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The 5-Minute Skincare Routine: Simple, Affordable & Effective

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Skincare doesn't need to be a 12-step science experiment. This is my edited-down favorites list for hydrated, bouncy, glowy skin with a few targeted products to rotate in when my skin needs something extra depending on the day or season. The goal: fe...

You absolutely do NOT need every product on this list. Start with a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF. Add hydration if your skin needs it, then choose ONE targeted treatment based on your biggest concern. Everything else is optional, but fun to try!
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Cleanse Without Stripping

The easiest way to double cleanse without spending a fortune. Simple, effective products that get the job done without making skincare feel like a second job.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
Best bang for your buck! Effective, simple, and a great place to start if you're new to double cleansing. Honestly been a favorite new cleanser I've used for the last 9-10 months.
Prequel Cleansing Duo
 
Noel Maria profile picture
Your dream team for a revitalizing daily double cleanse, great for your skin and budget. I use these separately and together, always easy to find on sale too!
Beauty of Joseon Double Cleansing Perfection
 
Noel Maria profile picture
If you're okay to splurge a little, this is a one stop shop cleanser. Nothing needed but this. I have used this for YEARS, and I will just buy the big refill bag during a sale and it lasts SO long. Seriously a staple in my rotating skin care line up....
Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser - Youth To The People

Hydrate & Plump

An extra layer of hydration without adding extra complexity. These lightweight gels and toners help calm, refresh, and plump the skin because sometimes your skin just needs a little more water.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
I use this like a hydrating serum/gel during the day for a lightweight layer of hydration and some extra bounce. I dont use it every day, but have been liking it as a summer layer, we'll see how it translates to the cold, dry winter.
Prequel Multi-Quench Plumping Hydrating Gel
 
Noel Maria profile picture
The absolute BEST quick step when I want extra hydration without adding weight and works just as well in the summer as it does in the winter. I have gone through 5-6 bottles, I will stand by this product forever.
Hydrating Toner: Balance Your Skin
 
Noel Maria profile picture
While not really a hydrating solution, I use this at the begining of my skincare routine after cleansing, I use it on the road while I travel for a refresh, and I used it throughout the workday. A purse and skincare staple. While you don't technicall...
Magic Molecule Face Spray
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Glow Without the 10-Serum Routine

You don’t need a serum for every skin concern. These are simple, hydrating formulas that help give skin that bouncy, healthy, lit-from-within look without layering five different serums every morning.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
Newest addition to my skincare routine. I add this before my toner and moisturizer, and so far I've been loving it for a little extra brightness. Will report back on the long term benefits!
Bright Icon Brightening Vitamin C Serum + E + Ferulic Acid
 
Noel Maria profile picture
My pick when my skin feels flat or dehydrated. Gives me that bouncy, plump feeling without adding another complicated active to my routine. I find this to be an easy “intro to serums” without having to figure out layering. Just add it after washing y...
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 (with Ceramides)

Moisturize & Protect Your Barrier

The goal: soft, hydrated, happy skin without a heavy, complicated routine. These are simple everyday moisturizers that lock in hydration, support your skin barrier, and actually feel good enough to use every day.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
Sensitive-skin miracle worker for all seasons. Especially good when my skin is dry, irritated, or just needs some serious hydration. I use this daily with a mix of other moisturizers depending on the season.
Prequel Skin Urea 10% Moisturizing Lotion
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Noel Maria profile picture
Saved my skin in the dry winter. A little too much for me in the summer, but when my skin barrier needs some serious TLC, this is it. Be warned it is a very thick cream, but seriously made my skin like glass in the winter!
Bubble - Soft Swerve Barrier Restore Balm
 
Noel Maria profile picture
Summer essential - light, easy, and I've gone through several jars. Perfect when I want hydration without feeling like I have a layer of moisturizer sitting on my face. I've used 4-5 jars already! I rotate this with other gel moisturizer brands, but ...
Holy Hydration! Gel-Yeah Moisturizer

SPF You'll Actually Want to Wear

The most important step and the one that’s easiest to skip. These are lightweight, everyday sunscreens that protect your skin without feeling heavy, greasy, or like you’re wearing sunscreen.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
I've used this for years, and it's my last step that never fails me. I usually wear it without foundation for a glowy-but-not-sweaty look.
Glowscreen SPF 40 - Tinted Sunscreen & Primer
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Noel Maria profile picture
When I want my SPF to feel more like skincare than makeup, this is my go-to. No white cast, super lightweight, and always reliable.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50
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Noel Maria profile picture
don't forget SPF for your lips!! I love the Vacation brand, it's fun and effective, and makes me want to apply it daily/whenever I'm outside. I have a few for my purse and my skincare in the bathroom!
Classic Whip Lip Balm SPF 30 - Vacation | Ulta Beauty

Clear Skin Without Going Overboard

Clear skin without the nuclear approach. These are the simple, targeted products that help with breakouts, congestion, and clogged pores without piling on a dozen actives.

 
Noel Maria profile picture
A best seller for a reason!! These have made such a difference in keeping my pores clear without adding another complicated step.
For clogged pores: Zero Pore Pads
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Noel Maria profile picture
Smells AMAZING and works even better. My go-to when my pores need a little extra attention without going completely overboard. I use this the most on my nose and chin, and feel like a new person after using it. Not only a skincare essential, but a se...
For an occasional deep clean: Mud Mask
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Noel Maria profile picture
Multi-use perfection.. face, scalp, underarms, you name it. Works wonders for the price and is one of those products I keep finding new uses for. I always have this stocked, I dont use it every day, but always have it available.
For texture + overall exfoliation: Glycolic Acid
 
Noel Maria profile picture
Bye-bye texture! A great intro to retinal if you want to start incorporating a retinoid without the hassle or price tag of some of the more intimidating options. I'm new to this, but loving the results so far.
For long-term texture + skin maintenance: Retinal