There’s something about that translucent, dewy glow that catches light in all the right places, often referred to as glass-like skin. It’s not reserved for photo filters or K-beauty models. With the right skincare and a few smart makeup techniques, you can bring this glossy, reflective finish into your everyday look.

This guide walks you through how to get that glass skin makeup finish, starting with skin prep and ending with the final touch of highlight. Everything you need to know is right here.

What Exactly Is the Glass Skin Look?

Glass skin is a term popularized by Korean beauty trends, describing skin that looks intensely hydrated, smooth, and practically poreless. It reflects light, giving it a luminous, almost “wet” appearance without looking greasy. Achieving this glow requires a mix of skincare and dewy skin makeup that works together in harmony.

Step 1: Start With a Skin-Centric Routine

Before foundation, skin prep is non-negotiable. The smoother and more hydrated your skin, the better your makeup will look.

Double Cleanse

Use an oil-based cleanser to remove makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser. This clears the skin without drying it out. This step is important for maintaining a fresh glow all day long!

Exfoliate 1-2 Times a Week

Gentle exfoliation helps remove dull surface cells and lets your products penetrate better. Stick to chemical exfoliants or soft scrubs to avoid irritation.

Hydrating Toner or Mist

Apply a toner packed with ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients support that glass skin routine hydration layer you need.

Serum and Moisturizer

A lightweight hydrating serum (look for Niacinamide or Hyaluronic Acid) followed by a non-greasy moisturizer helps build plumpness. Skin should feel supple, and not tight.

Daily SPF

Sun protection is essential to prevent dullness, dark spots, and dehydration. A broad-spectrum SPF also protects the skin barrier, which is crucial for a consistently radiant finish.

Step 2: Choose the Right Makeup Products

Skincare creates the base, but glowing skin makeup seals the deal. Layer strategically for that lit-from-within finish.

Start With a Hydrating Primer

A glass skin primer blurs pores and reflects light. Go for one with skin-loving ingredients that gives your face a smooth, hydrated base.

Use a Hydrating, Dewy Foundation

Get Even Serum Foundation

This lightweight, medium-coverage foundation is ideal for dry, dull, or pigmented skin. Infused with Vitamin C, Niacinamide, and Bakuchiol, it brightens skin while offering a radiant satin finish. It also contains SPF 50 for daily protection. Perfect for that luminous makeup finish without clogging pores.

If your skin leans oily or acne-prone, swap for:

Matte Up Serum Foundation

Formulated with Zinc and Niacinamide, this foundation controls excess oil while still allowing a subtle glow to peek through. It’s breathable, non-comedogenic, and wears beautifully through the day with a natural matte touch.

Use Concealer Lightly

Dab only where needed. Under the eyes, around the nose, or on blemishes. Choose a hydrating formula to avoid dry patches.

Tap On Highlighter (Cream or Liquid)

Focus on cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow. This adds dimension without chunky glitter.

Step 3: Add Natural Color and Glow

Color adds life to the glass skin finish, but it’s important to keep it fresh and soft.

Soak It Hydra Jelly Tint

This multipurpose tint for lips, cheeks, and eyes melts into the skin, delivering a natural flush. Powered by Squalane and Copper Peptides, it supports elasticity and smoothness over time. Think of it as the hydrating foundation’s best friend! It’s lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting.

Can Oily Skin Types Achieve Glass Skin?

Absolutely. The secret is using non-comedogenic, oil-balancing formulas that hydrate without clogging pores. Focus on products that contain Zinc, Niacinamide, and water-based hydrators. A well-moisturized oily skin type can glow just as beautifully with the right prep and best products for glass skin.

Finishing Touches That Make a Difference

  • Setting Spray: Use a dewy setting mist instead of powder. Powder can dull the glow; mist enhances it.

  • Touch-up Strategy: Carry blotting sheets if you get shiny mid-day, but avoid matte touch-ups.

  • Hydration Reminder: Water-rich skincare and regular water intake both support skincare for glowing skin.

Top Product Picks to Nail the Look

Here’s a recap of your glass skin makeup toolkit from Type Beauty:

These formulas go beyond coverage. They treat, protect, and enhance your skin from within.

Key Takeaways

  1. Hydration is the non-negotiable base for achieving glass-like skin.

  2. Use dewy, lightweight makeup that enhances your skin’s natural texture.

  3. Consistent skincare is essential—makeup alone won’t deliver the look.

  4. Oily and acne-prone skin can achieve glass skin with the right products.

  5. Prioritize multi-functional products that offer both coverage and care.

FAQs

1. What is the glass skin trend?

A skincare and makeup approach that creates hydrated, smooth, and radiant skin with a poreless, glossy finish.

2. How do you get glass-like skin with makeup?

Use a glass skin primer, hydrating foundation, highlighter, and cream blush. The key is layering light-reflecting, moisturizing formulas.

3. Can you achieve glass skin with oily skin?

Yes. Use oil-controlling but hydrating products. Focus on non-comedogenic formulas that balance oil and add moisture.

4. What makeup steps are needed for a glass skin look?

Prep with skincare, apply a luminous primer, blend in dewy foundation, conceal selectively, and highlight with a cream formula.

5. How long does it take to achieve a glass skin look?

If you're using glass skin makeup, the result is immediate with the right layering technique. For a naturally glass-like texture from skincare alone, results can take 2–6 weeks depending on your consistency, skin type, and the actives used.