Who doesn’t want that effortless, lit-from-within glow without layering on foundation or highlighter? Achieving that healthy, radiant look isn’t about covering your skin; it’s about giving it the right nourishment. If oily skin leaves you feeling too shiny in the summer, our guide to the Best Summer Skincare Routine for Oily Skin can help you find balance.
The secret is a consistent skincare routine with products that deeply hydrate, repair, and brighten your complexion from the inside out.
We’ve put together a list of five tried-and-tested products that can help you achieve that natural, dewy finish, making you feel confident and glowy — no makeup required.
1. COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence
This cult-favorite essence is a must-have for anyone seeking a deep, lasting glow. Its star ingredient is a whopping 96% snail mucin extract, a powerhouse for hydration and skin repair.
Why it works: Snail mucin is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into your skin, leaving it plump and dewy. It also contains ingredients like glycoproteins and hyaluronic acid that work to repair damaged skin barriers, soothe irritation, and smooth out your skin’s texture. Using this essence regularly will help reduce the appearance of fine lines and give your skin a bouncy, revitalized look.
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2. Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum (Propolis + Niacinamide)
Known for its ability to create that coveted “glass skin” effect, this lightweight serum is a fantastic choice for instant radiance. It combines two key ingredients: propolis extract and niacinamide.
Why it works: Propolis is a natural anti-inflammatory, which means it helps to calm redness and soothe stressed skin. This creates a more even, clear canvas. Niacinamide, a form of Vitamin B3, is a multi-tasking ingredient that brightens your overall skin tone, minimizes the look of pores, and strengthens your skin’s natural barrier. Together, they work to give your skin a natural, healthy luminosity that looks like it’s glowing from within.
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3. I’m From Rice Toner
If you’re looking to brighten and nourish your skin, this toner is a great choice. It’s formulated with a high concentration of 77.78% rice extract that works to gently clarify and enrich your complexion.
Why it works: Rice extract is rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that provide deep nourishment and moisture. It has a natural brightening effect that helps even out your skin tone and fade the appearance of dark spots over time. The formula is rich yet lightweight, making your skin feel incredibly soft, plump, and hydrated — the perfect base for a natural glow.
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4. Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Hyaluronic Toner
This antioxidant-rich toner is perfect for protecting your skin while giving it a fresh, bouncy look. It combines fermented black rice extract and hyaluronic acid.
Why it works: Fermented black rice is packed with antioxidants that protect your skin from free radicals and environmental stressors that can lead to dullness. At the same time, hyaluronic acid provides a major boost of hydration, pulling moisture into your skin to plump it up and smooth out any dehydration lines. The result is a vibrant, refreshed complexion that stays hydrated and protected throughout the day.
5. SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Ampoule
If your skin is on the sensitive side or prone to redness, this ampoule is your secret weapon for a healthy glow. Made with just one ingredient — 100% Centella Asiatica extract from Madagascar, it’s pure and powerfully soothing.
Why it works: Centella Asiatica, often known as Cica, is celebrated for its ability to calm inflammation, soothe irritation, and repair your skin’s natural barrier. By reducing redness and strengthening your skin, it creates a healthier, more balanced complexion. This helps your skin appear clearer and gives it a soft, natural glow that isn’t masked by irritation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a toner, essence, and ampoule?
Toner, essence, and ampoule are all similar, but they have different concentrations. A toner is the first step after cleansing to prep your skin. An essence has a higher concentration of active ingredients than a toner and is designed to treat specific concerns. An ampoule is even more concentrated than an essence, making it a powerful booster for targeted skin issues.
2. How long will it take to see results?
You can often see an immediate effect with products that provide hydration and a dewy finish. For long-term benefits like improved texture and brightness, you should use these products consistently for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
3. Can I use all of these products together in one routine?
Yes, you can! These products are generally gentle and designed to be layered. A good order would be: Toner → Essence → Ampoule → Serum. Start with one or two products at a time to see how your skin reacts, then gradually add more to your routine.
4. Is it okay to skip makeup forever with this routine?
Absolutely. The goal of this kind of routine is to make your skin so healthy and radiant that you feel confident and happy without any makeup at all. These products focus on improving your skin’s health from within, so you don’t feel the need to cover it up.
