What TikTok’s ‘Glass Skin’ Videos Leave Out About Healthy Skin
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The pursuit of flawless, luminous skin has become a fixture of online beauty culture. But dermatologists are warning that the elaborate routines promoted under the “glass skin” trend can leave users with irritated, damaged skin rather than a healthier complexion.
Research presented at the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Congress in September 2026 examined 38 popular TikTok videos featuring Korean skincare and glass-skin routines. Nearly 95% contained at least one potentially misleading claim, while 84% failed to address differences between skin types.
Researchers also found that 45% promoted excessive combinations of active ingredients without adequate safety advice. The findings describe a limited sample of videos, not the safety of Korean skincare products as a whole.
Glass skin refers to a smooth, clear, intensely hydrated complexion. Common routines combine cleansers, serums, moisturizers and exfoliating products to create a reflective finish.
The concern is how far people go to achieve that appearance.
The American Academy of Dermatology says moisturizing and daily sun protection are beneficial, but applying too many products can cause irritation, clogged pores and breakouts.
Frequent exfoliation, particularly alongside retinol or other potentially irritating ingredients, can also compromise the skin barrier. This protective outer layer helps retain moisture and shield the skin from environmental irritants.
According to Cleveland Clinic, warning signs include dryness, flaking, redness, itching and stinging when skincare products are applied.
Dermatologists recommend keeping routines manageable: use a gentle cleanser, an appropriate moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Exfoliation should be tailored to individual skin tolerance, while persistent irritation warrants professional advice.
Healthy skin does not need to look poreless or perfectly reflective. The problem is not the desire for a dewy complexion, but the potentially damaging practices used to achieve it.
