As a beauty editor, I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go over the years, but one that has been going strong for quite some time is the "glass skin" trend.
So much so that I wouldn’t actually call it a "trend" now, but more the ideal (according to much of the internet) skin "look". A look that thousands of skincare enthusiasts (including myself) strive to achieve. Billions actually, if the term's 4.4 bn TikTok views are anything to go by. After a lot of trial and error, I think I’ve nailed it, so I want to share my tips so that you too can manifest the glass skin of your dreams.
But what even is glass skin? I define it as skin that’s very smooth, shiny and glossy, which starts to look almost translucent with a glass-like reflection when you add a lot of hydration and dewiness. With the right skincare products, treatments and routine, you can give your skin this ultra-shiny appearance, but better yet, with certain makeup products and skin "finishers", you can also fake it, at least to some extent. That’s why the product recommendations you'll find below are divided into "make it" or "fake it"—allowing you to experiment with achieving your own version of glass skin in a way that suits your lifestyle, budget and skin type.
But first, I talked to some experts—US-based dermatologist and founder of Kaplan MD Skincare Stuart Kaplan and fellow dermatologist Dr Jinah Yoo—to find out more about glass skin, including the skincare ingredients you should look out for when trying to get glass skin for yourself. Ready to get your gloss on?
What Is Glass Skin?
I know what glass skin looks like on me, but what do the experts define it as? Dr Jinah Yoo explains that the trend originated in South Korea as part of the K-beauty phenomenon. She says, "[It’s] a complexion so clear, smooth and luminous that it appears like glass, with the emphasis on healthy, radiant skin over heavy makeup." Dr Kaplan also highlights "very hydrated and poreless [skin], with a luminous, dewy tone."
How Can You Achieve Glass Skin?
As with everything in skincare, consistency is key. Glass skin isn’t something that’s going to happen overnight—it will take weeks or even months to get your skin to a purely maintenance stage. Dr Kaplan explains that we are battling against the effects of "sun damage, lifestyle habits (what we eat, how much we sleep, how much we exercise, smoking, medications, health complications), environmental damage and even the effects of hormonal ageing" in our quest for glass skin, as these factors all cause the skin to become duller, more lacklustre, dry, wrinkled and blemished—the opposite of glass skin.
Dr Yoo says that to achieve glass skin, we must follow "a multi-step, consistent daily skincare routine that emphasises hydration, moisture retention and skin-barrier strengthening." This includes "exfoliating to remove dead skin cells, a lightweight, hydrating essence to enhance moisture absorption, the targeting of specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, protecting the skin from UV damage with SPF and antioxidants; and the frequent use of hydrating sheet masks to infuse extra moisture," amongst many other things. I agree—these are all steps I practice daily.
What's the First Step to Achieve Glass Skin?
Dr Kaplan says the most crucial thing is exfoliation, "removing the dry, dead cells on the skin’s surface to bring fresh new cells to the surface." He explains that "forcing the skin to remove the build-up of dead cells on a daily basis in a gentle, non-irritating and hydrating [way] will lead to minimised pores, collagen stimulation and radiant 'glass' skin naturally." After exfoliation? Pack on that hydration!
Dr Yoo emphasises proper cleansing—in particular, double cleansing. She says this "ensures that your skin is thoroughly clean, which is essential for absorbing the hydrating products that follow. By removing all layers of grime, your skin can better absorb hydrating products like toners, serums, and moisturisers, which are crucial for the dewy, clear appearance associated with glass skin."
Julia Marinkovich, UK representative for K-beauty brand COSRX, says that hydrating products containing certain key ingredients are the secret to glass skin. She recommends "snail mucin, centella asiatica, rice extracts, propolis and galactomyces" in particular, and advises "incorporating these ingredients through serums, toners and sheet masks to achieve a glass-skin finish, and then lock them in with a skin-barrier protection product such as a rich moisturiser and SPF."
Can All Skin Types Get Glass Skin?
It’s obvious that the "ideal" glass skin is free from blemishes and has a smooth, refined texture, but let's face it: this isn't achievable or realistic for everyone. I believe everyone can achieve the key elements of glass skin though, even those with acne or psoriasis, for example. Dr Yoo agrees that "all skin colours and types can work towards achieving glass skin, though the approach and products used may need to be customised to address different skin concerns and sensitivities." Dr Kaplan says that regardless of skin type or concerns, an effective and consistent skincare routine will help achieve healthy, radiant, naturally glowing skin."
How to Get Glass Skin
The In-Salon Glass-Skin Treatment: MOXI Laser
Before treatment
I recently underwent the laser treatment heralded as the fast route to glass skin, all in the name of research. MOXI uses a "gentler" laser compared to other laser skin treatments, and it only requires one or two days of downtime. It’s a non-ablative treatment (meaning it doesn't damage the skin's surface) and is all about triggering the skin’s repair process to improve its appearance.
Fiona Ross, founder and director of The Aesthetics Club (where I had my treatment), says, "When we disrupt the skin in a controlled way using treatments such as micro-needling, MOXI or ablative lasers, the skin produces more collagen and elastin to heal and repair the skin, meaning [it] becomes tighter, plumper and texture-free." This was definitely my experience.
Immediately after treatment
During my treatment (which costs approximately £550), at first, I didn’t feel much at all—it was kind of like the sharp tingle you get when you use a microcurrent device without enough conductive gel. However, by the end of the treatment, I could increasingly feel the heat, like my skin was badly sunburnt. I was told to expect this for the next 12 or so hours. The heat then disappeared and my skin felt dry and tight.
The key to healing quickly and well is to pack on the hydration (no active ingredients) after 24 hours, as well as lots of barrier-repair moisturiser. Over the following few days, my skin felt like sandpaper but didn’t visually look dry or rough in texture. After five to seven days, this disappeared, and my skin tone and texture were visibly improved, with softness, smoothness and radiance. I actually couldn’t believe how good my skin looked at this point—so much so that I was itching to book in for my next treatment.
Two weeks after treatment
Is the MOXI Laser Treatment Suitable for All Skin Types?
Ross, who is also a registered nurse, says that Moxi is generally safe and suitable for all skin types. "It’s non-ablative, so it doesn’t carry the same risks of hyperpigmentation or scarring that some more intense lasers can cause, especially for those with darker skin tones. However, as with any skin treatment, individual suitability depends on factors such as skin condition, medical history and any active skin concerns. A consultation with an experienced aesthetic professional is always recommended to assess if MOXI is the right treatment."
Now that I’ve tried it for myself, would I say that MOXI is a fast route to glass skin? Yes, I think so, and I’ll definitely be going back for more.
The Best Skincare Products to Get the Glass Skin Look
Best for Hydration: Indeed Labs Hydraluron Moisture Boosting Facial Serum
This is like a big glass of water for your skin. Not only does it contain hydrating hyaluronic acid, but there's also nutrient-rich red marine algae which encourages circulation, helping the hyaluronic acid to penetrate deeper into the skin.
Customer Review: "Great absorption and leaves your skin feeling super hydrated. Great product to use when you are in warmer climates and your skin feels dried out. Also great to use after a plane ride to refresh the hydration levels in your skin."
Best for Exfoliation: Kaplan MD Diamond Contour Supercharged 1 Minute Daily Facial
This is a powerful blend of physical and chemical exfoliants, which feels very gentle and hydrating. Finely milled diamond dust, bamboo and fruit enzymes exfoliate away dead skin cells and brighten the complexion.
Customer Review: "This is a powerhouse product. It’s one of those products you see results from quickly, and it’s also easy to use which is a plus. It exfoliates, brightens and makes my skin feel amazing."
Best for Radiance: Beautypro LED Mask
Use this every day, and I guarantee that after a week, you'll be amazed at the glass-like shine of your skin. It also reduces the appearance of pigmentation and helps to heal skin damage—both of which you want in your quest for glass skin.
Customer Review: "I am so happy with my skin since buying this mask. I’ve been using it four/five times a week for 30 minutes on red and yellow, and my skin is glowing. My rosacea is noticeably reduced and I keep getting compliments."
Best for Firmness: Kitsch Ice Facial Roller
Pop this in the freezer and bring it out to roll over your skin when you're wearing a sheet mask. The cryotherapy action from the cold will help temporarily tighten and firm the skin, making you look more lifted and awake.
Customer Review: "I love this roller. Keep it in the freezer. Such a good size for an all-over de-puff in the morning. Works a treat!"
Best for Refining Texture: COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum
Niacinamide has long been my hero ingredient for a clear reason: it does so much. It's the main ingredient I rely on to refine the texture of my skin and minimise pores, and it also helps with dark spots and pigmentation and can help treat acne.
Customer Review: "I've been using COSRX The Niacinamide 15 Serum for a few months now, and I'm absolutely loving it! As someone who struggles with acne-prone skin, I've found that this serum has really helped to clear up my complexion. The niacinamide has helped to reduce inflammation and prevent breakouts, leaving my skin looking smoother and more even-toned. I also appreciate that it's lightweight and non-greasy, making it perfect for daily use. Highly recommend!"
Best for Glow: Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads
In my opinion, this is the holy grail of AHA and BHA acid toners. These pre-soaked pads bring out my glow like nothing else I've ever used. They also help to keep my skin clear of blemishes and smooth in texture.
Customer Review: "I saw an immediate effect after using this once! It looked like my skin was overall smoother and just 'right'. It felt almost like the texture had changed and it was just generally smoother and cleaner. Love the tingly effect after step one which makes me feel like it's really working. Definitely have a sense of really deep cleaning my face and can feel the active ingredients. After regular use, I feel like it makes my skin texture more even."
Best for Plumpness: Laneige Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask
This overnight sleeping mask works wonders—you'll awake to plump, juicy skin with better elasticity. Glycerin and hyaluronic acid hydrate the skin whilst you sleep. The peony-collagen complex boosts elasticity and plumps the skin, and the probiotic lysate supports the skin barrier, soothes and reduces inflammation. This is your bedtime BFF.
Customer Review: "This face mask is divine. It leaves my skin so soft and plump the following morning. My skin is hydrated and nourished and this is now a staple in my skincare routine."
Best for Moisturising: Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Water Cream
This light gel moisturiser will leave your skin feeling hydrated, plumped, cool and refreshed. It promises an incredible 100 hours of hydration, and whilst I can't attest to that, I can tell you that it is incredible. Not only does it hydrate with glycerin and hyaluronic acid, but there's also a biopeptide complex that improves the appearance of skin tone and texture, as well as niacinamide to refine the look of pores.
Customer Review: "I've used the Magic Cream on and off for years, but I bought the hydrating face wash first which was lovely and led me to buy this moisturiser. I have combination skin and get dry patches in the winter. This cream resolved that concern. My skin looks plump and dewy after applying the cream. It's easily absorbed and I will continue to purchase it."
Best for Dewiness: Kinship Supermello Hyaluronic Gel Cream Moisturiser
This is honestly one of my top two favourite moisturisers ever. It has a yummy, sweet marshmallow scent and envelops your skin in a soothing, cooling, silky veil. Hyaluronic acid and coconut water hydrate, and there are also antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients. My skin looks a picture of dewy perfection after using this.
Customer Review: "Super-lightweight moisturiser but super hydrating. Scent is lovely but might be overpowering for some."
Best for Shine: Tweezerman Facial Razor
One of the easiest and fastest ways to boost your skin's glow is with dermaplaning; basically shaving off those tiny vellus hairs (aka peach fuzz) and dead cells on the surface of your skin. And trust me: the hair will not grow back thicker or darker. This sturdy, specially designed dermaplaning razor by Tweezerman is the best for precision.
Customer Review: "So pleased with this tool. The only dermaplaning tool that hasn’t broken me out terribly. Results seem to be lasting long too. Really pleased."
The Best Makeup Products to Get the Glass Skin Look
Best for Dewiness: Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops
There are many ways to use this product, but I either use it as the last step in my skincare routine on no-makeup days, or I rub a few pumps between my palms and pat it over my makeup to add dewiness and give a more natural finish. It's extremely hydrating, makes your skin look fresh and plump and even has niacinamide to help refine skin texture, too.
Customer Review: "Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Dew Drops truly cannot be beaten! This product is an absolute game-changer in my skincare routine. The texture is so smooth and lightweight, and it absorbs quickly into the skin without feeling greasy or sticky. The glow it gives is absolutely radiant, making your skin look dewy and fresh, but never too oily. What I love most is how it brightens my complexion. The niacinamide really helps to even out my skin tone, and I’ve noticed my skin looks much clearer and more radiant with continued use."
Best for Under Makeup: Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base
Whilst this is technically a moisturiser (and it works great as one), it's my favourite makeup primer and I can't imagine not having a pot in my makeup bag. Its buttery texture deeply moisturises and adds a beautiful healthy shine. It's a cult product for a reason.
Customer Review: "This product is one of my holy grails and I will always repurchase! It smells amazing and leaves such a nice sheen on the skin. Amazing for before makeup too!"
Best for Luminosity: MAC Cosmetics Strobe Cream in Glowlite
This light moisturising lotion/highlighter hybrid has a pearlescent sheen which transfers beautifully to the skin and reflects light in stunning ways as you turn your head. It's a truly unique product. I also use it as a highlighter over makeup, patting it lightly onto the high points of my face.
Customer Review: "I’ve been using this for years now and I still love it. It truly is a multi-use product as you can use it mixed in with foundation, on its own and under makeup for different levels of glow. Plus it smells so good."
Best for Glow: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip and Glow Primer
The bronzed glow this gives is unreal; you'll have the most radiant makeup with this underneath. It uses algae to create a tacky layer that grips hold of your foundation to keep it in place all day.
Customer Review: "This works with all my foundations, both water and silicone-based. You don't need much and you need to let this dry on your skin for two minutes before applying foundation. It's not overly sticky and the glow it gives is stunning."
Best for Shine: Glossier Futuredew Facial Oil-Serum Hybrid
This might not be the best choice for those with acne as it's quite oily in texture and finish, but everyone else's skin will love this. I rub a couple of drops between my palms and gently pat it onto my skin after I've applied my makeup to make it look more natural and glowy. It's amazing at instantly transforming the look of dry skin.
Customer Review: "As a dry skin girlie, this is one of my favourite skin prep products. It's literally glass skin in a bottle. It has a light botanical scent, which isn't at all overpowering. Makeup also applies flawlessly on top for a dewy look."
Best for Highlighting: Fenty Beauty Match Stix Glow Skinstick in Purrl
This highlighter is almost clear, with not a hint of glitter or shimmer. It has a very light pearlescent sheen, but it's the slick, silky texture that gives the skin a serious glow. It's like painting on dewy shine.
Customer Review: "Love this product, this has lasted me literally a year and it's still not done yet."
Best for Coverage: Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint
This combined skin tint and highlighter has turned out to be a bit of a Marmite product since its recent launch. It's extremely shiny and some have found that it makes their skin look overly greasy and oily. However, on balanced or dry skin, it's perfection. It makes skin look very glassy and reflective, as well as healthy and moisturised.
Customer Review: "I’m giving the Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint four out of five stars! This skin tint has a beautiful, sheer coverage that evens out my complexion while still looking incredibly natural—like my skin, but better. It gives a lovely, dewy glow that makes my skin look fresh and radiant without feeling heavy or greasy. I love how lightweight it feels, perfect for everyday wear when I want a more subtle, 'no-makeup' look. The formula is hydrating and smooth, which makes application easy and seamless, though I do find it helps to set it with a light powder if you have oily areas, as it can get a bit shiny over time. The shade range is also a bit limited, which might make it harder for some to find an exact match. Overall, this is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a natural, glowy base with a light feel. It’s a great addition to a minimal makeup routine and perfect for that 'barely-there' skin look."
Best for Bronzing: REFY Gloss Highlighter in Topaz
I'm a pale girl, so this bronze-toned highlighter looked a bit intimidating when I first squeezed it out of the tube. When you blend it out though, it hardly has any colour at all—just a high-shine gloss finish that makes you look radiant and glowy.
Customer Review: "This highlighter is so beautiful! Definitely my all-time favourite highlighter to use! The pigment is gorgeous and it blends out beautifully. And the price is amazing! Love, love, love!"
Best for an Even Tone: Chantecaille Sheer Glow Gold Face Tint
This new festive edition of Chantecaille's cult Sheer Glow perfects the look of the skin by evening out tone and blurring imperfections. This is a lightweight perfecting tint with a hint of gold shimmer (though there's really barely any colour or shimmer at all), and it does so much to improve the look of your complexion.
Customer Review: "I use the bronze face tint in summer but it is too dark for my pale skin at this time of year, so I was interested to try this gold tint from the new Chantecaille collection. I was a bit dubious that it might be a bit too 'party-like' and really only suitable as a highlighter in the evening, but this is not the case, so don't be put off by the word 'gold'. I have used it every day since purchase. The tint is actually very pale and is an absolutely fabulous base or primer under foundation when applied with a brush. It is hydrating and really helps smooth out the skin. I have also used it a couple of times on its own and it makes one look just that bit healthier and glowing. The texture is light and absorbs well into the skin."
Best for Blush: Trish McEvoy Liquid Face Colour
The dewiest, juiciest, most natural-looking blush I've ever come across. It comes in one shade designed to add a natural flush to the cheeks rather than any serious colour. It makes you look so healthy and radiant, plus the pen-brush applicator is so handy to throw in your bag and apply on the go.
Customer Review: "One of my absolute favourite products for many years. The colour is so perfect and gives a beautiful dewy look."
