We’ve all scrolled through Instagram, mesmerized by those glowing, poreless complexions that look like they’ve been dipped in liquid light. The “glass makeup” trend isn’t just about looking dewy—it’s about achieving that I-woke-up-like-this radiance that screams healthy, hydrated, and effortlessly chic. But here’s the catch: This look can go sideways fast. Too much glow? You’ll look like a greasy takeout box. Too little? It’s just…meh.
As a glass makeup artist who’s battled oily skin, dry patches, and every texture in between, I’ve cracked the code to nailing this trend. Let’s ditch the AI-generated fluff and get into the real secrets—no robot jargon, just human-approved tips.
Step 1: Skincare Isn’t Optional
Glass makeup is 70% skincare, 30% product. If your skin isn’t prepped, even the most expensive highlighter won’t save you.
What works and what doesn’t :
Cleanse like you mean it: Skip the harsh scrubs. Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser (think CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser) to avoid stripping your skin. If you’re flaky, try a konjac sponge—it’s like a mini spa treatment.
Hydrate like you’re thirsty: Layer a hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin. My go-to? The Inkey List’s Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Follow with a lightweight moisturizer (La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair is magic). If you’re dry as the Sahara, slugging with a tiny dab of Aquaphor at night will change your life.
Sunscreen is non-negotiable: Use a dewy SPF. Supergoop Glowscreen is my ride-or-die—it’s like Instagram’s “Golden Hour” filter in a tube.
Pro Confession: I once skipped exfoliating before a photoshoot. The foundation clung to my dry patches like glitter to a kindergarten craft. Lesson learned.
Step 2: Prime Like You’re Prepping a Canvas
Primer is your secret weapon. But not all primers are created equal:
Oily skin? Use the Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Mattifying Primer only on your T-zone. Everywhere else, slap on a hydrating primer (e.g., Elf Halo Glow).
Dry skin? Try the Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer—it’s like a tall glass of water for your face.
Step 3: Foundation? Keep It Sheer & Strategic
Put down the full-coverage matte foundation. Seriously. Glass skin is about your skin, just better.
Sheer is superior: Mix a tinted moisturizer (Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint) with 1-2 drops of liquid highlighter (CoverFX Custom Enhancer Drops in “Moonlight”). Apply with a damp Beautyblender—pat, don’t rub.
Spot-conceal like a ninja: Use a creamy concealer (Kosas Revealer Concealer) only where you need it. Dab under eyes, around nostrils, and on blemishes. Blend with your ring finger—the warmth melts it into skin.
Hot Tip: If your foundation starts separating, spray MAC Fix+ on your sponge and press it into your skin. Crisis averted.
Step 4: The Art of “Wet-Look” Highlighting
Forget blinding highlighters. Glass skin is about a lit-from-within glow.
Creams > Powders: Use a cream highlighter (Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer) on cheekbones, brow bones, and the tip of your nose. Tap it in with your fingers—it looks more natural.
The Korean trick: Apply a tiny amount of Vaseline or clear lip balm (Glossier Balm Dotcom) on the high points of your cheeks. Sounds weird, but it gives that “fresh sweat” glow (in a good way).
Confession: I once overdid the Vaseline and looked like I’d run a marathon. Less is more, folks.
Step 5: Glossy Eyes & Lips (Without the Stickiness)
Glossy eyelids scream “glass,” but nobody wants their lids stuck together.
Eyes: Pat a shimmer eyeshadow (Urban Decay Space Cowboy) on the center of your lids. Add a tiny dab of Fenty Gloss Bomb in “Fussy” on the inner corners.
Lips: Skip the matte lippies. Use a plumping gloss (Too Faced Lip Injection Maximum Plump) or a hydrating tint (Dior Lip Glow Oil).
Pro Hack: Keep a Q-tip in your bag to fix gloss smudges. You’re welcome.
Step 6: Set It—But Don’t Murder the Glow
Yes, you need to set your glass makeup. No, you shouldn’t use enough powder to bake a cake.
Dewy setting spray: Morphe Continuous Setting Mist is affordable and doesn’t leave a white cast. Close your eyes and spray in an “X” and “T” motion.
Oily zones only: Dip a fluffy brush into a translucent powder (Hourglass Veil Translucent Powder) and lightly press it on your T-zone.
Step 7: Blush That Looks Like You’re Alive
Cream blushes are your BFF. Apply Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Happy” to the apples of your cheeks and blend upward. For extra dimension, layer a peach shade (Glossier Cloud Paint in “Dawn”) underneath your highlighter.
Real Talk: Common Mistakes
Over-powdering: You’ll look dusty, not dewy.
Skipping skincare: No serum = no glass.
Using glitter: This isn’t 2009. Stick to pearl or champagne highlights.
Adapt for Your Skin Type
Oily: Blotting papers (Clean & Clear) are your lifeline. Use them before reapplying gloss.
Dry: Add 1 drop of face oil (The Ordinary Rosehip Oil) to your foundation.
Acne-prone: Spot-conceal with a green color corrector (LA Girl Pro Conceal) before foundation.
Final Thought: Own Your Glow
The glass makeup look isn’t about perfection—it’s about celebrating your skin. Some days, your glow will be “I just had 8 hours of sleep.” Other days, it’ll be “I survived three coffees and a Zoom marathon.” Both are beautiful.
Grab your products, embrace the shine, and remember: The best glass makeup is the kind that makes you feel like you—just a little extra sparkly.