin products.
How long do Korean skin care products last?
Korean skin care products last more than a year. However, stop using the products if they give off a bad smell and appear to clump.
What gives you glass skin?
Use products enriched with vitamins and hyaluronic acid. The formulas enriched with these ingredients bring out your natural glow.
How long does it take for Korean glass skin care to show results?
Once you start applying Korean glass skin care products, it may take a month to six months to witness visible results.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Shiboli Chakraborti, is a certified skin care coach. She is passionate about the K-beauty skin care routine and has devoted hours of research to illustrate the simple steps to get glass skin at home. She also curated the list of the best glass skin routine products so that you can use them and see an overall improvement in the texture of your skin. These products have been closely reviewed and selected based on user feedback on multiple online forums.
