Mira Kapoor, founder of skincare brand Akind Beauty, has challenged the practicality of the famed Korean “glass skin” standard for Indians, asking whether the dewy, poreless aesthetic is compatible with the country’s varied weather and skin types.
Skincare trends vs everyday reality
In a recent Instagram video highlighted by indianexpress.com, Kapoor said the ultra-reflective, poreless finish popularised by Korean beauty routines is visually appealing but may not be a realistic or healthy goal for many people in India. She cautioned against piling on layers of products without regard to absorption limits and the needs of individual skin types.
"Is it just me, or is the Korean glass skin trend very unrealistic?"
Kapoor added in her post caption that while trends come and go, “healthy skin is always in”, and urged followers to focus on foundational care rather than chase perfection.
Dermatologists stress fundamentals
Dr Satish Bhatia, a board-certified dermatologist in Mumbai, told indianexpress.com that every few weeks a new glass-skin regimen circulates online, but copying celebrity routines without professional guidance can be misleading and sometimes harmful. He warned that such ideals may be unattainable for many because of differing skin types and tones, and could contribute to body dissatisfaction.
According to Dr Bhatia, the real priorities for skin health are simple and evidence-based. He highlighted hydration and barrier protection as the cornerstones of any effective routine, noting that products alone — however expensive — are not a substitute for consistent basic care.
- Gentle cleansing: Use a mild face wash suited to your skin type.
- Regular moisturisation: Keep the skin barrier intact with an appropriate moisturiser.
- Sunscreen: Daily sun protection to prevent photo-ageing and pigmentation.
- Healthy habits: Adequate sleep and hydration support skin recovery and glow.
- Professional care: Seek treatments only when indicated by a dermatologist.
These recommendations reflect what both Kapoor and Dr Bhatia emphasised: skincare should centre on consistency and suitability rather than copying a one-size-fits-all routine from another climate or culture.
What ‘glass skin’ promises and the Indian challenge
The glass-skin look is defined by a luminous, even-toned surface that appears almost translucent under light. While glossy and flawless on camera or in studio lighting, such finishes often rely on layering techniques, specific formulations and professional treatments that may be impractical under India’s high humidity, pollution levels and varied temperatures.
Experts cited by indianexpress.com pointed out that what appears flawless under filters, heavy makeup or studio illumination does not necessarily translate to everyday skin health. Kapoor’s message, reported in the piece, is that building a personalised routine based on core principles will deliver sustainable results.
| Goal | Suggested focus |
|---|---|
| Hydration | Humectants and moisturisers to protect barrier |
| Sun protection | Daily broad-spectrum SPF |
| Consistency | Simple, repeatable routine over experimental layering |
For many Indians, a pared-back approach also reduces the risk of irritation from overuse of active ingredients or incompatible product combinations. The reported advice encourages consumers to prioritise fundamentals and consult professionals for targeted concerns rather than attempt to replicate a trend that may have been crafted for different conditions.
Kapoor’s position aligns with a growing conversation in India’s beauty community: adopt routines that respect local climate, skin physiology and lifestyle. As she wrote in her post, the emphasis should be on healthy, resilient skin rather than an exact aesthetic ideal.
