Glass Skin vs. Cloud Skin: What’s the Difference and Which One’s for You?

‘Radiant skin’, ‘skin glow’, and ‘dewy skin’ are all synonyms of healthy-looking complexions. When your skin is naturally brightened, it’s an indication of optimized protection against outside stress, well-balanced hydration, and a good skin moisture barrier.

In 2025, two major skincare trends are redefining how we talk about glow: glass skin and cloud skin. One skin type delivers a high-shine, ultra-dewy finish. The other focuses on soft-focus radiance with a more matte vibe. Both are stunning in their own way—but they suit different skin types, makeup styles, and lifestyles.

So, which one do you choose? Here’s a breakdown of what each trend entails, how to get the look, and how to determine which one suits your skin the best.

Read More: Slugging vs. Skin Cycling: Which Skincare Trend Is Right for You?

What Is Glass Skin?

Glass skin comes from Korean skincare culture and refers to a complexion that appears ultra-smooth, clear, and deeply hydrated, like a pane of glass.

It’s the result of an intense skincare routine that focuses on hydration, layering, and glow-enhancing ingredients. The aim is to achieve a “lit from within” effect that is more about skincare than makeup.

Key Features of Glass Skin:

• Dewy, high-luster finish
• Hydrating routine with multi-layers of toner, essence, and serum
• Low-key but bright makeup that gives a natural boost
• Smooth surface with hardly perceptible pores

As Glamour magazine states, the appearance is less about makeup and more about maintaining healthy, well-hydrated skin with continuous care.

Ideal For:

• Those with dry, dehydrated, or lackluster skin.
• Those who love a multi-step skincare routine.
• Those wanting a youthful, radiant appearance.

What Is Cloud Skin?

Cloud skin is a newer trend that blends soft matte textures with controlled glow. The goal isn’t to shine like glass, but to look velvety, diffused, and softly radiant—like light passing through a cloud.

This trend, unlike glass skin, applies a little more makeup. It relies on subtle blurring, matte-satin foundations, and subtle highlighting instead of full-on dew.

Main Features of Cloud Skin:

• Satin or demi-matte finish with a soft sheen
• Blurring primers and transparent powders to take away shine
• Lightweight highlighting on the uppermost areas of the face
• Less harsh on bumpy or oily skin

As Vogue explains, while glass skin is all about moisture, cloud skin is about balance—maintaining shine and offering a subtle glow.

Best For:

• Those with combination, oily, or acne-prone skin.
• Those looking for a smoother, less shiny appearance.
• Individuals who prefer simpler, faster routines.

Read More: DIY vs. Store-Bought Skincare: A Practical Guide to Choosing Wisely

Key Differences Between Glass Skin and Cloud Skin

Glass skin and cloud skin, both trends, became popular due to TikTok. While both aim for a radiant look, they differ in finish, technique, and ideal skin types. Read through the table to understand the differences between the two skin types.

Read More: The Benefits of Dry Brushing: Does It Actually Improve Circulation & Lymphatic Health?

How to Achieve Each Look

If you wish to achieve either of the looks, we have a quick guide on how to get started:

Glass Skin Routine

Here’s how to achieve a glass skin look:

• Begin with a double cleanse to clear the pores and prepare the skin.
• Add hydrating layers—a toner, essence, and hyaluronic acid serum to intensely moisturize.
• Seal with a rich moisturizer and light facial oil.

Check out this amazing cleanser available on Amazon.

Top with a dewy SPF, and for makeup, use skin tints, liquid highlighters, and creamy blushes to for the glow.

Cloud Skin Routine

Few easy steps to achieve cloud skin glow:

• Gently exfoliate a couple of times weekly to refine texture and ensure that products stay in place.
• Use a light moisturizer to moisturize without the extra shine.
• Utilize a blurring primer to minimize pores and prepare skin for makeup.
• Apply a light, skin-colored foundation in a satin or demi-matte finish.
• Apply translucent powder on oil-prone spots.

Use a cream highlighter only where necessary, such as on cheekbones, for a subtle dimension.

Which One’s Right for You?

Your perfect finish depends on what your skin needs, lifestyle, and how much glow you’re comfortable with. Here’s a quick guide:

Go for Glass Skin if:

• Your skin is tight, dry, or dull.
• You love a full skincare routine.
• You like a low foundation and adore that just-moisturized glow.
• You don’t mind blotting or reapplying shine throughout the day.

Go for Cloud Skin if:

• Your skin is oily, acne-prone, or texture-heavy.
• You want your makeup to stay in place all day without getting greasy.
• You like a clean, airy base that still looks radiant.
• You like a low-maintenance, more natural finish.

There’s no such thing as wrong here—go for the one that works best for your skin.

Read More: The LED Face Mask Trend: Do Light Therapy Masks Actually Work for Your Skin?

Can You Mix Both?

Absolutely yes! If you’re unable to choose between glass skin and cloud skin, the best news is: you don’t have to pick one.

Combining elements from both trends is one of the simplest ways to build a customized routine that caters to real-life skin. For instance:

• Begin with a glass skin-type foundation—hydrate your skin well with toner, serum, and a gentle moisturizer.
• Then try cloud skin methods—put on a blurring primer and a satin-finish foundation to subdue shine.
• Spot-highlight just where you desire added glow, such as the peaks of the cheeks or the bridge of the nose.

This combined technique provides you with that “glow-from-within” appearance without letting excess shine get away. It’s particularly good on combination skin or during changing weather.

See this pro tip for blending skin finishes by Charlotte Tilbury artists.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re team dewy or team diffused, both trends honor purposeful skincare and thoughtful makeup. Glass skin is all about ultimate hydration and radiance. Cloud skin relies on equilibrium, blur, and subtle shine. None of these trends are superior—merely different.

Your skin, your rules.

The best part? You can experiment! Opt for a glass skin finish for a weekend brunch or an evening out. Choose the cloud skin look on a long workday or during summer. Or mix both for a soft, adjustable glow.

In 2025, skincare is personal. Your glow should be too.