Unlocking Bouncy and Radiant Glass Skin: My Korean Skincare Routine

Introduction to Glass Skin

Have you ever heard of the term 'glass skin'? It’s a concept that originated in Korea, and it refers to a clear, luminous complexion that looks almost reflective, just like glass. Achieving this glowing, youthful look might sound challenging, but I’m here to share my tried-and-true Korean skincare routine that has helped me achieve bouncy and radiant skin.

The Secret Steps to Radiance

I will do the same steps at night, just without sunscreen!

1. Double Cleansing: The first step is crucial especially if you put makeup on during the day! Even if I don't wear makeup, I will still double cleanse. Currently, I use Bioderma's micellar water on a cotton pad, which is super gentle. In the past, I'll use Clean It Zero's cleansing balm which melts right into your hands and face. Then I will use Dokdo's gentle foam cleanser that helps get rid of any leftover impurities. This double cleansing technique ensures that my skin is completely fresh and prepped for the following steps.

2. Toner: After cleansing, I apply a hydrating toner like TIRTIR's Milk Skin Rice Toner to prep my skin for better absorption of the next products. I love this one because it has ingredients like Panthenol and Ceramide that strengthen your skin's barrier, Niacinamide that helps to brighten and reduce dark spots, and rice bran extracts and chamomile flower to calm irritation, revitalize your skin, and promote an even tone,. It is gentle enough for eczema prone skin like mine.

3. Essence: I use Mixsoon Bifida Essence. It is a powerful probiotic that strengthens skin barrier, that is great for sensitive, or damaged skin.

Sometimes I will use Mixsoon's Galactomyces Ferment Essence which is great for brightening and evening out skin tone, hydration, and fights wrinkles. This is best for dull, uneven, or oily skin. However, it is a type of yeast so it is not fungal-acne safe.

Pro Tip: They can be layered! Use Galactomyces first (for brightening), then Bifida (to lock in repair)

4. Serum: I use Mixsoon's bean essence serum. It has the consistency of a serum. This has fermented ingredients like fermented bean, barley, pomegranate, and korean pear that help exfoliate your skin gently to reduce your skin texture and pore size, as well as hydrate your skin.

5. Moisturizer: To seal all that goodness in, I apply Mixsoon's Bean Cream. It’s essential to lock in moisture for that bouncy texture. A lighter gel cream like Torriden's Soothing Cream may work well during the day, while thicker creams can be more hydrating at night. In the winter when my skin is dry and flaky, I like using Ato Barrier's Moisture Cream!

6. Sunscreen: Last but definitely not least, I can’t stress enough the importance of sunscreen. It protects my skin from harmful UV rays while preventing premature aging, ensuring my glass skin stays radiant and youthful. I love Roundlab's Birch Juice Sunscreen and Beauty of Joseon's Daily Relief Sunscreen. Both are undetectable under makeup!

In skincare, we want to apply thinnest to thickest consistencies, and wait a minute between each to let the last step fully absorb into our skin. *ALWAYS do a patch test first! Just because it works for me, that does not mean it will work for you.

Consistency is Key!

Like any good skincare routine, the results won’t show up overnight. It takes consistent effort and dedication. Since following this Korean skincare routine, my skin has transformed, revealing a bouncy and radiant glow where I don't feel the need to cover it up everyday with makeup. Take the time to find products that suit your skin type, and don’t be afraid to experiment!

In the end, achieving that coveted glass skin look isn’t just about the products, it’s also about understanding your skin and tailoring your routine accordingly. I hope my routine inspires you to start your own journey towards glassy, radiant skin!