What is glass hair? And how to get it at home?

Hey there! Welcome to the shiny side of beauty, where we’re all about chasing that super sleek, ultra-glossy hair vibe called “glass hair.” Picture your hair so shiny and smooth it could pass for glass.

Ready to make your hair the star of the show? Let’s dive into the Korean secrets that’ll transform your locks into sheer, glass-like perfection. Come on, let’s get your hair to steal the spotlight!

What is glass hair?

What is glass hair, you ask? And what makes it more than just a trend?

Glass hair refers to strands that is so smooth, shiny, and sleek that it reflects light just like glass. The concept come comes straight from the heart of Korean beauty innovation and goes way beyond simply having straight, sleek hair. We’re talking about achieving a level of shine and smoothness that feels almost surreal, like the stuff of fairytales!

And here’s what really sets this one apart: unlike the temporary gloss of styling products, glass hair reflects your hair’s intrinsic health. The journey, therefore, starts far beneath the surface. It begins with a commitment to scalp health, hydration, and the meticulous selection of products and techniques that fortify the hair from root to tip.

So, when you touch glass hair, each strand feels perfectly smooth, with cuticles so well-aligned that the texture feels soft and luxurious. This look is all the rage not just because it’s stunning but because it symbolizes the ultimate blend of health and beauty in hair care. Who wouldn’t want that?

How to achieve glass hair — at home!

As we explore the magic that brings glass hair to life, remember it’s all about raising the bar for your hair and scalp health, so get ready to step it up with the right products and techniques!

PS: A Korean hair spa usually involves 15 separate steps. But since that’s way too much for us mere mortals at home, I’ve worked with top hairdressers and trichologists to bring it down to a more manageable 7-step system while retaining every bit of the magic!

Step 1: Double cleansing but for your hair! 

Time to borrow a brilliant trick from the Korean skincare playbook — double cleansing but for hair! Korean beauty experts are all about gentle yet super-effective cleaning methods that kick impurities to the curb without robbing our hair of its precious natural oils. 

Start things off with an oil-based cleanser to melt away scalp oil and dirt, then follow up with a water-based shampoo for a squeaky-clean feel. Choosing a sulfate-free shampoo is a smart move here as it cleans without drying out your hair, keeping the moisture exactly where we want it — which is essential for that mirror-like finish.

This two-step cleansing ritual is a game-changer, especially if you’re battling city pollution or love your styling products. And it sets the perfect stage for that dreamy, shiny hair effect.

As for how often should we wash our locks? That’s an important factor as well. Washing too much? Hello, dry and dull hair. Not washing enough? Welcome to product buildup that snuffs out your shine. The goal is to find that Goldilocks zone for your hair type and lifestyle, usually around washing 2-3 times a week to keep things clean yet lush.

The best oil-based hair cleansing products to achieve that glass hair effect:

Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Cleansing Oil-Crème Duo: Unleash the dual power of cleansing oil and crème with this innovative product from Bumble and Bumble. Designed to cleanse and hydrate gently, it’s perfect for dry, brittle hair needing a tender touch. Say goodbye to frizz and hello to soft, manageable locks and glassy perfection.

Kérastase Elixir Ultime Sublimating Oil-Infused Shampoo: Elevate your haircare routine with Kérastase’s luxurious oil-infused shampoo. Designed to cleanse while indulging your hair in a blend of precious oils, it leaves hair looking luminous and feeling feather-light.

Davines OI Shampoo: Infused with Roucou oil, this antioxidant-rich shampoo delivers extraordinary shine and softness to all hair types. It gently cleanses, conditions, and gives hair a luxurious feel and a sensorial scent.

The best water-based shampoos to achieve that mirror-like shine:

Ryo Damage Care Shampoo: Enriched with ginseng and pomegranate extracts, this shampoo targets damaged hair, restoring vitality and shine. It’s designed to strengthen hair fibers from the roots, promoting healthier, glossier locks.

Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo: Luxuriate in the rejuvenating powers of this ultra-gentle shampoo infused with healing oils and extracts. It revitalizes hair to its youthful state, leaving it incredibly soft and shiny.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) Shampoo: This revolutionary shampoo does it all: cleanses, conditions, and styles to give you a perfect hair day, every day. Its patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA) ensures smoother, stronger, and more polished hair.

Pureology Hydrate Shampoo: Specially formulated for color-treated hair, this sulfate-free shampoo deeply moisturizes without stripping color. Its unique AntiFade Complex protects color vibrancy, while jojoba, green tea, and sage condition the hair.

Sachajuan Scalp Shampoo: Address scalp issues and rejuvenate your hair with this specially formulated shampoo. Piroctone Olamine and Climbazole remove dry dandruff and soothe irritated scalp, while rosemary oil, menthol, salicylic acid, and ginger extract balance moisture and promote hair health.

Step 2: The magic of conditioning

Think of conditioning as not just untangling those locks but truly pampering them. It’s your moment to deeply hydrate and repair, targeting right where your hair needs it most — the cuticle. A stellar conditioner smoothes down the cuticle layer, seals in that all-important moisture, and banishes frizz to make your hair reflect light like a mirror. 

Finding the perfect conditioner is like choosing the right pair of shoes — it’s got to fit just right. 

If your hair is on the finer side, go for something light that hydrates without the heavy lifting. 

Got thicker, coarser hair? Indulge in richer, more nourishing formulas that quench your hair’s thirst. 

And if you’re dealing with damaged or color-treated tresses, look for conditioners with a boost of proteins and amino acids to repair and protect, bringing back that shine and vibrancy. 

Here are six top-rated recommendations that promise to be game-changers for the glass hair trend:

Ryo Damage Care Treatment: Harness the power of traditional Korean herbal medicine to strengthen and revitalize your hair. Ginseng, pine leaf, and camellia oil work in harmony to nourish the scalp and hair, resulting in a healthy, vibrant shine.

Aveda Botanical Repair Strengthening Conditioner: This formula strengthens and repairs hair from the inside out, using plant-derived technologies to dramatically reduce breakage and protect against future damage. Eco-conscious and effective, it’s a win-win for your hair and the planet.

Living Proof Restore Conditioner: Restore your hair to its virgin state with Living Proof. This conditioner, powered by a patented healthy hair molecule, combats dryness, damage, and split ends, ensuring your hair is visibly healthier and stronger over time. Perfect for hair that’s been through it all!

Moroccanoil Hydrating Conditioner with Argan Oil: Experience the magic of argan oil with Moroccanoil’s hydrating conditioner. This formula goes beyond mere conditioning by deeply nourishing and detangling hair, infusing it with antioxidant-rich argan oil for unparalleled shine and softness. Ideal for everyday indulgence.

Redken All Soft Argan-Oil Enriched Conditioner for Dry Hair: Soften and transform dry, brittle hair with Redken’s All-Soft conditioner. Enriched with argan oil, it provides intense moisturization, detangling, and softening for hair that feels silky and manageable.

Step 3: Regular deep conditioning

Slipping a deep conditioning treatment into your weekly routine can work wonders for your locks. Think of these intensive masks as personal superheroes that reach deep into your hair, from the cuticle right down to the cortex, injecting life back into each strand.

Whether it’s damage from heat styling, chemical treatments, or daily environmental stresses, this crucial step acts like a spa retreat for your hair, restoring lost moisture and repairing damage.

Why are Korean hair masks a game-changer, you ask? They’re packed with super hydrators and healers like honey, ginseng, and even snail mucin, delivering a moisture and repair powerhouse.

This isn’t just about temporary fixes — it’s about deep repair that sets the foundation for that elusive reflective surface and glass-like sheen. With regular use, you’ll start to see hair that’s easier to manage, less frizzy, and gleams with a glossy, glassy shine.

Whether you’re battling dryness, damage, or just seeking that extra gloss, there’s a perfect deep conditioning hair mask for your needs:

Mise-en-Scène Perfect Repair Mask Pack: Dive into deep repair with this highly concentrated treatment, rich in argan oil and royal jelly. It targets damaged areas of the hair, restoring vitality and imparting a glossy sheen that’s hard to miss.

L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Damage-Erasing Balm: Erase the years of damage in just one use with this powerful balm. This powerhouse offers a unique blend of proteins and conditioning agents to repair and rejuvenate hair, reducing breakage by up to 97%. 

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: This revolutionary treatment rebuilds broken hair bonds, restoring structural integrity from the inside out. Ideal for damaged hair, its unique formula ensures that each strand emerges stronger, more resilient, and dazzlingly shiny.

Kérastase Resistance Mask for Severely Damaged Hair: Dive deep into hair restoration with this luxuriously thick mask. It targets the core of damaged fibers to rebuild and strengthen, leaving hair soft, supple, and radiantly shiny. Perfect for those who subject their hair to frequent styling and chemical treatments.

Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask: Harness the power of nature with this award-winning, deeply nourishing mask. Its blend of B vitamins, rosehip, argan oils, and collagen supports hair’s natural repair processes, enhancing strength and shine for a stunningly smooth finish.

Aveda Damage Remedy Intensive Restructuring Treatment: Rejuvenate stressed strands with this rich formula that penetrates deeply to repair and strengthen. Quinoa protein works to fortify hair, while organic oils smooth out frizzy hair and add a luminous glow.

Step 4: Go the extra mile with leave-in conditioner

Leave-in conditioners and treatments work overtime to keep your hair not just smooth and manageable but also safe from the likes of pollution and UV rays. And let’s not forget, they add that extra splash of gloss for the quintessential glass hair shimmer.

What is the secret sauce to nailing this step? For best results, look for ingredients like argan, camellia, or jojoba oil. Not only do they leave your hair dazzlingly shiny, but they also guard against the daily grind, from heat styling to environmental damage. 

And for that glass-like smoothness? A silicone-based hair serum is your best bet, delivering that sleek, reflective finish without any of the weight.

This curated selection represents the pinnacle of hair care innovation:

Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Oil: This highly concentrated, weightless styling oil repairs damaged and compromised hair, providing heat protection up to 450°F. It enhances shine, softness, and color vibrancy, making it an essential step for locking in your hair’s sheen.

Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’Huile Original Hair Oil: A versatile oil that provides intense nourishment and radiant shine. Enriched with Marula, Camellia, and Argan oils, it’s the golden key to sealing in moisture and adding a luxurious, glass-like shine to your hair.

Aveda Nutriplenish Multi-Use Hair Oil: With its 99.9% naturally derived blend of pomegranate seed, coconut, and avocado oils, this multi-use oil deeply nourishes and revitalizes hair, locking in moisture and delivering a glossy, healthy-looking shine.

L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Treatment: This luxurious oil treatment transforms dry, lifeless hair into soft and lustrous locks. It absorbs instantly, leaving no residue, just a lightweight, luminous shine and a silky touch.

Living Proof No Frizz Vanishing Oil: This fast-absorbing oil vanishes into hair, blocking humidity and smoothing each strand for a frizz-free, glossy finish. Powered by a healthy hair molecule (OFPMA), it’s a must-have for achieving sleek, shining locks.

Step 5: The art of blow-drying

Drying your hair correctly can be the game-changer for unlocking that glossy, glass hair look. And perfecting your blow-drying technique is not just about getting your hair dry — it’s about setting the stage for hair that glows with health and radiance. It’s a simple move that makes a world of difference, so let’s make sure we’re doing it right for that stunning glass hair effect.

Choose the right blow dryer: Invest in a high-quality, ionic blow dryer. Ionic technology reduces frizz by emitting negative ions that break down water molecules, speeding up drying time and sealing the cuticle for a smooth, shiny finish. Two that I stake my scalp on completely: the DryBar Buttercup Blow Dryer and T3 AirLuxe!

Use a concentrator nozzle: This attachment directs the airflow precisely, allowing you to work through sections methodically, focusing on smoothing the hair cuticle for extra shine.

Pick the proper brush: A round brush with natural bristles works best for achieving glass hair. It helps to pull your hair taut while blow-drying, smoothing out any waves or curls for a sleek finish.

Section your hair: Start by dividing damp hair into manageable sections. Working with small sections allows for more control and ensures that each strand is evenly dried and styled.

Keep the dryer moving: Avoid focusing the dryer on any single area for too long to prevent heat damage. Keep the dryer moving in a controlled manner, directing the airflow from roots to ends, which aids in smoothing the cuticle.

The cool shot button: After drying a section, blast cold air using the cool shot button. This helps to set the style and further smooth the cuticle, enhancing the hair’s natural shine.

Step 6: Flat irons for extra glass hair cred!

For the ultimate glass hair finish, flat ironing after blow drying is your best friend. And here’s how to do it right to serve up hair goals! 

Selecting the right flat iron: Opt for a high-quality ceramic or tourmaline flat iron that distributes heat evenly and minimizes damage. These materials help to lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and enhance shine, making them ideal for crafting glass hair. In fact, we’ve got a whole post right here about how to choose the perfect flat iron for your hair!

Heat settings matter: Use the lowest effective temperature setting to achieve your desired look. Excessive heat can compromise your hair’s integrity, leading to dryness and breakage. Lower temperatures are sufficient for fine hair, while thicker, coarser hair may require a slightly higher setting.

Section and straighten: Begin with dry, tangle-free hair. Section your hair as you did for blow-drying, starting from the bottom and working your way up. This systematic approach ensures even straightening and minimizes heat exposure.

The glide technique: Clamp the iron close to the roots (without touching the scalp) and gently glide it down to the ends in a smooth, steady motion. A single pass per section is ideal to maintain hair health. If more passes are needed, ensure they are quick and controlled.

The best heat protectant serums to keep your hair healthy and glossy:

Lador Perfect Hair Fill-Up: An innovative Korean hair treatment combining heat protection and deep repair. It uses keratin, collagen, and silk amino acids to rebuild and reinforce hair structure, shielding against thermal damage while restoring hair’s natural vitality.

Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer: This pre-styler protects and conditions dry, coarse, or brittle hair and is a must-have for styling and finishing. It’s infused with six lightweight oils to soften, silken, tame, de-frizz, detangle, and protect against breakage, heat-styling, and UV damage.

Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant: Infused with argan oil, this hair spray not only protects against heat up to 450°F but also nourishes and hydrates. Its lightweight formula ensures your hair stays smooth without feeling weighed down. Perfect for those looking to combine protection with the revitalizing benefits of argan oil.

Living Proof Restore Instant Protection Spray: A feather-light formula that instantly shields against heat and UV damage. This multitasker not only protects but also smooths and corrects existing hair damage. It is ideal for those seeking a powerful defense without compromising hair’s natural movement.

Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime Complete Anti-Frizz Care Spray: Designed for all hair types, this spray offers instant heat protection up to 450°F, along with incredible anti-frizz benefits. Its unique pro-keratin formula smooths and strengthens the hair fiber, making styling a breeze and leaving your hair silky and luminous.

Chi Silk Infusion Silk Reconstructing Complex: A rich leave-in treatment enriched with pure natural silk, wheat, and soy proteins. This product shields hair from thermal styling and the environment while fortifying and revitalizing hair strands. Expect incredible softness, shine, and a silky-smooth finish.

Aveda Heat Relief Thermal Protector & Conditioning Mist: Infused with a blend of certified organic oils, this mist protects hair from heat up to 450°F. It conditions and detangles, leaving hair soft, shiny, and full of life. A perfect choice for eco-conscious beauty lovers looking for plant-powered protection.

Step 7: The art of polishing

Polishing is the final flourish, the act that seals in your efforts and showcases your hair in its most radiant form. It cues up the hair cuticles for maximum shine and a glass-like finish.

Shine-enhancing products: Apply a lightweight shine serum, hair primer, or spray after straightening. Look for products with natural oils or silicone-based formulas that smooth the hair’s surface and reflect light without weighing hair down.

Attention to detail: Focus on areas prone to frizz or flyaways, like the hairline and ends. A small amount of product, applied sparingly to the ends of your hair, can tame these areas and create the effect of liquid hair.

Cold air setting: A quick blast of cold air from your hair dryer can help set the style and boost shine. It’s a simple yet effective trick to lock in the polished look.

Transform your hair into a mesmerizing spectacle of shine with these products, each designed to perfect the art of polishing:

Mise-en-Scène Perfect Serum Rose Edition: Infused with a blend of seven natural oils and a delicate rose fragrance, this serum not only tames frizz and smooths hair but also adds a luxurious shine, leaving your locks irresistibly soft and glossy.

Kérastase Elixir Ultime L’huile Original Hair Oil: A versatile beautifying oil enriched with a blend of four precious oils to provide intense shine and nourishment. It’s the ultimate finishing touch for radiant, glossy hair that feels as luxurious as it looks.

Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine Spray: Infused with argan oil and vitamins, this finishing spray creates an invisible veil of luminous shine that enhances color and highlights. The perfect polish for any style, it also protects hair from environmental elements.

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day (PhD) 5-in-1 Styling Treatment: This styling treatment offers five benefits for a perfect hair day: smoothness, volume, conditioning, strength, and polish. It’s ideal for those seeking a flawless finish with added health benefits.

Aveda Brilliant Spray-On Shine: This lightweight, aromatic spray gives your hair instant brilliance and shine. It’s perfect for finishing any hairstyle with a touch of gloss without weighing hair down.

Tempted by the thought of glass hair? Will you be trying any of these steps above?