‘Skin Glazing’ is Trending – A Skincare Expert Explains the K-Beauty-Inspired Trend For Oily Skin

Skincare expert Shannon McCreery from Ultraceuticals shares why “skin glazing” gets her expert approval and how to create it at home.

Move over glass skin, “skin glazing” is the latest K-beauty-inspired trend gaining traction, and according to Shannon McCreery, National Head of Education at Australian cosmeceutical skincare brand Ultraceuticals, it’s not just about shine, but smart, tailored hydration.
“With summer heat, increased SPF usage, and air-conditioned spaces often throwing skin off balance, many of us are experiencing both oiliness and dehydration at the same time – so this trend has arrived just the right time,” says Shannon.
Here, Shannon breaks down what skin glazing is, who it’s for, and how to get the look, without overloading your skin.
What Is Skin Glazing?
Skin glazing refers to layering lightweight, hydrating products in a specific order to achieve skin that looks fresh, dewy, and healthy, without feeling greasy. It’s ideal for oily and combination skin types, which can still suffer from dehydration. The goal is to replenish water content in the skin while keeping oil levels in check.
Is Your Skin Dehydrated, Not Dry?
One of the biggest misconceptions I see is people confusing dry and dehydrated skin. Dry skin lacks oil, while dehydrated skin lacks water, and any skin type can become dehydrated, including oily and acne-prone.
Environmental stressors like heat, sun exposure, and travel can compromise the skin barrier, causing water loss and irritation. Glazing helps rebuild and maintain hydration in a breathable, layered way.
Why It Works (Especially in Summer)
During warmer months, many clients don’t want heavy textures. Glazing is a lightweight way to keep skin hydrated, supple and resilient without congestion or that ‘sticky’ feel. The technique is also customisable, depending on how your skin feels on any given day.
Skin Glazing Routine
You don’t need a ten-step routine; here’s a simple formula for skin glazing – think of it as building a ‘moisture sandwich.’
  • Cleanse: Start with a nourishing, non-stripping cleanser like the Ultra Hydrating Milk Cleanser (RRP €45.00), which gently removes residue while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance.
  • Mist: Prep with a refreshing mist like Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Skin Mist (RRP €46.50), that soothes and hydrates, creating the perfect base for layering.
  • Serum: Use an oil-free hydrating serum. The Ultraceuticals Ultra B² Hydrating Serum (RRP €79.50) is powered by Provitamin B5, Niacinamide, and Sodium Hyaluronate to support moisture retention and skin barrier function.
  • SPF (Daytime): Finish with a sunscreen that provides both hydration and protection. The Ultraceuticals Ultra UV Protective Daily Moisturiser SPF 50 Hydrating (RRP €57.00) is a lightweight, non-whitening sunscreen that delivers high UVA/UVB protection and a boost of hydration.
  • Lightweight Moisturiser (Evening): At night, seal in hydration with a non-greasy moisturiser. The Ultraceuticals Ultra Hydrating Lotion (RRP €65.00), a fast-absorbing moisturiser that restores suppleness and leaves the skin feeling smooth and balanced.
Ultraceuticals products are available via ultraceuticals.ie and in Ultraceuticals partner salons and clinics nationwide.