How to get ‘glass skin’ without spending a penny – all you need is the products already in your arsenal, says expert

AS the seasons change, so do our skincare needs. 

And with over 2.8 million TikTok views for ‘glass skin’ marking an all time high this month, the dewy, mirror-like complexion trend is officially back in the spotlight.

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Glass skin refers to a complexion that is exceptionally smooth, clear and radiant, with an almost translucent appearance that resembles - you guessed it - glass. 

It's a term popularized in Korean beauty culture (also known as K-Beauty) and has become a global trend.

“Glass skin is all about boosting your skin's moisture levels while refining texture,” skin expert Elizabeth Japal from The Derma Lab told Cult Beauty. 

“When your skin barrier is strong and your hydration levels are balanced, the surface of the skin becomes more even and reflective - this is what creates that iconic ‘glass’ effect.”

At a cellular level, glass skin is achieved by improving the stratum corneum hydration, which is the outermost layer of the skin.

You also need to increase barrier function and decrease congestion. 

Fortunately, you’d likely be able to create the effect with products already in your beauty arsenal. 

According to Elizabeth, the first step is a clean, even base for that signature reflective finish, which your go-to cleanser should be able to do the job for. 

Then, you need to add thin layers of hydration, which the expert says is key to creating the glass-like effect.

She recommends swapping out heavy creams for your serums and any lightweight gel moisturisers you have knocking about. 

“Look for ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid and panthenol; they bind water to the skin and leave it plump, smooth and light-catching,” Elizabeth adds. 

She also urged glass skin-hunters to practise consistency. 

“The biggest mistake people make is switching up their skincare too often,” she said.

“Consistency is key. 

“Choose a routine that focuses on hydration, barrier support and gentle exfoliation.

“Stick with it and your skin will reward you.”