As beauty trends come and go, two Korean skincare innovations have proven to be enduring: Glass Skin and Slugging. These trends, rooted in K-beauty (Korean beauty) traditions, focus on skin health through hydration, nourishment, and protection. Now embraced worldwide, they continue to transform skincare routines, offering glowing, healthy, and hydrated skin with simple, yet effective steps.
Glass Skin: Achieving a Radiant Glow
The concept of Glass Skin refers to achieving a smooth, clear complexion that shines with a natural, dewy glow—much like a sheet of glass. Unlike relying on highlighters or makeup to achieve an instant glow, Glass Skin emphasizes a dedicated skincare regimen aimed at naturally hydrated, even-toned skin.
To achieve Glass Skin, a multi-step routine is essential. The first step is double cleansing. The first cleanser, typically oil-based, removes makeup, excess oils, and impurities, while the second water-based cleanser helps maintain skin moisture and prevents dehydration.
Next, gentle exfoliation using AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) is crucial to slough off dead skin cells and reveal fresh, radiant skin. A lightweight, hydrating toner prepares the skin to absorb subsequent products, followed by an essence and serums that include key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C to lock in moisture and brighten the skin.
Finally, a moisturizer helps maintain hydration and skin elasticity, while sunscreen is applied during the day to protect the skin from UV damage.
Slugging: A Nighttime Skincare Game-Changer
Slugging is another popular K-beauty trend that involves applying an occlusive layer, such as petroleum jelly, as the final step in a nighttime skincare routine. This layer helps seal in moisture and prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), which is the evaporation of water from the skin.
Slugging is especially beneficial for individuals with dry or damaged skin barriers, as it helps maintain hydration and creates a protective shield against environmental stressors. Additionally, this trend enhances the penetration of other skincare products applied beforehand.
To start slugging, cleanse the skin gently, then apply a hydrating toner or serum, followed by a lightweight moisturizer. Finally, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or another occlusive balm. The layer will work overnight to lock in moisture, leaving the skin feeling deeply hydrated and soft by morning.
Why Glass Skin and Slugging Endure
Unlike many fleeting beauty trends, Glass Skin and Slugging have stood the test of time due to their emphasis on fundamental skincare principles: hydration, protection, and nourishment. Both methods focus on improving skin barrier health, a concept backed by dermatological research.
Additionally, these techniques can be customized to suit various skin types and budgets, as they rely on inexpensive and widely accessible products. Rather than masking imperfections with makeup, the goal is to prioritize skin health for a long-lasting, natural glow.
The global popularity of Korean beauty has only fueled the enduring appeal of Glass Skin and Slugging. As the beauty industry evolves, one thing remains clear: healthy, radiant skin will always be in style.
The Lasting Appeal of Skin-First Approaches
In a beauty landscape filled with ever-changing trends, the focus on skin health has remained a constant. Glass Skin and Slugging are prime examples of K-beauty techniques that not only address superficial beauty but also promote overall skin wellness. From deep hydration to barrier repair, these trends have proven their ability to provide real, long-lasting results, making them a cornerstone of skincare routines worldwide.
As the global beauty market continues to embrace the “skin-first” approach, Glass Skin and Slugging remain powerful tools in achieving that ultimate goal: healthy, glowing skin.
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