You might want 'mirror skin', but there's a cost.

On a recent trip to Seoul, I noticed almost everyone — men and women of all ages — flaunting the most flawless, ultra-shiny skin. And I'm not just talking about the usual glass skin glow my FYP is flooded with.

Their complexions were so shiny, I swear I could almost see my own reflection in their foreheads. It sounds excessive, but please believe me.

It was only until a few days into the trip when I was scrolling that a video popped up of a beauty creator showing off that same next-level glossy skin, with the words 'mirror skin' plastered across the screen.

Yep. It turns out the once-coveted glass skin trend is quietly stepping aside to make room for a newer, shinier contender: mirror skin.

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So, what exactly is mirror skin, and how does it differ from glass skin? We spoke to one of Australia's most renowned facialists and skincare experts, April Brodie, who broke down everything you need to know about the trend (benefits and potential drawbacks included).

What is 'mirror skin'?

"Imagine your skin glowing so much it almost looks like it's crafted out of light itself — that's the mirror skin trend," Brodie said. "It's about skin so smooth and radiant that it shines just like a mirror."

"Think of it as the ultra-glow, focusing on keeping your skin super-hydrated and crystal clear, much like those celeb faces that seem to sparkle without a single filter."

What's the difference between 'mirror skin', 'glazed doughnut skin' and 'glass skin'?

All these skin trends can get incredibly confusing, and at some point, they all just sound and look the same. So, are they actually identical or is there a way to tell the difference?

Well, both trends actually focus on achieving a flawless, dewy, smooth and clear complexion; however, mirror skin amplifies this by tenfold and takes the luminosity to the next level to create a reflective, mirror-like glow.

"While glazed doughnut skin emphasises a dewy finish and glass skin stresses transparency and plumpness, mirror skin pushes clarity to an almost reflective brilliance," Brodie explained.

"It's about achieving a surface so smooth and radiant that it reflects light, creating a mirror-like glow. This trend focuses heavily on hydration and clarity, aiming for impeccable radiance that mirrors the flawless complexions often seen on celebrities.

"It represents an elevated standard of skincare where light-diffusing qualities resonate, inspired by digital and visual influences like K-pop culture. It's almost an art form."

How to achieve 'mirror skin', according to a Korean beauty skincare expert.

It goes without saying that you need to have a "meticulous skincare regimen". A few trips to a dermatologist or professional skin expert will definitely help you achieve mirror skin, too. But if you want to take things into your own hands and try and achieve flawless, reflective skin, Brodie has some tips to keep in mind:

• Go big on hydration: Hyaluronic acid and glycerin are your skin's new besties to keep it plump and locked in with moisture.

• Gentle exfoliation is key: Smooth skin is reflective skin. Keep it fresh by gently buffing away dullness.

• Brightening is your friend: Serums with vitamin C and niacinamide are excellent for achieving a clear, bright complexion.

• Skincare over makeup: Pure, natural glow wins over makeup tricks and highlighters. Skincare first, always.

• Don't skip the SPF: The glow must be protected. Shield your skin from sun damage to keep it clear and luminous. Consistent use of SPF protects against damage and maintains skin clarity.

The danger of 'mirror skin'.

Providing your skin with ample hydration is important, but please, PLEASE, don't overdo it. Trust me — I learnt the hard way. In my attempt to achieve glass skin, I ended up damaging my skin barrier by layering too many products, and it took months to heal.

"While pursuing mirror skin, avoid over-exfoliation and excessive layering of products, which can compromise your skin barrier and lead to irritation," Brodie emphasised. "Always listen to your skin's needs and consult with dermatologists if unsure. Remember, the ultimate goal should be healthy, comfortable skin, not just a trend."

What are the downsides of skincare trends?

Take a quick scroll through #skinTok and you'll be flooded with people flaunting picture-perfect skin. For anyone dealing with skin concerns, this kind of content can feel incredibly disheartening. As someone who has personally felt the mental toll of constant comparison and the pressure to achieve something so unattainable, I urge you to consume this kind of content with a grain of salt.

As facialist April Brodie explained, "Trends like mirror skin highlight unattainable standards of beauty for many, potentially affecting self-esteem. It's crucial to understand that Photoshop, lighting, and genetics play significant roles in these idealised appearances.

"Real skin has texture, and that's perfectly normal! Addressing trends responsibly includes emphasising healthy skin practices over chasing perfection."

8 of the best products to have hydrated skin.

Regardless of whether you're trying to achieve mirror skin, glass skin or just a healthier complexion, here are some of my favourite hydrating and barrier-repairing products I've purchased, tested and loved.

And remember: light, balanced layering is key!

Anua PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum 30ml, $26.95 (usually $42).

Image: Lila Beauty.

Arencia Fresh Green Rice Mochi Cleanser 120g, $19.95 (usually $32).

Image: Lila Beauty.

Numbuzin No.9 NAD Bio Lifting-sil Essence 50ml, $34.95 (usually $55).

Image: Lila Beauty.

Medicube Collagen Night Wrapping Mask 75ml, $27.95 (usually $60).

Image: Lila Beauty.

VT Cosmetics PDRN Essence 100 30ml, $51.95 (usually $72).

Image: Lila Beauty.

Anua Rice 70 Glow Milky Toner 250ml, $24.95 (usually $36).

Image: Lila Beauty.

Arencia Fresh Red Smoothie Serum 8 30ml, $25.95 (usually $34).

Image: Lila Beauty.

What do you think of the 'mirror skin' trend? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.

Feature image: Instagram @jasminlily/@songofskin.