Skincare Routine Must-Haves: Top Products for a Healthy Glow
A glowing, healthy complexion doesn’t require a 12-step process or a cabinet full of products. In fact, the key to great skin is having a simple, effective skincare routine you can stick to—morning and night.
Morning Skincare Routine: Your morning routine is all about protection and hydration. Here’s a simple 4-step plan to help you prep your skin for the day ahead:
- Cleanser – Start fresh with CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser. It’s gentle, non-stripping, and perfect for all skin types.
- Toner (optional) – If you want to balance oil and refine pores, try Paula’s Choice Pore-Reducing Toner. It’s especially helpful for combination or acne-prone skin.
- Moisturizer – Lock in hydration with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel, a lightweight gel moisturizer that’s oil-free and absorbs quickly. Apply your moisturizer while your skin is still slightly damp to help seal in hydration.
- Sunscreen – Never skip SPF. La Roche-Posay Anthelios SPF 60 offers broad-spectrum protection with a non-greasy finish.
Night Skincare Routine: Night time is your skin’s chance to recover. Here’s how to build a calming, effective routine that works while you sleep:
- Cleanser – Remove makeup and the day’s buildup with e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Daily Cleanser. It’s affordable, fragrance-free, and effective.
- Serum – Target breakouts or texture with The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%. This lightweight serum helps reduce blemishes and improve skin tone.
- Moisturizer – At night, you can use a richer product. CeraVe PM Facial Moisturizing Lotion is a great option—non-comedogenic and packed with ceramides and niacinamide. Or you can stick with one moisturizer only.
- Under Eye Cream – If you want to treat fine lines or puffiness, e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Eye Cream is budget-friendly and soothing.
Bonus: Add a gentle exfoliator 2–3 times a week like Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant to keep pores clear and skin glowing.
Want a Quick Fix? Try a full skincare routine set. The Clinique 3-Step Skin Care System remains a go-to, with options based on skin type. For combo/oily skin, their “Type 3” kit includes:
- Liquid Facial Soap
- Clarifying Lotion
- Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
You don’t need every product under the sun—just a few that work for your skin and your routine. Whether you’re starting with a complete skincare routine or just picking a few essentials, the goal is consistency.
