You’ve probably seen them, especially on social media – people with unbelievably flawless, seemingly poreless skin, and dewy complexions. Are they wearing full-face makeup or do they edit their photos to achieve the look?
Well, some of them do achieve that look with the help of filters and Photoshop. That said, there are many people who truly have the flawless, dewy complexion that has come to be known as “glass skin”. Simply put, glass skin is skin at its healthiest.
When you don’t have acne pimples, rashes, dry skin, enlarged pores, and hyperpigmentation, you’ll also have the coveted baby-soft glass skin.
However, to have glass skin, it will take more than just applying a ‘miracle’ product that claims to be the elixir of youth. It takes a holistic approach that incorporates consuming a healthy, balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and drinking enough water every day. Then you have to follow your skincare routine religiously.
With that in mind, here is a step-by-step guide to achieving glass skin:
Step 1: exfoliate
The first step is to exfoliate – use a gentle chemical exfoliant to get rid of dead skin cells and dirt build-up in your pores. This step removes the dull, unevenly textured layer of skin to reveal a smoother, softer, and flawless layer.
I highly recommend going for a 2% concentration BHA (salicylic) formula, especially if you have sensitive skin. It will quickly decongest your pores, smooth wrinkles, and even out your skin tone. Exfoliation should only be done no more than twice a week.
Step 2: Double cleanse
On the daily, this should be the first step in your glass-skin routine. Instead of the usual single cleanser, you need two types of cleanser – an oil-based cleanser and a water-based cleanser. After removing your makeup, apply the oil-based cleanser. It will lift off oil-based impurities without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
After rinsing off the oil-based cleanser, apply the water-based cleanse using circular motions. Rinse of the second cleanser and pat your skin dry.
Step 3: Apply a toner
In the past, toners were discouraged by skincare experts because they could be extremely drying. However, most of today’s cleansers are not as drying – some of them are formulated with moisture enhancing ingredients such as green tea, ginseng, and floral water.
Toners can help reset your skin’s pH, allowing your other products to absorb even better. Avoid toners with alcohol or with hazel, which are have drying effects.
Step 4: Introduce an essence
If you love serums, you will definitely fall in love with essences. Simply put, an essence is a less-concentrated and more lightweight than serums.
An essence adds moisture to your skin. It also easily penetrates into your skin to address common woes such as hyperpigmentation and redness.
Step 5: Time for serum
After applying an essence, the next step is to apply your favourite beauty serum or hydrating facial oil. These products are packed with antioxidants that will protect your skin from premature lines and wrinkles.
Go for products with vitamins or hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid will oil attract and retain moisture on your skin, leading to that enviable dewy glow. If you opt for a facial oil, choose something that’s plant or herb-based and lightweight.
You want something that will absorb into your skin quickly and won’t cause breakouts. A product I highly recommend is The Ordinary Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oi – it will nourish your skin without clogging your pores.
Step 7: Apply moisturiser
Finally, it’s time to apply moisturiser! Again you want to go for a lightweight moisturiser that won’t clog your pores which might lead to breakouts and pore enlargement. For the best results go for formulas that contain botanical extracts, antioxidants, and powerful hydrators.
Step 8: Apply sunscreen
The final step in the glass-skin routine is to apply some sunscreen. Look for a product that won’t leave behind a whitish residue so as to have your skin’s natural, healthy complexion shine through. The sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays to keep hyperpigmentation and premature wrinkles at bay.
Step 9: Seal with a sheet mask
Sheet mask come with plenty of beauty benefits such as brightening your complexion, hydrating your skin, and controlling acne. Choose a mask that is specifically made to target the skin problem you want to address.
Like exfoliation, you don’t have to use a mask every day. Depending on your skin type and needs, you can use a mask once or up to three times a week. Read and follow the product’s instructions.
Apply the mask after you’ve cleansed and exfoliated and leave it on for 15-25 minutes.