Beauty columnist Sali Hughes has tested four moisturisers that promise to deliver the coveted glass skin look in a single application, bypassing the traditional multi-step Korean skincare routine. The products, ranging from £9 to £30, aim to provide a smooth, glazed sheen without the need for extensive layering.
Erborian Glow Moisturiser: A Balanced Glow
Erborian's Glow Moisturiser, priced from £9 and suitable for all skin types, is described by Hughes as a 'Goldilocks's porridge' face cream. It strikes a balance between too heavy and too light, offering a dewy finish without appearing oily. The hydration is lasting and never becomes wet. Hughes notes a slight pearlescence, which she finds flattering, but advises those who avoid shimmer to be aware of it.
Mac Faceglass: A Versatile Gel
Mac's Faceglass Hydrating Skin Gloss, at £30, initially struck Hughes as sticky and stiff, but within seconds it transformed into a smooth, spreadable, and silky gel. It provides genuine skin hydration, not just a cosmetic effect, thanks to a high concentration of glycerin and squalane. Despite a strong fruity scent, it avoids a jammy teenage lipgloss finish. Hughes found it versatile, working well under makeup and applicable to cheekbones, brow bones, and lips, with a thickness that prevents migration.
Rhode Highlight Milk: A Tinted Option
Rhode's 'luminizing' Highlight Milk, £28, is a liquid moisturiser Hughes often uses as a final layer before sunscreen. Unlike the original colourless Glazing Milk, this version is tinted in four shades to suit all skin tones. Both offer soothing, milky moisture with a glazed-doughnut finish. Hughes is so fond of shade 02 that she has stopped using foundation altogether.
L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Filler: A Subtle Sheen
Hughes reiterates her recommendation for L'Oreal Paris's Revitalift Filler Glass Skin Face Moisturiser, £17.99 but frequently discounted. This milky serum hydrates, plumps, and leaves a subtle dewiness, making skin look vital and healthy without appearing sweaty or sticky. Hughes finds that a matte-ish makeup over it looks more natural, and even dry skin stays lubricated. She considers it a 'terrific but oddly overlooked' buy.
