Korean Glass Skin Makeup Tutorial: The Ultimate Dewy Glow
Glass skin is like a perfectly filtered Instagram photo: It looks flawless, radiant, and almost too good to be true. But unlike a filter, glass skin is achievable in real life with the right skincare and makeup techniques. Originating from Korea, this trend has taken the beauty world by storm, promising a complexion that’s so clear, smooth, and luminous it resembles glass. The secret? A combination of meticulous skincare, strategic makeup application, and products that enhance your skin’s natural glow.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve the coveted Korean glass skin look. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a makeup novice, this tutorial will help you master the art of dewy, radiant skin.
What Is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is a term coined in Korea to describe skin that’s so clear, hydrated, and luminous it appears almost translucent, like glass. It’s not just about looking flawless—it’s about achieving a healthy, well-nourished complexion that glows from within. The key characteristics of glass skin include:
Hydration: Plump, well-moisturized skin that looks bouncy and supple.
Smooth Texture: A refined, even surface with minimal pores, bumps, or imperfections.
Radiance: A natural, lit-from-within glow that mimics the reflection of light on glass.
Achieving glass skin isn’t just about makeup—it starts with a solid skincare routine. Think of it as building a strong foundation for a house. Without proper skincare, even the best makeup won’t give you that glass-like finish.
Step 1: Prep Your Skin
1. Double Cleansing
Start with a double cleanse to remove dirt, oil, and impurities. Use an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, followed by a water-based cleanser to deep clean your pores. This ensures your skin is a clean canvas for the next steps.
2. Exfoliation (2-3 Times a Week)
Exfoliation is crucial for achieving that smooth, glass-like texture. Use a gentle chemical exfoliant (like an AHA or BHA toner) to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more even complexion. Avoid over-exfoliating, as it can irritate your skin.
3. Hydrate
Hydration is the cornerstone of glass skin. Layer lightweight, hydrating products like toners, essences, and serums to infuse your skin with moisture. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and snail mucin, which attract and lock in moisture.
4. Lock It In with a Moisturizer
Finish your skincare routine with a rich, nourishing moisturizer to seal in all the hydration. Opt for a formula that’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating, like a gel-cream or water-based moisturizer.
5. Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Sun protection is non-negotiable for glass skin. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen to shield your skin from UV damage and prevent dark spots and premature aging.
Step 2: Create a Base
1. Start with a Hydrating Primer
A hydrating primer is your best friend for glass skin. It creates a smooth base for makeup while adding an extra layer of moisture. Look for primers with a luminous finish or light-reflecting particles to boost your glow.
2. Use a Lightweight Foundation or Tinted Moisturizer
Heavy, matte foundations are a no-go for glass skin. Instead, opt for a lightweight foundation, BB cream, or tinted moisturizer that provides sheer to medium coverage. The idea is to even out your skin tone without masking your natural texture.
3. Conceal Strategically
Use a creamy, hydrating concealer to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or redness. Apply it sparingly and blend it seamlessly into your skin to avoid a cakey look.
4. Set with a Dewy Finishing Powder
If you have oily skin, lightly dust a dewy finishing powder on your T-zone to control shine. Avoid heavy, matte powders, as they can dull your glow.
Step 3: Add Dimension and Glow
1. Cream Blush
Swap powder blush for a cream or liquid formula that melts into your skin. Apply it to the apples of your cheeks and blend it upwards towards your temples for a fresh, youthful look.
2. Highlight Like a Pro
Highlighter is the secret weapon for glass skin. Use a liquid or cream highlighter on the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bones, the bridge of your nose, and your cupid’s bow. This will give you that lit-from-within glow.
3. Soft, Natural Brows
Keep your brows soft and natural by filling them in with a brow pencil or powder. Brush them upwards for a feathered effect, and set them with a clear brow gel.
Step 4: Define Your Eyes and Lips
1. Simple Eye Makeup
Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade (like beige or taupe) all over your lids. Add a touch of shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes to brighten your gaze. Finish with a coat of mascara to define your lashes.
2. Glossy Lips
Skip matte lipsticks and opt for a hydrating lip tint or gloss. Choose shades like rose, peach, or coral for a natural, juicy finish.
Step 5: Set Your Look
To ensure your glass skin makeup lasts all day, set it with a hydrating setting spray. This will lock in your makeup while adding an extra layer of dewiness.
Pro Tips for Maintaining Glass Skin
Stay Consistent with Skincare: Glass skin starts with healthy skin, so stick to your skincare routine religiously.
Drink Plenty of Water: Hydration starts from within, so drink at least 8 glasses of water a day.
Get Enough Sleep: Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so aim for 7-8 hours of quality rest each night.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Incorporate foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats to nourish your skin from the inside out.
Product Recommendations
Cleanser: COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser ($13 on Amazon)
Exfoliator: Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant ($35 on Amazon)
Hydrating Toner: Laneige Cream Skin Toner ($16 on Amazon)
Serum: The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 ($10 on Sephora)
Moisturizer: Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb ($22 on Amazon)
Sunscreen: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF 50+ ($18 on Amazon)
Primer: Glossier Futuredew ($30 on Sephora)
Foundation: NARS Sheer Glow Foundation ($40 on Amazon)
Concealer: Glossier Stretch Concealer ($23 on Amazon)
Blush: Glossier Cloud Paint ($22 on Amazon)
Highlighter: Fenty Beauty Match Stix Shimmer Skinstick ($20 on Amazon)
Lip Gloss: Laneige Lip Glowy Balm ($19 on Amazon)
Final Thoughts
Achieving Korean glass skin is all about embracing your natural beauty and enhancing it with the right techniques and products. It’s not about hiding imperfections but celebrating your skin’s health and radiance. With consistent skincare, a light hand with makeup, and a focus on hydration, you can unlock the secret to that coveted glass-like glow.