The idea behind glass skin is incredibly enticing. Can you imagine skin so smooth, hydrated, and poreless that it might as well be glass? There’s a reason why the concept of glass skin exploded out of the Korean beauty scene. In this post, we’ll explain how to get glass skin with the right products, techniques, and treatments.
What Is Glass Skin?
The concept of glass skin ideal is strongly associated with Asian beauty. It’s related to the concept of “chok chok” which refers to skin that’s very bouncy thanks to its hydration level. The term glass skin refers to similarly moisturized skin but with a focus on its appearance. Just like glass, the skin is meant to have a high level of reflectiveness thanks to the smoothness of its surface.
The secret to achieving glass skin is all about making sure the skin is as plump up and hydrated as can be, since having a lot of moisture from below leads to a firmer, healthier look at the surface.
That said, there are other glass skin skincare routine measures to take. They include exfoliation and cleansing to ensure that the pores are clear and there’s no dead skin buildup casting its dulling effect.
6 Ways to Get Glass Skin
From having the perfect glass skin routine to trying the occasional treatment, these are our key tips on how to get glass skin.
1. Maximize Hydration
Hydration is the most important aspect of achieving glass skin in the short term. You want to have multiple hydration steps in your routine. Use your hydrating glass skin products from thinnest to thickest:
- After cleansing, apply a hydrating liquid formula like the ZO Skin Health Calming Toner to soothe the skin.
- For very dehydrated skin, use a hyaluronic acid serum like the Alastin Skincare HA (Hyaluronic Acid) IMMERSE Serum™, or SkinMedica® HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator.
- Next, apply a nourishing and collagen-renewing treatment, like the ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum or SkinMedica® TNS® Advanced+ Serum.
- Finish things off with a moisturizer. For oilier skin types, choose a lightweight formula like the Alastin Ultra Nourishing Moisturizer or SkinMedica® Ultra Sheer Moisturizer, while those with dry skin should opt for a rich, barrier-repairing formula like the SkinMedica® TNS® Ceramide Treatment Cream.
2. Exfoliate
The dead cells on the very surface of our skin make up a layer called the stratum disjunctum. This rough, textured, scaly dead skin makes your skin feel textured and prevents it from absorbing moisture.
If your skin looks dull, dry, or rough, but you’re not dealing with irritation, you just need to exfoliate that stratum disjunctum away. You may benefit from a simple chemical peel or JetPeel facial, or you can introduce a gentle exfoliant for home use like the ZO Skin Health
Exfoliation Accelerator, ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish or Dual Action Scrub.
3. Consider Retinoids
Nothing beats retinoids when it comes to ensuring smoother skin at home. Ingredients like retinol and retinoic acid stimulate better skin cell renewal by triggering receptors in the skin. They’re proven to reduce wrinkles and discoloration, leading to smoother skin in the longer term.
That said, choosing the right retinol depends on your skin type, so it’s best to get a professional recommendation. Those new to skincare or with sensitive skin will want a lower percentage formula like the ZO Skin Health Retinol Skin Brightener 0.25%, while those with tougher skin can try a higher percentage. At Discovery Laser, our doctor can also recommend prescription options.
4. Glass Skin Treatments
Skincare can go a long way towards helping you achieve glass skin, but some things can only be changed with a more powerful treatment. Texture issues like scarring or visible pores might be visible on the surface, but they often start at the lower layers of the dermis.
In that case, the best way to correct such concerns is with treatments that trigger renewal on those lower levels of the skin, like microneedling or laser treatments.
5. Use a Non-Stripping Cleanser
Anything that has the potential to cause dehydration in your skin is a no-no in a glass skin routine. Cleansers and soaps are major culprits, so if your face wash leaves your skin feeling tight then it’s time to switch it out for something more gentle.
We’ve recently introduced the ZO Skin Health Balancing Cleansing Emulsion, which is the creamiest, most nourishing cleanser you can imagine. It still flawlessly removes impurities and debris that can clog your pores. That said, if your skin is a little oilier, you can use a non-stripping gel face wash like the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser.
Remember to Stay Realistic
On their journey to glass skin, people often damage their skin barrier by over-exfoliating or using both retinoids and exfoliants. This can end up making issues like texture and dryness worse.
Another thing to consider is whether your goals are achievable, or achievable through skincare alone. For example, it’s normal for humans to have pores! Our pores serve an important purpose, and while certain treatments can make them look smaller, you can’t get rid of them completely.
Get Glass Skin With Discovery Laser
We can guide you through the entire process to get glass skin, from the right skincare products to the most effective treatments. Ultimately, glass skin can be a lovely goal, but it’s important to start by analyzing your skin’s individual needs. No skincare routine is one-size-fits-all. You can schedule a consultation or get in touch with us, and we’ll be happy to talk you through your options!
