Glass Skin Goals: The Perfect Skincare Routine (With Products That Actually Work)

A flawless skincare routine isn’t about having a million steps—it’s about using the right products in the right order for your skin type. Whether you’re aiming for that glowy, dewy look or just want healthy, balanced skin, this skincare routine gives you a step-by-step guide using effective, trustworthy products you can actually count on.

Step 1: Cleanser – Start Fresh

Product Picks:

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (great for dry or sensitive skin)
Youth to the People Superfood Cleanser (perfect for oily or combo skin)
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Purifying Foaming Cleanser (gentle and effective)

Your cleanser should lift dirt, oil, and any overnight buildup without stripping your skin. Use lukewarm water and gently massage for at least 60 seconds.

Step 2: Toner – Reset Your Skin

Product Picks:

Pixi Glow Tonic (brightens with glycolic acid)
Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (alcohol-free and calming)
Laneige Cream Skin Toner & Moisturizer (hydrating for dry skin)

Toner helps balance your skin’s pH and preps it for the rest of your routine. Go for gentle ingredients like rose water, aloe, or acids depending on your needs.

Step 3: Serum – Targeted Treatment

Product Picks:

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% (helps with acne and oil control)
Glow Recipe Plum Plump Hyaluronic Serum (deep hydration + plump effect)
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (Vitamin C powerhouse for brightening)

Serums are the heavy lifters of your skincare routine. Choose one based on your skin goals: hydration, acne control, brightening, or firming.

Step 4: Moisturizer – Seal the Deal

Product Picks:

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel-Cream (lightweight hydration)
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream (rich and nourishing)
Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream (luxury glow, especially for dry skin)

No matter your skin type, don’t skip this step. Moisturizer locks in everything you just applied and keeps your skin barrier healthy.

Step 5: Eye Cream – Gentle Touch

Product Picks:

The INKEY List Caffeine Eye Cream (reduces puffiness)
OLEHENRIKSEN Banana Bright Eye Crème (brightens and smooths)
Cetaphil Hydrating Eye Gel-Cream (gentle and lightweight)

While not essential for everyone, eye creams can help with puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines if you’re consistent.

Step 6: SPF (AM Only) – Non-Negotiable

Product Picks:

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 (invisible and smooth)
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30 (no white cast, ultra moisturizing)
EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (perfect for acne-prone or sensitive skin)

Sunscreen is the #1 anti-aging and skin-protecting product—period. Apply it every single day, even if you’re staying indoors.

Step 7: Nighttime Add-On – Optional But Powerful

PM Extras:

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution (once a week for glow)
Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant (clears pores, evens skin)
Differin Adapalene Gel (great for acne-prone skin)

Only use actives at night and never layer too many at once. Start slow to avoid irritation.

Final Thoughts

The perfect skincare routine is consistent, minimal, and built around your skin—not trends. Focus on hydration, sun protection, and ingredients that treat your specific concerns. Give your products time to work, and remember: great skin doesn’t happen overnight—but it does happen.