The « Glass Skin » Trend for Perfect, Radiant Skin

In recent years, Korean beauty (K-beauty) has become a benchmark in skincare. Among its most iconic trends, the concept of “glass skin” has captivated skincare enthusiasts worldwide. But what exactly does this trend mean? Where does it come from, why is it so popular, and at what cost?

Origin and history of the “glass skin” trend

The term “glass skin” refers to skin so smooth, radiant, and translucent that it resembles the surface of glass. This ideal of perfect skin is rooted in Korean beauty traditions, where skincare is prioritized over makeup. In Korea, the concept of “chok chok” (glowing, hydrated skin) has long been valued, but “glass skin” takes this ideal even further.

The trend has been amplified by Korean beauty influencers and social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where skincare routines and spectacular results have captivated a global audience. Its success also reflects values such as patience, discipline, and the importance of a carefully crafted facial routine to achieve lasting results.

Key steps of a “glass skin” routine

Adopting a “glass skin” routine involves following precise steps to deeply purify, hydrate, and nourish the skin:

• Double cleansing: This technique uses an oil- or water-based cleanser to dissolve makeup and lipophilic impurities, followed by a water-based cleanser to remove residues and purify the skin. Explore the OCEAN CLEANSE range and choose your preferred textures for effective cleansing.
• Exfoliation: Gentle exfoliation with the 2-in-1 [Purifying] Scrub or [Comfort] Enzymatic Exfoliating Gel removes dead skin cells, reveals a luminous complexion, and prepares the skin to receive treatments. For oily skin, use a grain exfoliant; for dry to combination skin, choose enzymatic exfoliation.
• Hydrating mask: Masking in a “glass skin” routine hydrates, nourishes, evens out the complexion, and prepares the skin for intense, long-lasting radiance. A mask rich in vitamin C revitalizes and energizes the skin, such as the [Glow-Age] Targeting Mask, which combines stabilized vitamin C with an algae duo including Atlantic wakame to firm skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
• Essence/toner: A typical K-beauty step, essence is a lightweight product that deeply hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier. A hydrating lotion balances pH and boosts facial hydration from the earliest steps. Our latest launch, the [Glow-Age] Targeted Essence, is a precious ally.
• Serum: Choose a serum concentrated in targeted actives like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or peptides to nourish and treat the skin. For smoothing and firming hydration, the Targeted [Lifting] Serum is recommended. For an ultra-long-lasting hydration boost, the [Hydra+] Resource Serum delivers an impressive +186% hydration(1) one hour after application.
• Moisturizer: Opt for a rich but non-comedogenic cream to lock in hydration and nourish the skin. To combine hydration with anti-aging benefits, use [Wrinkle]-Targeting or Targeted [Firming] Creams or our iconic Marine Life Cream. For hydration-focused care, the OCEAN HYDRA range offers different textures for all skin types (gel or cream). Additionally, lips and eye contour areas require specific care to revive radiance, such as the Marine Life Eye & Lip Contour, highly appreciated by users.
• Sun protection: Applying sunscreen is an optional but recommended step to preserve skin health and radiance. Use at least SPF 30 daily.

Choosing the right products: focus on dermo-cosmetic and marine actives

Selecting the right products is crucial for a successful “glass skin” routine:

• Prioritize hydrating actives: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and panthenol help maintain optimal hydration by attracting and retaining water in the upper layers of the skin.
• Invest in antioxidants: Vitamin C, rosehip, or green tea protect the skin from external aggressions and boost radiance. Niacinamide can also help younger skin fight imperfections and reduce dark spots.
• Include marine actives: Algae rich in minerals and amino acids offer hydrating, soothing, and regenerating properties. Spirulina firms the skin, while wakame stimulates collagen production.
• Avoid irritants: Choose formulations free from dehydrating alcohol, artificial fragrances, and sulfates to respect the sensitivity of facial skin.
• Test textures: “Glass skin” relies on layering hydration in thin, absorbable products. Use treatments that penetrate quickly without leaving a greasy film.

With a disciplined routine, well-chosen products, and a bit of patience, the “glass skin” trend is accessible to everyone thanks to the wide range of available products. More than a passing trend, it’s an invitation to care for your skin and appreciate its natural beauty.

(1) Corneometry measured on 10 volunteers one hour after applying [Hydra+] Resource Serum.