What is 'glass skin'? How to achieve the latest Korean beauty look

Terms like dewy, fresh and radiant are often casually thrown about when it comes to talking about skin. None of them need much explanation and they all refer to that fresh-faced, well-rested glow that most of us wish we woke up with every morning. The latest term that has been thrown into the mix is ‘glass’, but is it really any different to what's come before?  

What is glass skin?

Think smooth, flawless, poreless skin with a beautiful, almost ethereal sheen to it. Mul-gwang is the Korean term for this finish, but it's also been described as water glow or sheer skin, and it's less about make-up and much more about a strategic, effective skincare regiment.   

Is it easy to achieve?

Few of us are blessed with naturally flawless skin, however a stringent skincare routine will help bring you closer. LA-based make-up artist Ellie Choi documented her at-home regime on social media a few months back and it went viral. 

Unsurprisingly, double cleansing with an oil-based formula (we love Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, ￡41) and then a cream, try LixirSkin Electrogel Cleanser, ￡22, is the first step as this removes any leftover make-up, dirt and grime without stripping your skin. 

Hydrating essences really come into their own when achieving 'glass skin' and take a matter of seconds to apply. Not to be confused with traditional and often drying toners, the new generation of essences help to replenish skin. Look to Blithe Vital Treatment Pulp Essence 8 Nourishing Beans, ￡43, and apply using clean hands or a cotton pad after you've cleansed. 

If you have time, applying a hydrating sheet mask, such as Erborian Bamboo Shot Sheet Mask, ￡6, supercharges your skin. Then, massage in your moisturiser - ideally you want something lightweight but seriously hydrating. Choi recommends Wonjin Effect Water Bomb, which is currently out of stock. However, Institut Esthederm Intensive Hyaluronic Mask, ￡31, is the perfect substitute.   

For those battling with breakouts or blocked pores, CosRX Silk Finger Balls, ￡8, make light work of pesky blackheads and a block of LED Light Therapy treatments at Skin Laundry will help balance and brighten your complexion. 

Can you fake it?

While it is tricky to create that translucent sheen with make-up alone, there are ways to ramp up the gloss. Both Milk Make-up Face Gloss, $20 (Sephora ships to the UK), and 3 Concept Eyes Glass Gloss, ￡9, can provide flattering light reflection when applied to the eyelids, cheek bones and Cupid's bow.

Only time will tell if 'glass skin' takes off in the UK, but in the meantime who wouldn't want to give their skin a little bit of TLC...