In this article:
Glass skin goal: unveil smoother texture
Glass skin goal: minimise enlarged pores
Glass skin goal: revive luminosity
Glass skin goal: boost dewy hydration
Glass skin reminders
The internet's infatuation with "glass skin" (unbelievably smooth, poreless, dewy complexions) paints an unrealistic picture. The truth? Those photos are often heavily filtered, promoting unattainable beauty standards. But what if you could give skin what it needs to champion its own version of glass skin?
Enter our guide to a realistic approach to glass skin. We'll focus on research-backed ingredients that deliver the biggest impact for skin's texture, pores, and luminosity.
Glass skin goal: unveil smoother texture
Out of all the glass skin treatments available, hydroxy acid exfoliants (such as AHA and BHA) offer the fastest path to a glass-like effect via their remarkable ability to remove built-up dead skin, revealing the fresher, smoother skin beneath (1,2). Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman agrees, recommending “topical products with AHA and BHA, or mandelic and lactic acid, to keep skin smooth and unclog pores.”
6% Mandelic Acid + 2% Lactic Acid is a hero AHA liquid exfoliant for glass skin thanks to the way it resurfaces texture and tone (suitable for all skin types).
Opt for 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant if clogged pores are a top concern (BHA not only smooths skin’s surface but also penetrates deeper to decongest clogged pores).
For advanced results, you can alternate between both. These types of gentle AHA and BHA exfoliants can be used consistently at home to maintain ongoing results, making them preferred over occasional professional-strength peels.
Glass skin goal: minimise enlarged pores
Bring on the niacinamide! This superhero ingredient is known for its unique ability to tighten enlarged pores (3). While it won’t make skin completely poreless like ads for glass skin serums suggest, niacinamide offers noticeable improvement by restoring the pore lining to its normal shape and size. Bonus, niacinamide helps even out skin tone adding to its glass skin benefits, too (4).
For best results, use a concentrated niacinamide treatment in tandem with BHA for synergistic pore clearing and reduction.
Glass skin goal: revive luminosity
If you’re aiming for the coveted glass skin glow, don’t overlook retinoids for skin. Retinoids promote cellular renewal and target multiple factors in skin that result in more youthful, luminous tone and clearer skin (5). They’re also backed by research for a myriad of anti-ageing benefits, making retinoids a top choice to help future-proofing skin against wrinkles and fine lines (6).
We recommend an advanced retinaldehyde-powered retinoid treatment to deliver results closest to prescription-strength without the prescription or irritation.
Glass skin goal: boost dewy hydration
Sun protection is essential for keeping glass skin in tip top shape, but don’t settle for a basic sunscreen. Treat yourself to a hydrating SPF that illuminates skin with a dewy finish, while shielding from harmful UV rays during the day.
For your nighttime routine, boost skin’s natural moisturising factors with an overnight mask formulated to maximise your hydrated glow.
Our Best-Selling BHA Exfoliant
Our #1 product worldwide + cult favourite, this gentle leave-on exfoliant quickly unclogs pores, smooths wrinkles, and brightens and evens out skin tone.
Improve Skin Texture
A highly concentrated niacinamide (vitamin B3) serum that effectively tightens and minimises the look of sagging pores and rough bumps caused by age or sun damage.
Illuminate Instantly
This illuminating moisturiser shields skin with all-mineral sun protection plus antioxidants to help protect against the effects of environmental damage.
Glass skin reminders
While the tips above can help bring out the best in your skin, it's important to remember:
- The glass skin you see online is heavily edited. Don’t compare yourself to unreasonable standards.
- Glass skin serums that sound too-good-be-true probably are. Effective skin care can make a significant difference, but no single treatment can magically erase every imperfection. Focus on improvement, not perfection.
- Stick to what’s proven to work, not fads. While glass skin hacks like using sheet masks can be fun, they don't offer proven benefits over traditional methods. Rely on science-backed approaches that are effective and sustainable.
Learn more about AHA and BHA for glass skin.
Learn more about our editorial mission.
References for this information:
1. Cosmetics, September 2023, pages 1-12
2. Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, August 2015, pages 455-461
3. Antioxidants, August 2021, pages 1-24
4. Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, June 2014, pages 311-315
5. Dermatologic Therapy, October 2006, pages 280-288
6. Clinical Interventions in Aging, December 2006, page 327-348
