Okay so real talk – mornings can be chaotic. Whether you’re waking up late, running on 3 hours of sleep, or just not a morning person (same tbh ), doing a skincare routine can feel like a lot. But trust me, if you wanna keep your skin fresh, glowing, and not looking like a shriveled raisin by noon, hydration is key.
Here’s a simple-ish morning skincare routine that helps keep your skin fresh, happy, and ready to face the day (or at least survive it lol). Works for most skin types unless your skin is like super complicated (and even then we got some workarounds )
️ Step 1: Cleanser (but don’t overdo it)
What to use:
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Gentle gel or foaming cleanser (CeraVe, Simple, Cetaphil – all good stuff)
Why:
You don’t need to scrub your face like you’ve been digging in dirt all night . A mild cleanse gets rid of sweat, oil, leftover night products etc without stripping your skin dry.
Tip:
If your skin is super dry or sensitive, you can even skip the cleanser and just rinse with water. I know it sounds weird but it works for some ppl.
Step 2: Toner or Mist (optional but kinda nice)
What to use:
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Hydrating toners with stuff like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, rose water
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Or just a face mist if you’re lazy lol
Why:
Toners are like a prep step – they help your skin soak in all the good stuff after. Plus they feel nice when your face is still waking up.
Don’t:
Don’t use toners with alcohol that smell like nail polish remover. No one needs that kind of energy in the morning.
Step 3: Serum (hello hydration )
What to use:
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Hyaluronic acid serum is your bff here
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Niacinamide if you want oil control + glow
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Vitamin C if you wanna brighten things up (but can be a bit strong for some)
Why:
Serums are where the magic happens. They’re concentrated and give your skin the “omg you look awake” look, even when you’re not. HA (hyaluronic acid) pulls in water to plump your skin up. Think of it like giving your skin a big drink
Tip:
Apply serums on slightly damp skin = better results (don’t let it dry fully after toner/mist)
Step 4: Moisturizer (don’t skip this even if you’re oily)
What to use:
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Gel moisturizers for oily skin
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Creams or balms for dry skin
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Something lightweight for combo skin
Why:
Lock all that hydration in. If you just use serum and leave it, your skin’s like “cool story bro” and the water just evaporates . Moisturizer seals it in and keeps skin soft.
Mistake people make:
Using too much or using thick stuff when it’s hot. Then you end up shiny and annoyed. Pick the right texture for your skin and weather.
☀️ Step 5: Sunscreen (non-negotiable, babes)
What to use:
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SPF 30 or higher
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Lightweight formulas that don’t leave white cast
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Try Korean sunscreens if you hate sticky ones
Why:
Sunscreen isn’t just for when you’re on vacation. UV rays are out here everyday, even when it’s cloudy or you’re indoors near windows. No sunscreen = all that good skincare goes to waste. Plus, it helps prevent wrinkles, dark spots and future regrets
Tip:
Reapply if you’re going out a lot. Or use a sunscreen spray/powder later in the day. And yes, even if it’s winter. Still gotta wear it.
✨ Bonus: Eye Cream? Lip Balm? Face Massage?
Totally optional but kinda nice if you have the time.
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Eye cream: Helps with puffiness if you woke up looking like a raccoon
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Lip balm: No one likes crusty lips
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Face massage: Gua sha or just your fingers – helps de-puff and wake up your face
If you’re in a rush, skip these. But if you’re feelin’ fancy… go for it.
Quick Recap (for sleepy brains):
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Cleanse – wash off the sleepy face
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Tone or Mist – optional but refreshing
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Serum – hydrate + glow up
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Moisturize – seal the deal
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Sunscreen – protect like your life depends on it (lowkey it does lol)
Final Thoughts (and a lil pep talk)
You don’t need a 10-step routine with products that cost more than your rent. A solid 3-5 steps is more than enough to keep your skin fresh and hydrated all day. The key is consistency. Even on lazy mornings. Even on Mondays. Even when your skin looks fine already.
And hey, if you forget a step or sleep in or just don’t feel like doing it one day… it’s fine. Skincare isn’t a punishment. It’s just taking care of yourself a little, and your skin will thank you later