THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ACHIEVING KOREAN GLASS SKIN

Korean Glass Skin has taken the beauty world by storm, and I’m completely hooked! I’m diving into Korean skincare, exploring the routines, and trying out products — but where do I even begin? Big thanks to Ellie Choi, whose viral glass skin-care routine made this trend explode globally.

It’s more than a trend; it’s an obsession that has captivated the beauty community, and this fascination with Korean glass skin shows no signs of fading. But what does “glass skin” actually mean? Essentially, it’s the goal of achieving skin that’s clear, free of congestion, blemish-free, even-toned, glowing, dewy, and soft — as transparent and radiant as glass itself. It sounds almost too good to be true, but the results are within reach!

Ever wondered why Koreans seem to have such glass-like, radiant, and supple skin? While genetics and diet do play a role, their dedication to skincare is equally important. Koreans treat skincare as a form of self-care, following a routine that could rival that of an aesthetician — and it’s no walk in the park, let me tell you!

The great news? You can achieve that coveted glass skin at home with this straightforward guide! Here, I’ve broken down a step-by-step Korean skincare routine that you can easily follow. You’ll find recommendations for both natural ingredients and Korean products available on the market, so you can customize it based on your preferences.

Ultimately, the choice is yours on how you’d like to approach it, but consistency, the right products, and hydration are key. With dedication and this guide, you’ll be on your way to achieving glass-like, glowing skin at home!

Steps Involved in the Korean Glass Skin Routine

  • Double Cleansing- Oil and Foam
  • Exfoliation 
  • Toning 
  • Essence
  • Serum
  • Sheet Mask 
  • Eye Cream 
  • Moisturizer 
  • Sleeping Mask 
  • Sunscreen

      Step-by-Step Guide to 10-step Korean Glass Skin routine at home

      STEP 1: CLEANSING

      More precisely, the term “Double Cleansing” describes this crucial first step in the Korean glass skin routine. It involves two cleansing stages: first, using an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities, followed by a foam or water-based cleanser to deeply clean the pores. Double cleansing ensures a clean slate, setting the foundation for the rest of the skincare routine and helping you achieve that flawless, glass-like finish.

      Oil Cleansing

      The first essential step in the Korean glass skin routine is oil cleansing. An oil-based cleanser gently removes makeup, dirt, and other impurities from the skin without stripping away its natural moisture. You can use a store-bought oil cleanser or make your own at home using natural oils.

      Oil cleansers are effective at dissolving impurities, leaving your skin clean yet hydrated. For a homemade cleanser, try blending coconut and castor oils — just remember to skip castor oil if you have dry skin, as it can be too drying. Olive oil is an excellent alternative for dry skin, helping maintain a soft, nourished feel.

      DIY Oil Cleanser Recipe

      1. Prepare Your Base Oil
        Start by adding cold-pressed, extra virgin coconut or olive oil to a jar or pump bottle. These oils are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and have natural antibacterial properties.
      2. Melt Coconut Oil (if using)
        If you’re using coconut oil, scoop or pump it into a bowl. Melt the oil by placing the bowl in warm water — avoid using the microwave to preserve nutrients.
      3. Combine Oils
        Add olive oil to the melted coconut oil, then transfer the mixture into a bottle. Shake well before each use, as the oils may naturally separate over time.
      4. Customizing for Skin Type
        • For Oily and Acne-Prone Skin: Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your base. Its antimicrobial and antiseptic qualities are beneficial for acne.
        • For Aging Skin: Add lavender or frankincense oil to your base for added anti-aging benefits.

      This gentle, natural oil cleanser is easy to customize and helps effectively remove impurities while nourishing your skin.

      How to Use Your Oil Cleanser
      Take about a teaspoon of the oil cleanser and gently massage it over your face using soft, circular motions. This helps lift dirt, makeup, and excess sebum from the skin. Rinse thoroughly with warm water to remove impurities and prepare your skin for the next step.

      Foam Cleansing

      The foam cleansing step purifies the skin on a deeper level, removing any leftover residue from oil cleansing and deeply cleansing the pores. This step creates a fresh, clean canvas for the remaining skincare routine. You can use a store-bought foaming cleanser or make a homemade version to suit your skin’s needs.

      DIY Foaming Face Wash

      Homemade Rice Water Face Wash Recipe

      You’ll Need:

      • Soap dispenser
      • Measuring cup
      • Spoon
      • 2/3 cup rice water
      • 1/3 cup liquid Castile soap
      • 2-3 drops of a mild essential oil (like jojoba, lavender, or moringa oil)

      Instructions:

      1. Mix Ingredients:
        Start by measuring 2/3 cup of rice water and 1/3 cup of liquid Castile soap. Pour both into a measuring cup.
      2. Add Essential Oil:
        Add 2-3 drops of your preferred mild essential oil for added nourishment and fragrance.
      3. Transfer to Dispenser:
        Pour the mixture into a soap dispenser, then gently swirl the bottle before each use to keep the ingredients well-mixed.

      Rice water is a staple in Korean skincare, celebrated for its high concentration of vitamins and minerals, which help to brighten, hydrate, and smooth the skin — an essential for achieving that luminous glass-skin look.

      How to Make Rice Water:
      To make rice water, rinse 1/2 cup of uncooked rice, then soak it in 2-3 cups of water for 30 minutes. Strain the water and store it for use as a toner, hair rinse, or as an ingredient in your skincare routine.

      STEP 2 : EXFOLIATE

      The second step in the Korean glass skin routine is exfoliation, which is essential for sloughing away dead skin cells and unclogging pores, revealing a youthful glow and radiant complexion. Exfoliating not only enhances your skin’s appearance but also improves its ability to absorb other skincare products and removes excess oil trapped in pores.

      You can choose between physical exfoliation (like scrubs or brushes) or chemical exfoliation. While traditional physical exfoliation has been a staple, the beauty world is increasingly shifting toward chemical exfoliants for their effectiveness and gentleness. Personally, I’ve become a huge fan of chemical exfoliation, but I still cherish the nostalgic appeal of coffee and orange scrubs. The delightful aromas are simply irresistible!

      Check out the recipes mentioned below—I’m sure you’ll love trying them! Just a couple of reminders: avoid exfoliating daily and concentrate on the areas that need it most. For more information on exfoliation and the latest trends, read here.

      DIY Exfoliators

      • Orange Peel Powder Face Scrub
      • Sugar Citrus Scrub
      • Gram flour and yogurt face scrub

        STEP 3: TONNER

        A toner is essential for balancing your skin’s pH levels and softening its texture. It refreshes your complexion, absorbs excess oil, minimizes the appearance of pores, and helps prevent them from clogging, which can lead to acne. Additionally, a good toner tightens the skin, enhancing its overall appearance. When choosing a toner, look for one that is both hydrating and clarifying to ensure it prepares your skin effectively for the next step in your skincare routine.

        DIY Rice Water Toner

        Rice water toner is excellent for brightening your skin and tightening large pores. Here’s how to make a DIY rice toner, which is an integral step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. When applying the toner, avoid rubbing or pulling at your skin; instead, lightly dab it on and allow it to absorb fully. Remember, do not rinse off any products after this step!

        STEP 4: ESSENCE

        Essence is a vital step in achieving Korean glass skin at home. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, think of essence as a lighter, less concentrated version of serum with a water-like consistency. It enhances the skin’s cellular renewal process, boosting elasticity and firmness while promoting a brighter complexion. Essences deliver essential moisture and target specific skin concerns, such as pigmentation and rosacea. This step has long been a cornerstone of the Korean glass skin routine, and it has recently gained worldwide popularity.

        DIY Rice Essence

        DIY Rice Water Essence Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 1/2 tsp rice water
        • 1 tbsp glycerin
        • 3 tbsp rose water
        • 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil
        • Aloe vera gel (enough to achieve a slightly runny consistency)

        Instructions:

        1. Combine Ingredients:
          In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 tsp of rice water, 1 tbsp of glycerin, and 3 tbsp of rose water.
        2. Add Oil:
          Include 8-10 drops of jojoba oil or rose essential oil for added nourishment.
        3. Incorporate Aloe Vera:
          Gradually add aloe vera gel until the mixture reaches a slightly runny consistency.
        4. Blend Well:
          Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
        5. Store:
          Transfer the mixture into a pump bottle for easy application.

        This homemade essence will help hydrate your skin while targeting specific concerns, making it a fantastic addition to your Korean glass skin routine!

        STEP 5: SERUM/ AMPOULE

        An ampoule is essentially the Korean counterpart of a serum, offering a more concentrated formulation loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. Unlike essences, which are lighter, serums penetrate deeper into the skin, providing targeted treatment rather than just surface-level hydration. Serums nourish the skin, boost collagen production, and address various issues such as aging, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. You can use ampoules both day and night; however, I personally prefer applying them at night. This allows your skin more time to absorb all the beneficial vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing their effectiveness.

        DIY Facial Serum Recipe

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tbsp rice
        • 1 cup milk
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • 2 tsp vitamin E oil
        • 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)

        Instructions:

        1. Soak the Rice:
          Soak 2 tbsp of rice in water for 5-6 hours.
        2. Cook the Rice:
          After soaking, transfer the rice to a pan and add 1 cup of milk. Simmer on low heat until the rice is fully cooked.
        3. Strain the Liquid:
          Once cooked, strain the liquid from the rice into a separate bowl. This liquid will serve as the base for your serum.
        4. Combine Ingredients:
          Add 4 tsp of aloe vera gel, 2 tsp of vitamin E oil, and 2-3 drops of essential oil (if using) to the strained liquid.
        5. Mix Well:
          Blend all the ingredients together until well combined. You can adjust the quantity of aloe vera gel for your desired consistency.
        6. Store:
          Transfer the serum into a clean bottle or pump container for easy application.

        This DIY facial serum will provide hydration and nourishment, helping to enhance your skin’s overall health!

        Choose the essential oil according to your skin type

        • Normal- Lavender, Frankincense oil
        • Dry – Lavender, Sandalwood, Jasmine
        • Oily- Tea – tree, Lavender, Peppermint, rosemary

        STEP 6: SHEET MASKS – CERTAINLY A CRUCIAL STEP IN THE KOREAN GLASS SKICARE ROUTINE

        Sheet masks have become incredibly popular among Koreans and are current favorites in the beauty community. They pamper the skin, leaving it smooth and glowing. These masks are designed to hold onto nourishing ingredients, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the skin layers for optimal absorption. For the best results, you can use sheet masks two to three times a week.

        Available in a wide variety, you can easily purchase them or even make your own at home for a personalized touch!

        DIY Sheet Mask Recipe

        Materials Needed:

        • Baby wipes, cotton muslin cloth, or tissue paper
        • Scissors

        Ingredients:

        • Rice water (cooked or plain)
        • Argan oil
        • Honey
        • Essential oil of your choice (select based on your skin type)

        Instructions:

        1. Prepare the Sheet Mask Base:
        • If using baby wipes or a cloth, cut holes in the fabric for the eyes, nose, and mouth to create a mask shape. If using tissue paper, you can layer a few sheets together.
        1. Make the Mask Solution:
        • In a bowl, combine rice water with a few drops of argan oil, a teaspoon of honey, and your chosen essential oil.
        1. Soak the Mask:
        • Dip the prepared sheet mask into the solution, ensuring it is fully soaked.
        1. Apply the Mask:
        • Gently place the soaked mask on your face, smoothing it out to ensure it adheres well.
        1. Relax and Enjoy:
        • Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes to allow your skin to absorb the nourishing ingredients.
        1. Remove and Follow Up:
        • After 10 minutes, remove the mask and gently pat any remaining essence into your skin. Follow up with your regular skincare routine for best results.

        Enjoy your DIY sheet mask and the glow it brings to your skin!

        STEP 7: EYE CREAM

        Eye cream is an essential product to incorporate into your skincare routine as you approach your thirties. It plays a vital role in addressing concerns like wrinkles, dark circles, and fine lines that often arise with age. You can’t achieve that coveted glass skin look if you have dark circles, puffiness, or bags under your eyes.

        Starting early with an eye cream can help prevent these issues. To apply, simply dab a small amount of eye cream onto your fingertip and gently pat it around the eye area. Avoid tugging or pulling on the delicate skin; a light touch is key to ensuring the product absorbs without causing damage.

        DIY Eye Cream

        You can create an effective and affordable eye cream using coconut oil and vitamin E oil. Here’s how to make it:

        1. Melt Coconut Oil: Start by gently melting some coconut oil until it becomes liquid.
        2. Mix in Vitamin E: Stir in about 10 drops of vitamin E oil to the melted coconut oil.
        3. Store: Transfer the mixture into a small container for easy use.

        Benefits:

        • Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to lighten dark circles, coconut oil deeply moisturizes the skin and helps reduce wrinkles by supporting collagen strength. It also prevents puffiness and bags under the eyes.
        • Vitamin E: This powerful antioxidant combats free radicals that contribute to aging, helping to maintain youthful skin.

        For best results, gently massage the eye cream around your eye area to promote absorption and further lighten dark circles.

        STEP 8: MOISTURIZER

        A moisturizer effectively locks in moisture, replenishing your skin’s hydration levels and providing a radiant glow. Simply take a small amount in your palm and gently massage it into your face to boost blood circulation.

        DIY Rice Cream

        Ingredients:

        • 2 tsp rice
        • 1 cup water
        • 1 tsp milk
        • 2 tsp honey
        • 4 tsp aloe vera gel
        • Vitamin E oil (to taste)
        • Essential oil of your choice (e.g., frankincense oil)

        Instructions:

        1. Cook the Rice: In a pot, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil and let it cook until the rice is soft. Allow some of the water to evaporate and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
        2. Blend: Transfer the cooked rice (along with any remaining water) into a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth consistency.
        3. Mix in Other Ingredients: Add the milk, honey, aloe vera gel, and a few drops of Vitamin E oil to the blended rice. If you’re using an essential oil, add that as well.
        4. Adjust Consistency: Blend again until all ingredients are well combined. If the mixture is too runny, you can add more aloe vera gel to achieve a slightly thick, gel-like consistency.
        5. Store: Transfer the rice cream into a clean container. Use it as a moisturizer to enjoy the benefits of rice for your skin!

        This DIY rice cream is packed with nutrients and hydration, making it a great addition to your skincare routine. Enjoy the glow!

        STEP 9: SLEEPING MASK – IMPORTANT STEP TO ACHIEVE KOREAN GLASS SKIN

        Thanks to K-Beauty for introducing us to this essential mask! A sleeping mask is a crucial part of the Korean skincare routine, setting it apart from regular face masks. Unlike traditional masks, you can apply a sleeping mask and leave it on overnight. You have the option to skip this step, but if you follow this nighttime routine, incorporating it can enhance your results.

        DIY Sleeping Mask:
        Mix a teaspoon of aloe vera gel with a few drops of essential oil. Gently dab it on your face to seal in all the hard work you’ve done!

        CONCLUSION

        In conclusion, achieving the coveted Korean glass skin look requires dedication to a well-structured skincare routine that focuses on hydration, nourishment, and protection. By following the ultimate guide, which includes essential steps like double cleansing, exfoliation, toning, applying serums, and moisturizing, you can create a radiant, dewy complexion that reflects light beautifully. Incorporating products rich in hydrating ingredients and antioxidants, along with regular use of a sleeping mask, will help seal in moisture and enhance your skin’s natural glow. With patience and consistency, you’ll be on your way to achieving that flawless glass skin that is the hallmark of K-Beauty. Embrace this journey to luminous skin, and enjoy the confidence that comes with it!

        15 Best CC Creams for Mature Skin That Actually Work 

        CC creams, for those who are still wondering what CC cream is, it stands for color-correcting creams, are either an unnecessary extra step in the daily routine of any beauty enthusiast or a vital necessity. Beauty balms, also known as BB creams, function as a “skincare and make-up hybrid with added sun protection,” while CC cream, its sibling product, is ideal for mature skin because it tackles uneven skin tone and offers better coverage. If you’re interested, let us jump into 15 best CC creams for mature skin.

        Olay Total Effects Tone Correcting Moisturizer SPF 15

        This affordable color-correcting cream from GH Seal Star Olay is one of the most hydrating CC creams out there. It’s a wonderful option if you have dry skin, it’s claimed that it reduces the appearance of pores and dark patches after four weeks and increases skin’s moisture levels by 36% over six hours. To be completely protected, you should use another face sunscreen with an SPF of 30 on top of or below this one. We advise applying SPF 30+ every day. This is undoubtedly not the most inclusive option if you enjoy products with a broad range of shades.

        Elf Camo CC Cream

        This reasonably priced CC cream offers full to medium coverage. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and collagen are mixed in to help skin appear smooth, bright, and hydrated. With SPF 30, a wide range of hues are available for selection. Along with being cruelty-free and vegan, this cream also covers dark spots and doesn’t settle in tiny lines like all Elf products do. This CC cream has a relatively low SPF compared to most others on the market, which may put off certain clients. But overall, with no doubt, this is one of the best drugstore CC creams.

        Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream

        Moisture Surge CC Cream from Clinique is a high-quality product that lives up to the brand’s reputation. This Amazon cosmetic product, which has an SPF of 30, helps the skin retain and absorb moisture to stay hydrated. This oil-free composition is gentle enough for delicate skin types and offers decent coverage for redness and black spots. Though most highly hydrated CC creams have a thickness that can be a little too thick, this may turn off some people.

        Supergoop! CC Screen

        Supergoop is coming soon with SPF 50! CC Screen: a sun protection product free of potentially irritating ingredients. It’s a CC cream that reduces redness and offers light to medium coverage. Use it as a foundation with buildable coverage, concealer, or tinted moisturizer. However, it’s rather expensive, and you can purchase better things elsewhere for that amount of money.

        Dermablend Continuous Correction CC Cream

        Dermatologists have tested Dermablend Continuous Correction CC Cream for safety, allergies, and sensitive skin. It is vegan and free of phthalates and fragrances. With an SPF of 50, this lightweight solution offers complete coverage while offering outstanding protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. After four weeks, it has also been clinically proven to increase skin radiance.

        Revolution Pro CC Perfecting Skin Tint

        During the warmer months, the Revolution Pro CC Skin Tint eliminates the need for foundation by quickly and simply evening out skin tone. When the formulation is rubbed into the skin, microscopic micro-encapsulated pigments explode, matching your skin tone and producing a foundation that looks 100% natural. At first, the formulation appears white. This product, which is formulated with vitamin E, will provide high-definition shine and maintain the health of your skin. But compared to other brands, it only comes in 4 shades, which is not very inclusive.

        IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

        For good cause, this CC cream is incredibly well-liked. It offers buildable, full coverage that mimics the look of a conventional foundation on the skin in addition to having mineral SPF 50. Try this one if you’re searching for a product that offers intense coverage without weighing down your skin. It’s a fantastic choice for both more formal ensembles and everyday wear. IT CC cream’s reviews are relatively positive as consumers constantly praise its lightweightness, natural finish, but it doesn’t have many choices for those with darker skin.

        Neutrogena Clear Coverage Flawless Matte CC Cream

        Drugstore cosmetics has a reputation for having a small color selection, yet this CC cream comes in 34 shades that are evenly distributed across skin tones. It is fragrance-free, offers full coverage with a matte finish, and contains niacinamide, which is proven to help lessen dark spots. Despite the product’s heavy texture, a tiny amount goes a long way in evening out skin tone and producing a lovely veil of coverage. We advise using a smoothing primer first if you have trouble with small wrinkles and pores, as some internet reviewers have reported that it settles into their pores.

        Huda Beauty GloWish Multidew Vegan Skin Tint Foundation

        Although many consumers are pleasantly surprised by how well they can build it up to mask blemishes, the company says that this product offers sheer coverage. It features an extremely glowy finish that appears radiant but natural on the skin, in addition to its sheer yet flexible coverage. The amount of glow may be a bit much for individuals with oily skin, but dry skin types or those who just can’t get enough shine might fall head over heels for this one. 

        PÜR 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20

        Consumers are satisfied with PÜR Cosmetics’ 4-in-1 Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20. This magic tube may become our new favorite due to its glowy finish and barely-there feel on the skin. In addition to being vegan and cruelty-free, this light-weight tinted moisturizer is made with nutritious ingredients including vitamin E to calm the face and sodium hyaluronate to plump and hydrate it. Applying additional sun protection may be necessary depending on your skin type and how much time you spend in the sun.

        Honest Beauty CCC Clean Corrective with Vitamin C Tinted Moisturizer SPF 30

        For those seeking a nourishing solution that quickly eliminates redness and dark spots, this product is ideal because it has medium coverage and a lightweight, creamy composition. This product may make you reconsider applying makeup in the intense heat if the idea makes you perspire more than in a crowded subway car during rush hour without air conditioning. The component list of the dermatologist-tested solution is impressive (mineral SPF and vitamin C). The mineral formulation provides less irritation than many other sunscreens on the market, especially if your skin is sensitive to chemical sunscreens. 

        Amore Pacific Color Control Cushion Compact SPF 50+

        The Amorepacific Color Control Cushion Compact, a cult favorite CC cream in the Korean cosmetic industry, offers weightless coverage for an opulent, glass-skin finish. This product is ideal for touch-ups throughout the day because it comes in a handy circular compact with an integrated application sponge. This product strikes a difficult balance in composition in this light, managing to deliver coverage that many customers characterize as medium and dewy. Ingredients like bamboo sap and green tea, which are particularly calming, are contained in this purse-friendly compact. Though a touch pricey, it’s still worth the money.

        erborian CC Cream

        One of Erborian’s cult favorites, a fantastic CC cream with tons of vitamin E, honey, and centella asiatica goodness, is prominently displayed. The composition works to shield your skin from damaging UV radiation while also enhancing its brightness. Moreover, its encapsulated pigments minimize the appearance of several skin issues while leaving your face glowing and silky. Additionally, it adjusts to your skin tone, giving you a more polished appearance that you can wear all day! 

        purlisse Youth Glow VITAMIN C CC CREAM

        Purlisse’s Youth Glow CC cream, infused with vitamin C—the ultimate radiance booster—is a must-try for hiding age spots, redness, and dark circles while also reducing the appearance of large pores! Its ingredients, which include hyaluronic acid, blue lotus flower, camellia sinensis leaf extracts, and sea buckthorn, hydrate, nourish, and brighten your natural complexion while providing a dewy, fresh, and younger-looking coverage. Additionally, it has SPF 50 to shield your skin from UVA and UVB radiation. The formula is safe and devoid of dangerous ingredients like triclosan, mineral oils, sulfates, phthalates, parabens, and talc, and it works for all mature skin types.

        Essence Magic All-In-One Face Cream

        Although this isn’t quite a CC cream, it is an all-in-one composition with CC qualities that is reasonably priced. This cream offers a tinted sheer coverage that is rather astounding for a single product, and it also adjusts to your skin tone, erasing blemishes and moisturizing the skin. Don’t be frightened if the cream appears cement gray at first. The pigments release as they are worked in, best done with the fingertips, and become a more natural match to skin tone. It includes SPF10 which is quite low so you might want to add sunscreen.

        CC cream is essential for achieving the “no makeup, make-up” look because it’s easy to apply as a base under foundation for a smoother finish, with concealer, or on its own for a very light amount of coverage. Make sure to look through our list if you love the “clean girl” look.