The pursuit of the ultra-dewy, poreless complexion dubbed "glass skin" — a Korean beauty trend amplified by Kylie Jenner and Hailey Bieber that surged in late 2025 into 2026, per Google Trends data cited by KCRA — is now landing patients in dermatology clinics. KCRA, carrying CNN's reporting, tells the story of Greta Costioli, once known as the "glass skin girl" on TikTok, who layered toners, serums and essences until she was applying seven layers of hydrating toner. She says the routine initially earned compliments, but she kept "compromising my skin barrier," producing small red bumps that grew more aggressive until she cut her steps back.

Allure reports a separate small observational study presented at EADV Congress 2026 followed 94 dermatology patients for 12 months who developed new or aggravated skin conditions after using products promoted on social media. According to Allure, irritant contact dermatitis appeared in 42% of patients, nearly 30% developed or had worsening acne, and 12% had rosacea flares; 7% experienced superficial chemical burns. Allure notes nearly 35% of reactions were tied to AHA or BHA chemical exfoliants, retinoid products were linked in 27% of cases, and 63% of patients used more than three active ingredients — though the study was small.

Both outlets say the answer is not abandoning skincare content but vetting it. "You can pursue the glow while taking care of the skin beneath it," Dr. Mona Gohara told KCRA, recommending a pause on scrubs, exfoliating acids and retinoids if the barrier is damaged, plus a gentle cleanser, barrier repair cream and sunscreen. KCRA says Dr. Jane Yoo favors a simple four-step routine: cleanser, one active, moisturizer and SPF. Allure's experts add practical guardrails — Dr. Cindy Wassef advises adding no more than one new product every one to two weeks, and Dr. Zeichner suggests running trending products past a dermatologist first.