The world is fascinated with all things K-beauty and it is here to stay. Marked by constant innovation, remarkable ingredients and affordability, K-beauty has a language of its own.
Asians believe in having a flawless skin and describe it in terms like honey skin, dewy skin, cloudless skin etc. depending upon its appearance. The latest entrant is Glass skin.
What is Glass Skin?
Glass skin is characterized by exceptionally smooth, even -toned and lustrous skin. An almost transparent complexion that is youthful and has a “lit –from- within” glow. The surface of the skin should be free of bumps and texture. And, beneath the surface there should be a large amount of water giving it a lustrous and moist appearance. The skin should also appear firm and plump. The water layer beneath catches and reflects light giving the skin its name, Glass skin.
At the core of achieving Glass skin is having a consistent skin care routine and intense hydration.
Steps of achieving Glass Skin
Step 1. Double Cleanse
Double cleansing is cleansing the skin using two cleansers. An oil based cleanser that dissolves oil soluble impurities like grease, grime and makeup residue. Oil cleanser should be followed by a gentle cream cleanser or foam cleanser that does not strip the skin of its natural oils but nourish and hydrates it, without disturbing the natural moisture barrier.
Step 2. Exfoliate
Exfoliation sloughs away the dead skin cells that clog pores, dulls skin and do not allow other products to be absorbed well into the skin. It is important to choose a gentle exfoliant. Care should be taken not to overdo it. It is recommended to exfoliate the skin no more than twice or thrice a week.
Step 3. Toner
Hydrating watery toners, preferably in mist form, are key here. The 7skin method can also be followed to saturate the skin with as much water as possible. Toners restore the pH level of the skin, provide hydration and allow better absorption of the products to follow.
Step 4. Serum
Serums contain concentrated active ingredients that address specific skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, ageing etc. Lightweight and watery serums are suitable for day use. While the thick and heavier ones should be applied at night.
Benefits of Serums containing vitamin C & E
- Promote collagen production
- Minimize the appearance of pores
- Even out the skin tone
- Reverse signs of ageing
- Provide intense hydration by locking in moisture
The Pilgrim Vitamin C Night Serum contains vitamin C & E. Boosted with natural Hyaluronic Acid, it helps minimize pigmentation, corrects discoloration and fights free radicals.
Step 5. Moisturizer
Moisturizers seal in the moisture and protect from any loss of hydration. They make the skin supple and smooth and continue to provide hydration for longer periods of time. A light-weight cream with SPF can be used during the day. While at night, a cream with reparative ingredients can be applied.
Step 6. Eye Cream/ serum
The fragile under eye area is drier than the rest of the face and hence shows signs of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles, much before the rest of facial skin. Only products tested and safe to use around the eye area should be applied. There should not be bags or dry patches under the eye area to complete the glass skin look.
Step 7. Mask
Creamy masks that do not dry out the skin should be used once or twice a week, after cleansing and moisturizing. They soothe tired skin, add more moisture and repair damage. They also draw out impurities from deep within the pores thus preventing breakouts.
Expert Tip to Maintain Glass Skin
During the day keep the skincare routine simple, use lighter and watery products, do not add many layers and always wear SPF for the face, lips and exposed areas of the body to prevent sun damage.
Slightly thick and heavier products can be used at night when the skin is repairing itself. They should not contain any SPF. Extensive skincare routines should also be practiced at night instead of daytime.
Achieving glass skin is more about consistently following a skincare regime for your skin concern and type, rather than trying product after product. A diet rich in skin friendly nutrients eg berries, citrus fruits, dark leafy greens etc., adequate rest, sleep and exercise also play a huge role in overall skin health.
The Pilgrim Volcanic Lava Ash skincare line comprising cleanser, toner & mist, day cream with sunscreen, purifying mask and face exfoliant, has been crafted with the gentlest ingredients. Free of any toxic or harsh chemicals they can be used to achieve a clear, bright and youthful complexion.
White Lotus Natural Face Mist & Toner with Camellia & Witch Hazel
Put the moisture back in every cell of your skin with our Holy Grail of a Toner and Mist. The Ultrafine and Alcohol free formula is just the right vehicle to deliver natures’ most potent ingredients. White Lotus, purifies and tightens pores , moisturizes and hydrates the skin. It contains natural exfoliants to restore the skins youthful look and also has skin brightening and firming properties.
