For the past year, the pursuit of radiant, healthy skin has taken the beauty world by storm, with the term “glass skin” leading the charge. Originating from Korean beauty trends, glass skin is simply a term that describes a complexion that is luminous, smooth, plump, and seemingly poreless—resembling the clarity of glass.
But achieving this skin ideal goes beyond skincare product layering and TikTok trends… At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we believe in addressing the skin holistically with a science-based approach to bring out your most radiant and luminous glow.
Table of contents
- What is Glass Skin Really?
- Avoiding Glass Skin Social Media Trends
- Skin Concerns to Work On to Achieve Glass Skin
- Skincare Treatments for Glass Skin
- Lifestyle Changes to Help Achieve Glass Skin
- Conclusion
What Is Glass Skin Really?
Glass skin is more than just a trend; it’s the epitome of skin health. It’s about achieving a hydrated, clear, and refined complexion that reflects light like glass. This is not a make-up trick or a temporary fix. Glass skin is the result of consistent care, using the right skincare products and treatments tailored to your unique skin type.
Simply put, Glass skin is a term to describe your skin when it is at its healthiest.
Avoiding Glass Skin Social Media Trends
From slugging and snailing to salmon sperm and skin taping, we’ve seen it all… While social media offers inspiration, it’s important to approach skincare trends with caution. Not every viral hack or miracle product is suited to your skin’s individual needs. Yes, your skin is as unique as you are and requires an individualised approach in order to achieve your desired results. Also, how many of these tips, tricks and hacks are backed by science?
Following generic advice can lead to irritation, imbalance, or even long-term damage. At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we advocate for professional guidance to create a bespoke skincare plan that is designed to treat your unique concerns in a bespoke way.
Skin Concerns to Work On to Achieve Glass Skin
To achieve glass skin (luminous, smooth, plump), addressing key skin concerns is essential. These include:
Texture
Uneven skin texture can prevent light from reflecting uniformly. This can be caused by skin dehydration, a buildup of dead skin cells, scarring, or a lack of regular exfoliation. Treatments like customised chemical peels, microneedling with specialised actives, and laser resurfacing (such as the Erbium iPixel Pro) help to smooth and refine the surface of the skin, making it more even and radiant.
Pores
Enlarged pores can disrupt the clarity of the skin and be caused by many factors, including aging, hormonal imbalances, genetics, sun damage, oily skin, and more). Deep-cleaning treatments like chemical peels and pore-minimising laser treatments (Erbium iPixel Pro and CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing for example) and 3D Microneedling treatments can reduce pore visibility, leaving the skin looking more refined and polished.
Pigmentation
Dark spots, melasma, and uneven tone can diminish the skin’s radiance. Pigmentation is often the result of sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation. Brightening treatments such as Lumecca IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), Cosmelan Depigmentation, ME LINE Chemical Peels, and prescription-strength skincare products target hyperpigmentation effectively to create a more uniform and luminous complexion.
Sun Damage
UV exposure compromises skin health by causing premature aging, dark spots, and a dull appearance. Repairing and protecting against sun damage is vital. Treatments like TCA Chemical Peels, the I-Peel-L Bespoke, and the consistent use of high-SPF sunscreen help to repair damage and prevent further harm.
Dehydration
Hydration is the cornerstone of glass skin. Dehydrated skin appears dull, lacks elasticity, and is prone to fine lines. Incorporating deep skin hydration treatments like Mesotherapy and Skin Boosters, the “red carpet-ready” FORMA HydraLyft and ensuring a robust at-home skin hydration routine (think hyaluronic acid-based serums) keep the skin plump, glowing, and radiantly reflective.
Fine Lines & Wrinkles
Early signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, can detract from the smooth, flawless look associated with glass skin. Treatments like Bio Skin Remodelling, the TriDerma Bespoke, 3D MD PRP (platelet-rich plasma), and Harmony XL Pro’s ClearLift (to name just a few) stimulate collagen production to reduce the appearance of these lines, creating a smoother surface.
Skin Redness and Vascularity
Conditions like rosacea, broken capillaries, or general redness can interfere with an even skin tone. Treatments such as Lumecca IPL (Intense Pulsed Lasers), LED light therapy, and calming skincare products can effectively reduce redness and improve overall skin clarity.
Lifestyle Changes to Help Achieve Glass Skin
Skincare treatments are only part of the equation. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can have a real impact on your results and offer a luminous glow from within:
Hydrate
Water is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and a dewy appearance. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, and consider incorporating hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges into your diet. Proper hydration helps flush out toxins and keeps the skin plump and glowing.
Balanced Diet
What you eat has a direct impact on your skin’s health. Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, to support the skin barrier. Antioxidant-packed fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, spinach, and sweet potatoes, combat free radicals and promote a radiant complexion. Avoid processed foods and excessive sugar, which can trigger inflammation and dullness.
Sleep
Beauty sleep is real! Your skin repairs itself during deep sleep, making it essential to get 7-9 hours of quality rest each night. Invest in a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent fine lines, and establish a calming bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep.
Sun Protection
Sun damage is one of the biggest barriers to achieving glass skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even when indoors. Reapply every 2 hours when exposed to direct sunlight, and wear protective clothing and hats for added protection.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, which manifest as breakouts, redness, and premature aging. Practice mindfulness techniques like yoga, meditation, or journaling to keep stress levels in check. Regular exercise also helps improve circulation, giving your skin a healthy glow.
Avoid Harmful Habits
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can dehydrate the skin, accelerate aging, and diminish your overall complexion. Limit or eliminate these habits to maintain youthful and vibrant skin.
Consistency Is Key
Achieving glass skin requires dedication. Stick to a skincare routine tailored to your needs, and be patient as you incorporate these lifestyle changes. The results will be worth the effort!
Ready For Your Most Luminous Skin Yet?
Achieving glass skin (your healthiest, most luminous skin ever) is a journey of consistency, care, and professional guidance. At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we are committed to helping you unlock your skin’s potential with bespoke treatments and expert advice. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward your most radiant complexion.
Ready to start your bespoke skin journey to radical radiance? Email us at skinclinic@drnwilkinson.co.za to schedule your personalised consultation and discover the path to your most luminous skin yet.
