Step By Step: The Best Skincare Products To Achieve That Glass Skin Look!

Ever found yourself scrolling through social media and stumbled upon someone with shiny skin that seemed to have an inner glow? We’re talking about a smooth complexion where pores are seemingly absent and fine lines are nowhere to be sighted. It’s not photo editing skills but actually, a trend called Glass Skin.

The glass skin look actually started in South Korea, where all great beauty trends stem from. While western beauty standards are getting that sun-kissed, bronzed look, Asian standards differ from embodying and encouraging one’s natural beauty. This is the reason why our makeup looks are more on the minimal side.

Sounds appealing, right? But, how do you get it? Don’t fret because we’ve got you covered. As skincare lovers ourselves, we’ve gotten on board the glass skin train too! With that, carry on reading as Beauty Insider will give you a step-by-step skincare routine on how to achieve glass skin!

Cleanser

First things first, we need to start cleansing. You want to make sure you’re using the right cleanser for your skin type. This is vital because you don’t want to overly strip your skin of your natural moisture and oils. However, we also want to start our routine with a squeaky-clean face. Therefore, we’ve listed out your skin type and the best cleansers to use:

Dry Skin: Your skin is clutching to every drop of moisture for dear life so your cleansers should be high in humectants. However, you also need it to be effective enough to cleanse your skin and restore hydration back. The types of cleansers you want to go for are in gel, milk or cream form.

Oily Skin: Most cleansers on the market are designed for oily skin which are foaming cleansers. These cleansers tend to have higher surfactants and are able to really cleanse your skin of all that oil. Foam 

Combination Skin: You have the best of both worlds therefore it’s best you alternate between our cleanser suggestions from dry and oily skin. It’s best you identify yourself if your skin is feeling a little dry then reach for a gel cleanser. If your skin is oily after a long day, then you should opt for a foam cleanser.

Sensitive Skin: Steer far away from cleansers that are high in fragrance. Those with sensitive skin need a cleanser that is gentle, soothing yet manages to get the job done. You should opt for cleansers in gel form as they will penetrate deeper into your skin.

Recommendations

1. Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil

The Klairs Gentle Black Deep Cleansing Oil is an oil-based cleanser that is suitable for those with dry skin. It has the benefit to help remove dirt and unclogged pores. Besides that, this cleanser is also quite gentle and effective! With a formula that is hypoallergenic, it gently protects, cleanses and moisturises the skin. 

Why we love it:

• Hypoallergenic
• Suitable for all skin types
• Removes makeup

Price: RM85.00

Where to buy: Threebs

2. Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser

If you have oily skin, you know that your best ingredient is salicylic acid! The Mario Badescu Acne Facial Cleanser has just that. Along with ingredients such as chamomile and aloe vera, this cleanser helps soothe and treat breakouts. It also has the benefit of helping exfoliate your skin gently for a glowing complexion!

Why we love it:

• Treats acne
• Soothes irritated skin
• Gently exfoliates the skin

Price: RM85.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash

For those with combination skin, the Origins Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash is a great balance! It is a foaming cleanser that contains wheat extract and broadleaf kelp extract within its formula. These ingredients work together to help provide hydration to the dry patches on your skin. Besides that, it also helps control your skin’s production of oil while keeping your skin feeling fresh!

Why we love it:

• Suitable for all skin types
• Soothes irritated skin
• Balances the skin’s oil production

Price: RM117.00

Where to buy: Sephora

4. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser

Cetaphil is a cult favourite and its Gentle Skin Cleanser is mild and soap-free. Not only a best-seller, but it is also most people’s go-to cleanser. This is because its formula is mild, non-greasy and lightweight. Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin, this dermatologist-recommended cleanser is Non-comedogenic. Besides that, it also helps prevent the stripping of moisture from your skin. 

Why we love it:

• Dermatologically-tested
• Won’t clog pores
• Perfect for sensitive skin

Price: RM53.60

Where to buy: Watsons

Exfoliate

When it comes to achieving glass skin, you need to be incredibly gentle with your skin. You want to retain bounciness and suppleness and being rough with your skin will not give you that. Instead of using a physical exfoliator like a scrub or enzyme powder, choose a chemical exfoliator.

Additionally, chemical exfoliators are usually in the form of a thin watery liquid that causes no harsh scrubbing of the skin to exfoliate. It’s all about leaving it to sink into our skin and exfoliate on its own.

Exfoliating is an important step. Our skin constantly turns over cells however our dead skin cells tend to stay on our skin. Therefore, by exfoliating, you are promoting skin cell rejuvenation so you’ll constantly have new healthy skin. However, ensure that you’re not over-exfoliating and only do it 3 times a week.

Recommendations

1. The Inkey List Lactic Acid Exfoliant

The Inkey List Lactic Acid Exfoliant has the benefits to help make your skin look brighter. At the same time, it also provides your skin with additional hydration! Besides that, it also has the benefit to help get rid of dead skin cells on the surface of your skin. Suitable for all types of skin, this exfoliant will help leave your skin feeling smooth!

Why we love it:

• Brightens and evens skin tone
• Hydrate the skin
• Leaves skin feeling soft

Price: RM48.00

Where to buy: Threebs

2. Kiehl’s Men’s Oil Eliminator Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Face Wash

We haven’t forgotten about the men and the Kiehl’s Men’s Oil Eliminator Deep Cleansing Exfoliating Face Wash is perfect. This is a daily exfoliating cleanser that has the benefit of washing away impurities. Thus, leaving your skin feeling soft. Besides that, it also has the benefit to help get rid of pollution, sweat and excess oil to reduce shine on your appearance. Its formula contains crushed apricot seeds which help slough away dead skin cells without drying the skin. 

Why we love it:

• Suitable for oily skin
• Leaves skin feeling soft
• Doesn’t leave skin feeling tight

Price: RM100.00

Where to buy: Kiehl’s

3. Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant

Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant is a cult favourite and worldwide number 1 product. This exfoliant is actually a leave-on product and contains salicylic acid inside its formula. Therefore, it has the benefit to help unclog pores, smoothen wrinkles as well as even out and brighten skin tones. BHA helps get rid of built-up layers of skin. It also has a texture that is lightweight and absorbs quickly. 

Why we love it:

• Doesn’t need to be washed off
• Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Evens out skin tone

Price: RM165.00

Where to buy: Paula’s Choice Malaysia

Toner

Many skincare gurus will tell you that toners are unnecessary however when it comes to glass skin, this step is vital and skipping is out of the question. Toners will help hydrate your skin which will allow the rest of your product following to maximise its efficiency.

Now that we’ve convinced you that you absolutely need a toner in your routine, for glass skin applying toner can be a little intense. This is because you are required to layer your toner. It is said that you need to layer your toner up to 7 times but 3 to 5 times is still acceptable. This will provide immense hydration to the skin and trust us, your skin will thank you for it.

Recommendations

1. Pixi Glow Tonic

The Pixi Glow Tonic is a cult favourite that has the benefit to help get rid of dead skin cells. It does this and reveals healthy skin that is glowing, refined and feels smoother as well. It is suitable for skin types such as oily, combination, normal and dry. It is also a gentle exfoliating toner that helps brighten up the skin. It has a formula that is hypoallergenic and made with botanical extracts. Ingredients such as ginseng and aloe vera have the benefit to help soothe skin that is sensitive. 

Why we love it:

• Leaves skin looking luminous
• Suitable for all skin types
• Hypoallergenic

Price: RM70.00

Where to buy: Sephora

2. First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner

For those struggling with uneven skin texture and dryness, check out the First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner. It is a toner powered by oatmeal to help relieve, hydrate and soothe the skin. Besides being free from alcohol, it also supports the skin for an overall balanced complexion. Its formula contains ingredients that are clean and skin-loving as well. With ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, honey and propolis extract, it is suitable for most skin types.

Why we love it:

• Alcohol-free
• Hydrates the skin
• Soothes irritated skin

Price: RM100.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. Cosrx Propolis Synergy Toner

The Cosrx Propolis Synergy Toner contains 72% black propolis extract that offers anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. At the same time, it also helps boost the skin’s healing properties. Along with 10% of honey extract, it is also able to provide the skin with moisture. Thus increasing the skin’s elasticity and boosting its radiance. It has a texture that absorbs rather quickly and leaves a refreshing, supple and dewy finish. 

Why we love it:

• Brightens and evens the skin tone
• Helps treat acne
• Hydrates the skin

Price: RM65.00

Where to buy: Threebs

Essence

Many are often unsure if essences are needed in a skincare routine because most people think a toner and serum will do their job. Despite that, an essence is very important. The texture is usually lightweight and is meant to penetrate deeper into the skin like a toner but has the power of a serum. Serums tend to have a larger molecular size that only reaches just deep enough to be effective.

Therefore, implementing an essence will truly improve your routine and maximise its effectiveness. Essences tend to have anti-ageing ingredients that will help create a bouncy complexion and also smooth out textured skin.

Recommendations

1. Laneige Water Bank Hydro Mist 

The Laneige Water Bank Hydro Mist has the benefit to help fortify your skin barrier to achieve healthy skin. It has a formula that is enriched with green mineral water, derived from vegetables. Besides that, this essence also has the benefit to help provide your skin with moisture. Not only is it fast-absorbing, but it also helps trap moisture to prevent it from evaporating. Applying a generous amount to your face can help achieve a glowing complexion!

Why we love it:

• Provides long-lasting hydration
• Absorbs into skin easily
• Restores the skin barrier

Price: RM190.00

Where to buy: Sephora

2. Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Antioxidant Essence

An essence that is a best-seller in Malaysia is the Fresh Black Tea Kombucha Antioxidant Essence. Its formula is power-packed with ingredients that your skin loves such as hyaluronic acid, kombucha, mandarin peel extract and Africana fruit extract. Besides that, this essence also acts as a protector for your skin against external aggressors. It also has the benefit to help with anti-ageing due to its glow-enhancing formula. 

Why we love it:

• Has anti-ageing properties
• Deeply hydrates the skin
• Protects against pollutants

Price: RM320.00

Where to buy: Sephora

3. OLAY White Radiance Light Perfecting Essence Serum

A popular brand in Malaysia is OLAY and its White Radiance Light Perfecting Essence Serum provides great benefits too. It has the benefit to help make your skin look supple, dewy and smooth! Besides that, it also helps lighten and brighten your skin tone, while enhancing your skin’s radiance from within. It also has a texture that is quick-absorbing and light, while not being greasy. With a refreshing blend of rose and jasmine, it really wakes you up! 

Why we love it:

• Brightens skin
• Leaves skin looking luminous
• Has a pleasant floral scent

Price: RM63.68

Where to buy: Watsons

Serum

Don’t lie, serums are the best part of the routine! Many people always wonder what skincare product you should actually invest serious dollars in and trust us, you do not want to cheap out on serums. This is the part of the skincare routine that truly matters when you are trying to target specific skin concerns.

Serums are formulated to be intensely potent yet in a liquid form to ensure swift penetration when it hits our skin. This will then seep deep into our skin and nourish it from within. When going for glass skin, it’s pivotal that you get an ultra-hydrating serum!

Recommendations

1. Skinned Co “Lock & Stay” Rice Serum

Check out Skinned Co. A local skincare brand that has a great “Lock & Stay” Rice Serum. It is lightweight and has a texture that is water-based. Its formula also contains botanic extracts that are potent to help strengthen our skin’s moisture balance. Besides that, it is also rich in ingredients that are self-repairing and antioxidants! For example, Pro-Vitamin B5 and Ceramides help with restoring our skin’s barrier function. Suitable for all skin types, it contains Aloe Vera, Green Tea, Rice Bran and Grape Seed extracts to soothe dry and sensitive skin.

Why we love it:

• Restores and repairs the skin barrier
• Easily absorbed into the skin
• Deeply moisturises the skin

Price: RM136.00

Where to buy: Skinned 

2. Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA Miracle Serum

The Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA Miracle Serum is suitable even for easily irritated skin. It has the benefit to help calm the skin and contains 14.77% Centella Asiatica Extract and 10,000 ppm Teatree Leaf Water. The presence of AHAs, BHAs and PHAs also help get rid of dead skin cells, impurities, as well as control the skin’s oil-moisture balance. Thus, it can help your skin look healthy and smooth! Besides having a formula that has a low pH level, it also contains patented ingredients. 

Why we love it:

• Soothes and calms the skin
• Gently exfoliates the skin
• Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin

Price: RM76.00

Where to buy: Watsons 

3. Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum

The Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum is suitable for normal, dry, combination and oily skin. It is super hydrating as it contains 5 weights of hyaluronic acid and juicy plum. Thus it has the benefit to penetrate and hydrating each layer of your skin. It is also lightweight and has the benefit to help reduce the appearance of fine lines. With ingredients such as vegan collagen and silk protein, it helps fight against free radicles and support a skin barrier that looks healthy. 

Why we love it:

• Deeply hydrates the skin
• Easily absorbed into the skin
• Reduces appearance of fine lines

Price: RM190.00

Where to buy: Sephora

Moisturiser

Whether you have dry skin or oily skin, you NEED moisturiser. Many presume that moisturisers should only be used by those with dry skin but that is false! There is a big difference between having greasy skin and neglecting the skin until it’s parched which will only make your skin even oilier! This is a natural bodily response where the skin distresses due to dehydration where it then proceeds to create more oil than needed.

Therefore, moisturising your skin is an important step that you must skip. There are many types of formulas out there and for glass skin, you want a water-based moisturiser. This, in turn, will leave your skin hydrated yet rocking that dewy look!

Recommendations

1. The Ordinary Natural Moisturising Factors + HA

One of our cult favourites is The Ordinary and their Natural Moisturising Factors + HA is a great moisturiser. Its formula contains ingredients that are low-risk such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, ceramides and linoleic acid. Providing long-lasting hydration, it also absorbs quickly if it is suitable for your skin! It is more suitable for those with moderate dry skin as it will moisturise without feeling heavy. 

Why we love it:

• Doesn’t feel greasy or heavy
• Affordable
• Easily absorbed into the skin

Price: RM37.00

Where to buy: Cosmetics Now

2. CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30

If you are looking for a daytime moisturiser, check out the CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion Broad Spectrum SPF 30! Not only does it contain SPF, but it also contains ceramides, hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Even though it may smell like your typical sunscreen, it doesn’t feel like one at all! With its dual-functionality, it is great for those with dry and sensitive skin.

Why we love it:

• Protects skin from UV rays
• Nourishes the skin
• Suitable for all skin types

Price: RM119.00

Where to buy: Threebs

3. Origins Ginzing Oil-Free Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer

For those with oily and combination skin types, the Origins Ginzing Oil-Free Energy-Boosting Gel Moisturizer is your pick. This moisturiser is oil-free and is energy-boosting as well. Providing 72-hours of hydration, it has the benefit to help wake up skin that is dull and lacklustre. Thus, helping your skin achieve its natural radiance. The presence of ginseng also helps revitalise and refresh your skin. Along with Hydra-Hug Technology, it is able to retain moisture to recharge your skin. 

Why we love it:

• Boosts the skin’s radiance
• Has a clean, citrus scent
• Provides long-lasting hydration

Price: RM85.00

Where to buy: Sephora

4. Safi Perfect White Illuminating Day Cream SPF20PA++

Safi Perfect White Illuminating Day Cream SPF20PA++ is expertly formulated with botanical extracts and vitamin B3 for a radiant and luminous complexion. It features Ultra White Technology which comprises Nano BioWhite and antioxidant-rich-Kakadu plum to brighten the skin tone effectively. Nano BioWhite can penetrate deep into the skin to diminish the appearance of dark spots and Kakadu plum contains a whopping 100 times more vitamin C than an orange for a healthy-looking complexion. Plus, this day cream is also clinically proven to combat dark spots formation for flawless looking skin. Apart from its ability to strengthen the skin barrier, it also protects the skin from harmful UV rays.

Why we love it:

• Brightens and evens the skin tone
• Restores the skin barrier
• Protects the skin from UV rays

Price: RM24.15

Where to buy: Guardian

5. Safi Hydra Glow Hydrating Water Drop Moisturiser

Get your glow up with the Safi Hydra Glow Hydrating Water Drop Moisturiser. This gel-cream moisturiser is formulated with Hydra Active³ Technology which incorporates three powerful hydrating ingredients to deliver intense hydration. It harnesses the power of fermented rice extract to boost skin luminosity and vitamin B5 to retain the moisture level minimising the risk of dryness. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it retains the moisture level and boosts skin elasticity for bouncy looking skin. With its efficacy and impeccable formulation, this highly-rated moisturiser is a godsend product.

Why we love it:

• Affordable
• Intensely hydrating
• Suitable for both day and night use

Price: RM39.90

Where to buy: Guardian

Sunscreen

Don’t step out to the world sunscreen-less! We have applied many nourishing and hydrating products so it would be a shame to leave it unprotected. That is why sunscreen is a big NO-NO to simply skip. In fact, if you don’t wear sunscreen, your entire skincare routine prior would be less effective!

This is also the case if you’re working indoors. Sunscreen protects us from UV rays and free radicals and you are not safe anywhere from them during the daytime. This is why sunscreen is important and always remember to touch up every 3-4 hours.

Recommendations

1. Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA+++

If you are concerned about oiliness, check out the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 PA+++. Suitable for those with normal, dry, oily and combination skin, it has a cream texture that provides a radiant finish! Besides that, it also acts as a primer to help prep your skin for makeup. The SPF 40 protects from blue light and its formula is also rich in antioxidants.

Why we love it:

• Prepares the skin for makeup
• Doesn’t feel greasy
• Suitable for all skin types

Price: RM155.00

Where to buy: Sephora

2. La Roche Posay Anthelios Dry Touch SPF 50+ 

If you want a sunscreen that is super light and absorbs quickly, get the La Roche Posay Anthelios Dry Touch SPF 50+. It can withstand the weather in Malaysia as it contains high efficacy of sun filters as well as antioxidants that are powerful. It uses Cell-Ox Shield Technology to provide your skin with extra protection on a cellular level. Besides that, it’s also a winner of Allure’s Best of Facial Sunscreen! 

Why we love it:

• Fragrance-free
• Lightweight
• Leaves skin feeling velvety-soft

Price: RM95.12

Where to buy: Watsons 

3. Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion

The Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lotion is one of the best sunscreens in Malaysia. It is suitable especially for those that are sports enthusiasts. Not only is it affordable, but it provides heavy-duty protection! Thus, it can stay on even in the worst conditions. Besides that, this high-quality sunscreen has the benefit of locking active ingredients. 

Why we love it:

• Doesn’t leave skin feeling greasy
• Affordable
• Sweat-resistant

Price: RM17.26

Where to buy: Watsons

Treatment

Lastly, it’s time to treat yourself, beautiful! Giving yourself weekly treatments is essential to achieving glass skin. Put on a sheet mask or a clay mask or go down to the spa for a much-needed self-love session. So, what are you waiting for? Get glowing!

Recommendations

1. Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Color Clay Mask 

Coming in a variety of 4 colours, the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Color Clay Mask can help with different skin concerns! Each colour provides different benefits. The yellow helps with brightening and contains vitamin C. The blue clay mask contains hyaluronic acid and is great for hydration. The green is a cica clay mask and is great for sebum control. Lastly, the black clay mask has the benefits to help purify your skin. Take your pick!

Why we love it:

• Treats different skin concerns
• Suitable for all skin types
• Easily washed off

Price: RM37.00

Where to buy: Innisfree

2. Mary&May Calendula Peptide Ageless Sleeping Mask

Let the Calendula Peptide Ageless Sleeping Mask do all the work for you while you sleep! This vegan overnight mask is packed with real Calendula Officinalis flower petals at 2,200 ppm. Calendula is a super anti-inflammatory ingredient that will melt into your skin to soothe any itchiness, acne, or dry patches. This sleeping mask is also formulated with guaiazulene, which hydrates and lowers the temperature of the skin. Not only that, but it also contains 25 types of peptides to promote collagen production and deliver essential nutrients to the epidermis, leaving you with a more youthful glow! In just one use, your skin will be restored and replenished, and you’ll be ready to take on the day. Apply generously to the skin, and wait for the Calendula Peptide Ageless Sleeping Mask to work its magic to deeply hydrate and nourish dry skin.

Why we love it:

• Vegan
• Intensely soothing, nourishing, and hydrating
• Promotes collagen production for anti-ageing benefits

Price: RM70

Where to buy: Shopee

3. Fresh Rose Face Mask 

The Fresh Rose Face Mask has a gel formula and is a wash-off mask. It is suitable for sensitive, dry, oily, combination and normal skin. It has the benefit to help with dryness and visible pores as well. Formulated with real rose petals, this face mask is hydrating and gently soothes and tones your face. Thus achieving a plumping effect! Besides that, it also helps cool and brighten up your face!

Why we love it:

• Suitable for all skin types
• Contains real rose petals
• Has a floral scent

Price: RM110.00

Where to buy: Sephora 

4. Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Calming Mask

The Dr.Jart+ Cicapair Calming Mask is a peel-off sheet mask that helps with dullness, acne, dryness and blemishes. Although it is great for sensitive skin types, it is also suitable for other skin types. This calming sheet mask is also 100% derived from plants and helps soothe and calm irritated skin. 

Why we love it:

• Has a unique jelly-like texture
• Suitable for all skin types
• Soothes irritated skin

Price: RM72.79

Where to buy: Amazon

Author: Nina Shahriman | Date: 12th January 2021