Why Are Indians Obsessed With 'Korean Glass Skin', Answers Expert Dermatologists

The fascination with Korean glass skin among Indians can be attributed to several factors, including cultural influences, beauty trends, and the desire for flawless and radiant skin. We Discussed with Dr Ishmeet Kaur and Dr Deepak Jakhar, Consultant Dermatologist at Dermosphere Clinic, Dwarka (New Delhi) regarding this recent interest about 'Korean glass skin'. Here are some reasons why Indians may be drawn to the concept of Korean glass skin:

1. Cultural Influence: South Korean pop culture, including K-pop music, television dramas, and movies, has gained significant popularity in India in recent years. The flawless and luminous skin of Korean celebrities often serves as a beauty standard and inspiration for many Indians.

2. Influence of K-Beauty Trends: The rise of Korean beauty (K-beauty) trends worldwide, characterized by innovative skincare products, multi-step routines, and a focus on achieving healthy and radiant skin, has captured the interest of beauty enthusiasts around the globe, including in India.

3. Social Media and Digital Influence: Social media platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and beauty blogs play a significant role in spreading beauty trends and inspiring individuals to experiment with new skincare routines and products. Indian beauty influencers and bloggers often share their experiences with K-beauty products and techniques, contributing to the popularity of Korean glass skin among Indian audiences.

4. Desire for Flawless Skin: Like many cultures, Indians value clear, luminous, and youthful-looking skin. The pursuit of flawless skin is deeply ingrained in Indian beauty traditions, where natural remedies and skincare rituals have been passed down through generations. The promise of achieving glass skin aligns with the Indian aesthetic ideal of beauty.

5. Effective Skincare Solutions: Korean skincare products are known for their innovative formulations, high-quality ingredients, and effectiveness in addressing various skin concerns, including dullness, dehydration, and uneven texture. The emphasis on hydration, brightening, and nourishment in K-beauty products resonates with individuals seeking solutions for their skincare issues.

6. Globalization and Accessibility: With the increasing globalization of beauty products and the rise of e-commerce platforms, Korean skincare products have become more accessible to consumers worldwide, including in India. The availability of a wide range of K-beauty brands and products allows Indians to explore and experiment with different skincare routines and techniques to achieve glass skin.

7. Aspirational Beauty Standards: The pursuit of beauty ideals, influenced by media, advertising, and societal norms, often leads individuals to seek out beauty trends and practices that promise to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence. Korean glass skin represents an aspirational beauty standard that appeals to many Indians seeking to elevate their skincare routines and achieve a radiant complexion.

Can Indians achieve ‘Korean Glass Skin’?

Individuals of Indian descent might not get the Korean skin as such but can achieve the coveted "Korean glass skin" look with the right skincare routine and practices tailored to their skin type and concerns, says Dr Deepak Jakhar. While the term "glass skin" originated from Korean beauty trends, the principles behind achieving luminous, smooth, and translucent skin are universal and can be adapted to various skin types and ethnicities, adds Dr Ishmeet Kaur.

Here are some key steps and considerations for Indians looking to achieve Korean glass skin:

1. Consistent Skincare Routine: Establishing a consistent skincare routine is crucial for achieving glass skin. This typically involves cleansing, toning, moisturizing, and protecting the skin from sun damage. Consistency is key, as regular skincare practices help improve skin texture and appearance over time.

2. Double Cleansing: Double cleansing is a fundamental step in Korean skincare routines and involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based cleanser to thoroughly remove makeup, sunscreen, dirt, and impurities. Double cleansing ensures a clean canvas for the subsequent skincare products and helps prevent clogged pores and breakouts.

3. Hydration: Hydration is essential for achieving glass skin, as it helps plump the skin, improve elasticity, and impart a dewy glow. Incorporate hydrating products such as essence, serum, and lightweight moisturizer into your skincare routine to maintain optimal hydration levels. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides that attract and retain moisture in the skin.

4. Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, promote cell turnover, and improve skin texture, resulting in smoother and more radiant skin. Choose gentle exfoliants such as chemical exfoliants (e.g., AHAs and BHAs) or mild physical exfoliants to avoid irritation and sensitivity, especially for those with sensitive skin.

5. Brightening Ingredients: Incorporate brightening ingredients into your skincare routine to address hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Ingredients such as niacinamide, vitamin C, arbutin, and licorice extract can help fade dark spots and enhance overall skin brightness.

6. Sun Protection: Protecting your skin from UV radiation is essential for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days, to prevent sun damage, premature aging, and pigmentation issues.

7. Sheet Masks: Sheet masks are a popular skincare treatment in Korean beauty routines and can provide an extra boost of hydration, nourishment, and brightening to the skin. Incorporate sheet masks into your weekly skincare routine to pamper your skin and address specific concerns such as dryness, dullness, or uneven texture.

8. Healthy Lifestyle Habits: In addition to a consistent skincare routine, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can contribute to achieving glass skin. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants, get enough sleep, manage stress levels, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

It's important to note that skincare is highly individual, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Therefore, it may require some experimentation to find the right combination of products and techniques that suit your skin type and concerns. Consulting with a dermatologist can also provide personalized recommendations and guidance tailored to your specific needs.

Overall, with dedication, patience, and the right approach, individuals of Indian descent can certainly achieve the coveted Korean glass skin look and enjoy smooth, radiant, and healthy-looking skin.