Translucent, poreless, illuminated skin (like glass) might be a trend that started in Korea, but millions of beauty seekers all over the world can certainly relate. Heavily powdered matte skin (which many claim makes you look old and encourages wrinkles) has taken a backseat to a healthy, youthful, effortless glow. Even without flawless skin, there are thousands of makeup products on the market to help you achieve the perfect ‘glass skin’ effect.

The key to getting makeup to lay perfectly is all in the prep. Skin should be clean and hydrated (not oily). Putting makeup on dirty or compromised skin only creates more problems down the line. A full face wash is not necessary (or recommended, as excessive washing can dry out and damage the skin), but you can easily get a quick cleanse with a hydrating cleansing water. Blithe’s Himalayan Salt Cleansing Water not only takes away every trace of dirt, it also leaves skin hydrated and ‘bouncy’ to the touch. With 44% Himalayan Pink Salt (and the first ingredient), it also works to keep the skin detoxified and protected against harsh environmental factors.

Follow with a hydrating moisturizer that leaves your skin supple (not oily), like Boscia’s Cactus Water Moisturizer. Even on oily skin, this formula makes skin dewy and bright. Seal the deal with Naruko Raw Jobs Tears Invisible Pore Concealer. It pulls double duty by sealing in hydration on your actual skin, and creating the perfect base for foundation to stick (without directly touching your skin and potentially sinking into pores, fine lines and wrinkles).

Foundation is certainly a matter of personal preference, but the best foundations for a glass skin effect are dewy or at least skin-like. Matte foundations could remove dimension from the face and could make it appear flat or washed out. We are huge fans of the new Becca Skin Love Foundation. The formula is strong enough to set at a medium or even full coverage, but the finish is natural. With very thin layers, it may not even be necessary to powder and set. A setting spray (Cover FX makes a great illuminating version) might be enough to keep everything in place. This formula works just fine as a concealer as well, for any hot spots on the face. With a tiny brush and a ‘cross hatch’ technique, you can apply just a little extra coverage to the places you need. (And if you’re not sure how that works, Makeup Artist Lisa Eldridge has you covered).

If you’re into contour, cream products are your best bet. Even better is a darker shade of the same kind of foundation. That way the lines are seamless and the effect is effortless. If you’d like to add highlight, pick a product that adds ‘sheen’ rather than shimmer. Cream products work better than powder for a true translucent effect. We love Sulwhasoo Cushion Highlight for its universally flattering sheen and ease of application. A little goes a long way, so add a small amount to start, and layer as needed for a full highlight effect.

Anything after that is beauty’s choice. Any color should stay in the creamy range, from blushes to eye color and lips. Eye makeup can be dramatic, but it might take away from the overall effect of effortless presentation. If you must powder, just a bit of the lightest translucent formula under the eyes and through the t-zone will still keep the overall look. Finish with good spritz of setting spray, and you’re good to go!