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Step-by-Step Skincare Routine: Cleansers, Serums & Tools
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items A curated blend of tried-and-true cleansers, treatment serums, and game-changing tools — perfect for building a routine that actually delivers results, whatever your skin goals.
Sections
7
Step 1: Skincare Cleanse
Step 2: Skincare Tone & Prep
Step 3: Skincare Treatment from The Ordinary
Step 4: Skincare Moisturize & Seal
Step 5: Skincare Protection
Step 6: Skincare Tools & Devices
Step 1: Skincare Cleanse
Start with a clean base. These remove buildup without stripping your skin.
Great cleansers for any skin type. never had a negative reaction!
Facial Cleansers - Skincare
Love the ph balance it provides
pH Balancing Daily Cleanser with Aloe Vera - 8 oz. - Thayers
Gentle and helps with dark spots over time.
Vitamin C Brightening Facial Cleanser
Step 2: Skincare Tone & Prep
Budget-friendly resurfacing toner for clearer, more even-looking skin.
Glycolic Acid 7% Exfoliating Toner
Milky, deeply hydrating toner that feels like lightweight moisturizer.
Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer: All-in-One Skincare Hero
Step 3: Skincare Treatment from The Ordinary
These are the treatments I rotate depending on my skin’s needs. When layering The Ordinary products, I apply from thinnest to thickest consistency — starting with water-based serums, then targeted treatments, and finishing with oil-based formulas. I ...
Simple, effective serum that layers under everything.
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)
A multi-peptide formula that targets visible signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness, while still feeling lightweight and easy to layer.
Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
Targeted brightening serum for dark spots.
Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA Brightening Serum for Uneven Skin
The only product Ive found that works on darkness around the eyes and reducess puffiness
Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG Eye Serum
Pore-refining serum that balances oil and smooths texture.
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% | 23% Off in Slowvember
A mid-strength retinol that helps improve skin texture and fine lines over time. Best used at night and rotated with hydrating products.
Anti-Aging Moderate Strength Retinol 0.5% in Squalane Serum
A direct-acting BHA treatment that helps reduce breakouts and congestion. Ideal for acne-prone or oily skin types.
Salicylic Acid 2% Solution
Step 4: Skincare Moisturize & Seal
After using active treatments like glycolic acid or niacinamide, this step is where I lock everything in and support my skin barrier. I choose moisturizers that hydrate deeply without clogging pores, so my skin stays balanced and calm.”
Ideal for normal to combination skin, this formula locks in moisture while keeping skin fresh and balanced.
Moisture Surge™ 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator
A dermatologist-developed moisturizer that strengthens the skin barrier and improves softness over time
Dramatically Different™ Moisturizing Lotion+
A no-frills moisturizer packed with skin-identical ingredients that help maintain hydration and barrier function. Great over treatment serums.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA
A more nourishing option from The Ordinary that supports skin resilience, especially helpful after exfoliation nights.
Natural Moisturizing + PhytoCeramides: Strengthen Skin Barrier
Step 5: Skincare Protection
Since I use active treatments like glycolic acid and niacinamide, SPF is essential in my morning routine. This step protects my skin and prevents dark spots or irritation from getting worse.
A lightweight daily moisturizer with SPF 30 that hydrates while protecting against sun damage. Great for everyday wear and easy layering.
3.0 oz AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 - CeraVe
Higher SPF option if you want stronger daily protection, especially important when using glycolic acid.
CeraVe - Sunscreen - 6 Products
A mineral-based sunscreen designed to pair well with treatment-heavy routines. Offers protection without unnecessary extras.
UV Filters SPF 45 Serum
Step 6: Skincare Tools & Devices
Skincare tools that improve cleansing and product absorption.
A silicone cleansing device that helps remove buildup more thoroughly than hands alone. Great if you wear makeup or SPF daily.
PMD Clean | Smart Facial Cleansing Device
This nano-ionic facial steamer helps open pores and soften buildup before cleansing or masks. I like using it before deeper exfoliation or when my skin feels congested.
NanoSteamer 3-in-1 Nano Ionic Facial Steamer
An at-home skin booster that pairs beautifully with treatment-heavy routines. Ideal if you’re already investing in quality serums and want to amplify their effectiveness.
Medicube Age-R Booster Pro | 6-in-1 Glow Device
This portable high-frequency device is designed to help reduce breakouts, calm inflammation, and improve overall skin clarity. I use it as a targeted tool when my skin feels congested or irritated.
NuDerma Portable Skin Therapy Wand
This rose quartz roller and gua sha set helps reduce puffiness and support circulation when used with your favorite serum. I like using it on hydration-focused nights to boost glow.
PLANTIFIQUE Rose Quartz Face Roller & Gua Sha
This sonic dermaplaning device gently exfoliates the surface of the skin while removing peach fuzz for a smoother, brighter appearance. I use it occasionally when I want better makeup application and enhanced glow.
DERMAFLASH LUXE+ Sonic Dermaplaning + Peach Fuzz Removal ...
Makeup for Mature Skin
The
Great products on a budget
e.l.f. Cosmetics
Blurring finish that feels lightweight.
Forget The Filler Skin-Plumping Line-Smoothing Foundation
Soft definition without harsh lines.
NYX Professional Makeup Micro Brow Pencil Eyebrow Pencil
Blur out those fine lines and pores with this magic in a jar. I use it every time I plan on wearing makeup.
Conceal + Perfect Blur Out Smoothing Primer
Let’s face it. Mature eyes need eye brightening products.
Makeup Revolution Eye Bright Illuminating Under Eye Concealer
Your mature skin needs this blurring pressed powder, because why not double blur 🤭
Ellen Tracy Translucent Pressed Blurring Powder With Blending Puff ...