Image Credit: Space NK
Glass skin is a term that has been around for a few years now. And for me, achieving that glass skin look basically means not having to wear makeup or much at all while my skin looks as hydrated and glowy as possible. Since putting together this routine, my really parched and dry skin genuinely looks so much healthier. And even though it can take a few minutes more than doing a basic three step routine, I feel like the extra time is well warranted.
So, today I'm sharing my glass skin routine and some of the essential products to achieve that look.
Double cleanse
We all know how important it is to cleanse our skin. Ad as someone who only cleanses at night, after finding that my dry skin felt and looked so much better, double cleansing is key to make sure that you've removed all your makeup, SPF and any dirt or impurities from the day. I would always recommend starting with a cleansing balm or an oil-based cleanser first. Then you can follow it up with a water-based cleanser and your skin should be feeling squeaky clean afterward. Some of my favourites have to be Dermalogica's Pre Cleanse, Farmacy's Green Clean and the Kate Somerville Goat Milk Moisture Cleanser.
Credit: Space NK
Exfoliate
Next up, we have exfoliation, whether that's of the physical or chemical kind. And if you happen to have uneven skin texture, dry patches or struggle with breakouts, if you're not already exfoliating you are doing the rest of your skincare routine a disservice. This is because your moisturiser and other products won't be able to penetrate your skin if there's a layer of dead skin on top blocking it. I used to use physical exfoliants, such as scrubs, on my face but the dry skin would return a few days later. So, I now pretty much exclusively use chemical exfoliants and peels to keep my skin looking and feeling soft and smooth.
I actually worked on an article for IndyBest on the best chemical peels and so many of these have become staples in my routine.
Essence
Now, I have to admit, I was a bit sceptical of this additional step, particularly when I'm short on time. But I do think it makes a big difference, particularly if you have dry or dehydrated skin. Like my skin just drinks this up. There are now lots of choose from, depending on the skin issues that you have, with lots of great options for sensitive skin too. My favourites have got to be Curel's Hydrating Water Essence and the Fresh Kombucha Antioxidant Facial Treatment Essence. Both honestly feel like a big drink for my skin and have kept it feeling nice and hydrated all summer long this year.
Credit: Space NK
Serum
You might be asking yourself, aren't a serum and an essence basically the same thing. Well, not really. Serums are where you can target specific skin concerns and really focus on adding certain ingredients, such as retinols, vitamin C and more. Plus, it can even more hydration to the skin.
Moisturiser
Of course, a good face moisturizer or moisturiser is essential for getting that glass skin look. Opting for a gel-based one can be ideal over the warmer months and again, give you that glass-like consistency. And you can't go wrong with one which has hyaluronic acid as one of its main ingredients. I've been loving the Fresh Rose Hyaluronic Acid Deep Hydration Moisturizer, as well as the Vichy Minéral 89 72Hr Moisture Boosting Cream this year.
Credit: Space NK
SPF
And last but certainly not least, we have SPF. If you only use one skincare product in your routine (well I guess two since you'll need to remove it at the end of the day), make it an SPF that you enjoy applying. Ultimately, if you can find an SPF that almost looks and feels like a moisturiser or primer, you'll be much more likely to reach for it each morning. And my absolute ride or die SPFs have got to be Thank You Farmer's Sun Project Water Sun Cream and Ultra Violette's Supreme Screen Hydrating Facial Skinscreen, both of which are SPF 50+. But I'm always keen to put new SPFs to the test. For example, I've heard nothing but great things about La Roche-Posay's Hyalu B5 Aquagel for getting that glass skin look all day look.
So, there you have it, the skincare routine to follow if you're looking to achieve glass skin.
I know that you might not always want to do a multi-step skincare routine and I'm definitely guilty of being a little bit lazy from time to time. But as long as you dedicate a few evenings a week to taking your time and caring for your skin, you should have soft and glowy skin in no time.
Is glass skin something you strive for? And what does your current skincare routine look like?
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