As someone who has been obsessed with achieving that glass skin glow, I’ve tried almost every ingredient out there. Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of failures, but after years of experience, I have enough expertise in this area. Here are 10 essential ingredients used to create the flawless glass skin effect. 

 

1.Hyaluronic Acid

This does miracles to my skin. Hyaluronic acid improves collagen and elastin production, keeping my skin feeling more moisturized than ever before. The famous Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining serum contains hyaluronic acid and it was able to give me a glass skin complexion almost immediately. 

2. Niacinamide

Niacinamide has helped my skin with hyperpigmentation – removing redness from acne, and inflammatory scars. It also helps to reduce pore sizes, to control excess oil production. This leaves my skin with a uniform complexion. Personally, I recommend the Beauty of Joseon, Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide, the honey scent is amazing and it is perfect for the winter. It can leave a more dewy finish 

3.Vitamin C

Vitamin C has a myriad of different benefits. It is known for brightening, helping collagen production, and reducing wrinkles – ultimately improving skin texture and appearance. 

Some recommendations : The ordinary Ascorbic Acid 8% + Alpha Arbutin 2% 30ml , OLE HENRIKSEN Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum 

Bonus tip: Don’t use Vitamin C with certain ingredients like retinol, due to differences in pH and varying water/ oil solubilities.  

4.Centella Asiatica

To those sensitive skin girlies, this herb is for you. Centella Asiatica (also known as cica), can help with inflamed, irritated, and dry skin. Also used in Indian medicine, it is an anti-aging remedy that has been for thousands of years. It’s fantastic for soothing and repairing the skin barrier, giving a smooth, translucent look. 

 

5.Green Tea

Green tea isn’t just for drinking, it’s often used in skincare as well! This antioxidant-rich ingredient is amazing for reducing inflammation and fighting signs of aging. I love the ISNtree Green Tea Fresh Toner – it feels so refreshing and gives my skin a subtle glow. 

6.Snail Mucin

Snail slime on your face? Gross! 

This product initially became popular in South Korea, and its influence spread to global markets, with its value being over 600 million in 2024.  This substance consists of many antioxidants, which boost skin regeneration, minimize wrinkles, and even out my skin tone. It always leaves my skin hydrated, especially with a snail mucin face mask. 

Recently, the COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence has gone viral. It deeply hydrates my skin and makes it brighter. As a person with sensitive skin, even after using it, my skin feels perfectly fine – so don’t worry about those allergies. 

 

7.Rice Bran Water

Don’t underestimate rice bran water. From its humble beginnings in the kitchen, it can soften and brighten the skin. I started incorporating it into my routine after a trip to Japan, and I swear my skin has never looked better. 

8.Peptides

Being part of the protein family, peptides are made up of condensation reactions of 2 or more amino acids joining together.  They’re great for boosting collagen production and firming up the elastin fibers, which is essential for that glass-skin look. I use a peptide serum at night (The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum).   and I swear I wake up looking like I’ve had a full 8 hours of sleep (even when I’ve been binge-watching K-dramas until 2 AM).

 

9.Beta Glucan

Beta-glucan is like hyaluronic acid’s cooler, more effective cousin. It’s incredibly hydrating and has some impressive skin-soothing properties. I’d highly recommend using products with Beta Glucan in the dry winters, as this substance can penetrate deeply into the skin, giving you the perfect glow. 

 

10.Propolis

Last but not least, we have propolis. This bee-derived ingredient is a powerhouse of antioxidants and has some impressive antibacterial properties. It’s been a lifesaver for keeping my skin clear and glowy, especially during those stress-induced breakout periods. 

 

Remember achieving glass skin isn’t just about using products. It’s about finding the right combination that works for your skin type. Don’t be afraid to experiment, but always patch-test new ingredients. Be patient and your skin will look flawless in no time 🙂