My Updated Morning Skincare Routine

Self-care has been on my mind more and more these past few days. And I’ve been making more of an effort to take care of my skin while we’ve been at home. I like my skincare routine to be quick, simple and effective. I am a firm believer that if you want your makeup to look nice and smooth, it starts with skin.

This 5-step routine has helped me achieve that glow while keeping my skin clear. Most of you know I suffer from acne and have sensitive skin, so if you’re in the same boat, I think you may find these products helpful too.

Let’s get into it!

1. CLEANSE 

First things first, always start with a cleanser. You may have heard it’s not necessary to wash your face in the morning with soap, but my dermatologist got me thinking differently. She pointed out that at night, we sweat (whether we know it or not) and dust particles from the air get on our skin. Not to mention you probably go to bed with serums or moisturizer, right?

Without cleansing, this buildup on the skin can lead to texture and poor luminosity. Especially because it prevents your skin from being able to renew itself overnight. And if you are someone who struggles with acne, this isn’t a great combo.

Washing with a gentle cleanser in the morning and at night will help keep your skin balanced and clear. The Clé de Peau Beauté Clarifying Cleansing Foam has been such a nice product for my skin. It’s incredibly gentle, yet gets off every trace of makeup at night (especially when you use with a muslin cloth). 

You only need a tiny amount (think pea size) mixed with warm water and you’ll notice it to foam and lather instantly. I like the clarifying cleanser since I have combination skin, but they also have other formulas for all skin types.

2. TONE

I use this toner (on sale) morning and night. It’s gentle and doesn’t strip my skin. I put this on a cotton round and press into my skin. 

3. TREAT

After balancing my skin, I use a serum to help with any skincare concerns. The Brightening Concentrate (also available at Nordstrom) is ideal if you want to focus on an even skin tone and fade dark spots. It’s packed with Vitamin C + Vitamin E and also works to reduce texture. I love this because its water-like texture melts into skin instantly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue or film. You only need one pump though — this stuff is really concentrated. 

If you are gearing up for a special event — the Illuminating Concentrate 3-Part Mask is a must. Truly. I used it last week and my skin instantly had this “post-facial” glow. If you are getting married, have a big event or just want to look fabulous, get this mask. When I use this mask, I start by cleansing, tone, mask, serum, and moisturize. 

4. MOISTURIZE

Over the years, I’ve found that a gel moisturizer works best on my skin. This one also melts into your skin and leaves it feeling soft and supple. I use a pea-sized amount right after my serum. 

For my eyes, I can’t live without this eye balm. It’s so good and gives a cooling effect immediately. I use morning and night. 

5. PROTECT 

It’s always a good idea to use an SPF but especially when using products with vitamin C or retinoids. I like this SPF Setting Spray after I apply makeup. I’ve used this brand for years and never had any issues with it breaking out my skin.