K-Beauty & The Secrets Behind The Glass Skin Look

K-beauty, short for Korean beauty, has revolutionised skincare with its holistic focus on hydration, balance, and prevention. Known for creating the Korean glass skin look, it delivers a dewy, luminous complexion that reflects light naturally.

This guide explores the science-backed 10-step Korean skincare routine, revealing how consistent, gentle care transforms skin into its healthiest state.

The History Of Korean Skin Care & What Sets It Apart

K-beauty’s roots extend centuries, using natural ingredients like ginseng, green tea, and rice water. In the 2000s, Korea’s beauty industry combined traditional botanicals with scientific innovation, becoming one of the top 10 global skincare markets [1].

Unlike Western approaches that focus on corrective treatments for acne-prone or damaged skin, Korean skincare prioritises hydration and prevention. The result is the hallmark glass skin effect that is smooth, reflective, and healthy.

What Is Korean Glass Skin?

Glass skin refers to a hydrated, even-toned, and radiant complexion that looks translucent and naturally luminous. It’s achieved through layered hydration, not heavy makeup.

Studies confirm that increasing skin hydration visibly reduces fine lines and improves texture, supporting the glass skin goal [3]. With consistent care, results are visible within 4–6 weeks.

The 10-Step K-Beauty Routine For Glass Skin

The 10-step K-beauty method layers products from lightest to thickest, enhancing absorption and moisture retention [2]. While not every step is required daily, consistency drives lasting results.

Step	Purpose	Recommended Use
1. Oil-Based Cleanser	Removes makeup & sunscreen effectively [4].	Nightly, if makeup or SPF is used.
2. Water-Based Cleanser	Clears sweat & impurities for a clean base.	Daily.
3. Exfoliation	Smooths texture & encourages cell renewal [5].	2–3 times weekly.
4. Hydrating Toner	Restores pH & boosts hydration [3].	Daily.
5. Essence	Deeply hydrates & supports elasticity.	3–5 times weekly.
6. Serum	Targets pigmentation & brightens tone [6].	Daily.
7. Sheet Mask	Delivers intensive hydration & glow.	1–2 times weekly.
8. Eye Cream	Moisturises delicate skin & softens lines.	2–3 times weekly.
9. Moisturiser	Locks in hydration & smooths texture.	Daily.
10. Sunscreen (Day) / Night Cream (Night)	Protects against UV damage or supports recovery [7].	SPF daily; night cream optional.

Table 1: Steps and purposes of the Korean glass skin routine

Key Steps Explained

Step 1 & 2: Double Cleansing

The cornerstone of K-beauty. Oil-based cleansers dissolve makeup and sunscreen, while water-based cleansers remove sweat and debris. Clinical findings confirm oil cleansers outperform water alone in removing sunscreen [4].

Step 3: Gentle Exfoliation

Use mild acids such as AHA or BHA to remove dead cells and smooth texture. Over-exfoliation can irritate; limit to 2–3 times weekly for balance [5].

Step 4: Hydrating Toner

Toners with hyaluronic acid or glycerin restore the skin’s pH and lock in moisture [3]. Apply daily using your palms for better absorption.

Step 5: Essence

Essences, unique to K-beauty, combine toner-like hydration with serum-level actives. Ingredients like snail mucin support collagen synthesis and skin repair.

Step 6: Serum

Niacinamide or vitamin C serums fade pigmentation and improve tone. Clinical studies confirm niacinamide reduces hyperpigmentation and supports barrier function [6].

Step 7: Sheet Mask

Infused with hydrating ingredients like green tea or ceramides, sheet masks enhance radiance and plumpness. Use 1–2 times weekly for an extra glow boost.

Step 8: Eye Cream

Retinol or peptide eye creams minimise fine lines and dryness around delicate eye areas. Avoid daily use if sensitivity occurs.

Step 9: Moisturiser

Light gels suit oily skin, while rich creams support dry skin. Moisturising is key for maintaining the hydrated look central to the glass skin aesthetic.

Step 10: Sunscreen or Night Cream

SPF 30+ shields from UV rays, a non-negotiable for preventing photoaging and pigmentation [7]. At night, swap for a nourishing cream to support recovery.

Practical Tips For Success

• Layer products correctly: Apply from thinnest to thickest for optimal absorption [2].
• Patch test new formulas: Especially when using actives like retinol or vitamin C.
• Be consistent: Hydration and tone improvements appear gradually within 4–6 weeks.
• Avoid harsh ingredients: Overuse of acids or alcohol-based toners can disrupt skin balance.

Glass Skin Makeup Tips

Glass skin is best enhanced, not hidden. Start with a light primer, apply a sheer foundation or BB cream, and use cream-based highlighters for a dewy glow. Focus on luminosity, not coverage.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Skipping sunscreen: UV rays cause damage even indoors [7].
• Over-exfoliating: Strips the skin’s barrier and reduces hydration.
• Mixing too many actives: Combining strong acids and retinoids can irritate.

Conclusion

K-beauty’s 10-step skincare routine creates the sought-after glass skin by layering hydration, protection, and nourishment. Each product works synergistically to brighten tone, improve elasticity, and achieve a smooth, radiant glow.

To elevate your skincare journey, explore Monderma’s prescription-strength solutions that complement K-beauty hydration principles. Start with a free consultation to receive a personalised plan, and share this guide to help others achieve their perfect glass skin glow.

Content is for informational purposes only. Monderma treatments are prescribed following consultation. Results and timeframes can vary. Use as directed by your prescriber.

Bibliography

1. Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA). Status and Prospects of the South Korean Cosmetics Industry. 2019.
2. PureVictoria. How to Layer Skincare Products for Maximum Effectiveness. 2025.
3. Draelos ZD, et al. Efficacy Evaluation of a Topical Hyaluronic Acid Serum in Facial Photoaging. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2021;11(4):1385–1394.
4. Chen W, et al. The Optimal Cleansing Method for the Removal of Sunscreen: Water, Cleanser or Cleansing Oil? J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;19(1):180–184.
5. Park JY, et al. Insights on Skin Quality and Clinical Practice Trends in Asia Pacific. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022;15(6):10–21.
6. Hakozaki T, et al. The Effect of Niacinamide on Reducing Cutaneous Pigmentation. Br J Dermatol. 2002;147(2):20–31.
7. Guan LL, et al. Sunscreens and Photoaging: A Review of Current Literature. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2021;22(6):819–828.