For years now, glass skin has dominated our feeds, beauty kits and skincare wishlists. The obsession with that ultra-dewy, almost reflective glow wasn’t just a passing trend, it became the beauty goal for an entire generation.
But as we all know, beauty trends don’t sit still for long. If you’ve been keeping up with the latest makeup looks, you’ve probably noticed a new finish has entered the mix and is quietly stealing the spotlight, cloud skin. And if that name has left you with a few questions, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Glass skin is all about that high-shine, lit-from-within glow. Cloud skin, on the other hand, leans into a soft-focus, velvety complexion that looks fresh, polished and effortlessly put together. So, is the beauty world finally moving on from glass skin, or is there room for both? Let’s find out.
What Is Glass Skin?
Think luminous, hydrated and almost reflective. Born out of the K-beauty movement, glass skin focuses on creating a complexion that looks smooth, plump and healthy enough to glow without looking greasy. While makeup certainly plays a role, skincare remains the real hero behind the trend.
To recreate the look, start with a hydrating skincare routine followed by a glow-boosting primer. Reach for a lightweight skin tint or a luminous foundation, then layer on a cream blush and a liquid highlighter to achieve that signature lit-from-within finish.
If you’re looking to invest, products like the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter, Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush and Saie Glowy Super Gel would be our favourite picks.
For budget-friendly alternatives, try the e.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter, Maybelline Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation, Kay Beauty Creme Blush, Swiss Beauty Liquid Highlighter or MARS Glow O’Clock Primer & Strobe Cream.
Meet Cloud Skin
If glass skin is all about shine, cloud skin takes a softer route. It offers the same healthy-looking complexion, but with a blurred, airbrushed finish instead of a glossy one. It sits comfortably between matte and dewy, giving your skin a smooth, velvety appearance without looking flat.
To recreate the trend, prep your skin with a lightweight moisturiser and a pore-blurring primer. Opt for a satin-finish foundation or skin tint, lightly set the T-zone with a finely milled translucent powder and lock everything in with a setting spray. The goal isn’t to erase your glow, it’s to soften it.
For a luxe take on the trend, you can go for the NARS Light Reflecting Foundation, Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder, Make Up For Ever HD Skin Foundation and the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray.
On a budget, look to the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 24H Fresh Wear Waterproof Powder Foundation, Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation, Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder, Lakmé 9to5 Primer + Matte Powder Foundation and the NYX Professional Makeup Up To 16HR Makeup Setting Spray Matte Finish for a similar soft-focus finish.
Which Trend Is Winning Right Now?
While glass skin continues to reign supreme in the skincare space, cloud skin is quickly becoming the go-to makeup finish for those who prefer a polished yet natural look.
One of the biggest reasons? Versatility. Cloud skin holds up better in humid weather, photographs beautifully and doesn’t demand constant touch-ups throughout the day. It also works across different skin types and occasions, making it an easy favourite among makeup artists.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you love a radiant, glow-from-within finish and don’t mind embracing a little extra shine, glass skin is still very much worth trying. It’s especially flattering for dry and normal skin types and works beautifully for evening events or occasions where you want your complexion to look luminous.
Cloud skin, on the other hand, is perfect if you gravitate towards soft, natural-looking makeup. Whether you’re heading to work, brunch or a festive celebration, the velvety finish feels fresh, lightweight and effortlessly chic.
While glass skin continues to hold its own as the ultimate glowing complexion, cloud skin is proving that soft beauty deserves just as much attention. In the end, the best finish is the one that works for your skin, your routine and the look you want to create.