Korean beauty trends have taken the world by storm, and one that continues to shine—literally—is the coveted “glass skin.” This term refers to a complexion so clear, smooth, and radiant that it resembles glass. Fortunately, achieving this look doesn’t require a celebrity budget. In this guide, we break down the glass skin routine step by step and recommend affordable products with affiliate links to ease your skincare shopping.
What is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is a Korean beauty term used to describe skin that’s intensely hydrated, smooth, even-toned, and luminous. It’s not about makeup—it’s about skincare. The ultimate goal is to build layers of hydration, remove texture, and enhance your natural glow over time.
Step-by-Step Affordable Glass Skin Routine
1. Double Cleanse Cleansing is key. Start with an oil cleanser to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a foam or gel cleanser to remove impurities. Hanskin Pore Cleansing Oil – PHA :This mild oil-based cleanser gently exfoliates and removes buildup without stripping the skin.
COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser : A cult-favorite with a pH of 5.0-6.0 to maintain balance while deeply cleaning pores.
2. Exfoliate (2–3 Times a Week) Gentle exfoliation helps get rid of dead skin cells that can dull your glow. The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution : Exfoliates without irritation, brightens, and aids in improving skin texture.
3. Toner Toning helps prep the skin for hydration and enhances absorption of your next steps.
Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner Packed with hydrating ingredients, it balances pH and plumps the skin.
4. Essence Essences are lightweight but supercharged with hydration and nutrients. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence Helps with repairing damage and deeply hydrating the skin for that dewy finish.
5. Serum Target specific skin concerns like dullness, dark spots, or dehydration. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum – Propolis + Niacinamide Brightens, nourishes, and helps reduce inflammation naturally.
6. Sheet Mask (2–3 Times a Week) Add a layer of intensive moisture and nutrients with a good sheet mask.
Mediheal N.M.F Intensive Hydrating Mask Pack (10 Count) Infused with hyaluronic acid and amino acids for instant glow and softness.
7. Moisturizer Seal in all the hydration with a rich, gentle moisturizer.
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore moisture and repair the skin barrier.
8. Sunscreen (AM Only) Hydrated skin is great, but protecting it from UV damage is critical.
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish Sun Milk SPF 50+ Lightweight, non-greasy, and doesn’t interfere with makeup.
Expert Tips for Glass Skin Success Hydration is Key: Incorporate hydrating toners and essences. Layer them for deeper hydration. Be Consistent: Results won’t happen overnight. Stick with your routine to see gradual, long-lasting effects. Patch Test New Products: Always test new products to ensure they suit your skin.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to achieve a luminous, glass-like glow. With the right routine and consistent effort, your skin can transform into its healthiest, most radiant version.
Ready to glow? Put together your affordable glass skin routine today with these picks and see the transformation in your own mirror.
