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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!

        Achieving Long-Lasting Makeup with 18 Best Loose Setting Powders

        Setting powder is an essential last step for a perfect finish that improves the appearance of the foundation makeup applied below and helps it stay in place all day. You may use this product in your cosmetic regimen regardless of your skin type. It has a mattifying impact if you have oily skin, but if you have dry skin, it will stabilize your appearance with a mix of nourishing elements to prevent dehydration from getting worse. You will be able to create the ideal makeup look in no time with the help of our list of 18 best loose setting powders.

        Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

        This finishing powder achieves our top rank since it is lightweight and hardly noticeable. The diamond powder helps to blur flaws and smooth wrinkles while the finely milled product has a flawless application. It creates an airbrushed appearance and bakes your makeup to perfection, especially under the eyes. It’s quite hard to use up all the product as the packaging makes it hard for users to utilize everything.

        Dermablend Loose Setting Powder

        Customers love Dermablend’s powder, and it makes sense why. The skin is rapidly matted and extra oil is absorbed by the product. You may use it as a finishing powder for a subtle, matte appearance or to seal in makeup for up to 16 hours of transfer-resistant wear. As an added bonus, dermatologists have examined and approved it.

        Well People Superpowder Brightening Powder

        A matte finish is not always left behind by setting agents. Let’s use Well People’s Superpowder Brightening Powder as an illustration: When applied, it has a silky texture and leaves skin glowing. The powder contains organic cornstarch, which prevents makeup from creasing, and squalane, which moisturizes. The magnolia bark in it also makes the skin glow.

        Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Pressed Powder

        If you’re seeking a dependable setting powder for older skin, have a look at this one. Thanks to the vitamin E in the recipe, it guarantees that aged skin is completely hydrated. Additionally, it immediately sets makeup for all-day wear, tames excess oil and shine, and airbrushes blemishes with spherical particles. Bobbi Brown has always been a high end makeup brand so if you have a tight budget, you should reconsider purchasing it.

        Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder

        One of the greatest drugstore alternatives is Maybelline’s loose finishing powder. The mineral-based product conceals imperfections and gives sheer coverage while removing shine. It is a cheap solution that keeps makeup intact for up to 12 hours and costs less than $10. Eight hues are available, ranging from fair to dark.

        E.L.F. Halo Glow Setting Powder

        There are a lot of drugstore setting powders that compete favorably with their more expensive versions, such as the E.L.F. Halo Glow Setting Powder. Four blendable pigments in this product help to reduce greasiness and guard against fading, smearing, and smudging during the course of the day for long-wearing effects. If your makeup get creased at certain spots easily, you might want to skip this.

        Glossier Wowder

        Wow! This one truly lives up to its name. This loose powder, which is marketed as having the “perfect matte-not-flat finish,” can reduce shine and hide pores without leaving the face looking heavy or chalky as is frequently the case. You will receive a satiny, non-cakey finish from the long-wearing product, which won’t be seen in pictures. Furthermore, it is cruelty-free and vegan.

        Saje Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder

        Saje’s Airset Radiant Loose Setting Powder may quickly become one of your go-to cosmetics if you desire a soft-matte finish but have dry skin. This is because the recipe contains moisturizing squalane. The company’s trademarked “aerated-cream technology” guarantees a weightless, radiant finish for a youthful glow.

        Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder

        Since 1935, this traditional micro-spun powder recipe has been loved—and the price is unbeatable! With its capacity to conceal wrinkles and imperfections for a smoother and softer look that lasts throughout the day, the lightweight cloud-like covering feels good and looks great. You might find the packaging of this item is quite annoying as it can be messy using it. Remember to be steady and careful when you use it.

        Beauty Bakerie Face Flour Baking Powder

        A well-liked beauty trend is baking, or using concealer and loose powder to trap your body heat for five to ten minutes and set your makeup for a crease-free result. This choice is excellent for that, as suggested by its name and package. The HD function will soften and smooth your skin to lessen oils and the appearance of flaws, giving you a gorgeous matte appearance.

        Fenty Beauty Pro Filt’r Instant Retouch Setting Powder

        Another thing we can credit Rihanna for is her cosmetics collection. And in particular, this setting powder works all day to lessen shine and conceal imperfections for a filtered, camera-ready complexion. It is extremely smooth and lightweight to prevent caking. Eight diverse colors are available to accommodate your particular skin tone.

        L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Sweep & Lock Loose Setting Powder

        This translucent powder is a great choice among drugstore alternatives. Along with being reasonably priced, it is designed to set makeup by minimizing the appearance of wrinkles and pores and regulating shine all day long for a delicate, dewy face that never looks cakey. Be careful not breathing in any product as the there are Tacl in the ingredients and you do not want it inside your lungs at all.

        Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre Natural Finish Loose Powder

        Your face will thank you if you’re willing to pay a bit more for this product. Your skin tone will be more even with sheer coverage, and your makeup will look flawless with a matte finish that hides flaws and wrinkles. Additionally, photo-reflective pigments will enhance your complexion.

        Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder

        You’ll want to use this powder daily since it provides skin protection and skin perfection. A soft focus finish is achieved while mattifying shine with SPF 35, protecting your face from UV radiation. Ceramides and olive glycerides, which help to lock in moisture, as well as coated silica spheres, which disperse light and hide pores, are skin-friendly components.  Those with dry skin will not like this product as their people who have used it claimed that this powder made their makeup look chalky and dry.

        IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Pores Poreless Finish Airbrush Powder

        Due to the hydrolyzed collagen in the recipe, the powder glides over the face and has an instant blurring effect that reduces the visibility of pores and fine lines without caking. When applied, the setting product smooths skin without altering the color of the foundation below.

        Anastasia Beverly Hills Loose Setting Powder

        This setting powder will hold your makeup in place while you transition from work to after-work cocktails to more after-work beverages. It has a smooth, lightweight texture. Along with repairing your base, it removes excess oil, brightens, and leaves a finish like an airbrush while without drying out the skin. There are four colors, and each one when used becomes translucent. Additionally, as it will last you years, you receive a lot of value. Like Supergoop! (Re)setting 100% Mineral Powder, dry skin havers can skip this.

        MAC Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Powder

        There is only one color that looks well on everyone, and it is an undetectable shade on the skin. Whether you use it on top of eyeliner, foundation, concealer, or bare skin, it gives off a velvety appearance that will control excess sebum all day and into the evening.

        Blk/Opl True Color Soft Velvet Finishing Powder

        Be sure to complete your look with a few swipes of Blk/Opl’s True Color Soft Velvet Finishing Powder if you want to Instagram this weekend. Although it is thin and oil-absorbing, the tone-evening formula guarantees that there won’t be any flashback in pictures. 

        Setting powder is the way to go if you want your foundation and concealer to stay longer than a few hours, have an especially oily complexion, are dealing with humidity, or for any other reason. If none of them fit you, we think that there is at least one item on our list that you would appreciate.