How to Build a Clean Skincare Routine from Scratch
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Skincare can feel super overwhelming. Serums, acids, oils, toners, essences… what even is all this stuff, and do we really need it?
If you’ve ever stared at a shelf full of fancy bottles wondering where to even begin—this post is for you. We’re ditching the complicated, harsh, and overly hyped-up stuff and keeping it simple. You’re about to build a clean, effective skincare routine from scratch using non-toxic, skin-loving products that won’t break the bank or fry your face.
Let’s get that glow-up started.
✨ Step 1: Know Your Skin Type (Seriously, Don’t Skip This)
Before you do anything, figure out if your skin is:
- Dry (feels tight, flaky)
- Oily (shiny, prone to breakouts)
- Combination (oily T-zone, dry cheeks)
- Sensitive (gets red or irritated easily)
- Normal (pretty balanced—lucky you!)
🔍 Lazy tip: Wash your face, pat dry, and don’t apply anything. After an hour, check how your skin feels. Tight? Dry. Shiny? Oily. Both? Combo.
Knowing your skin type is essential so you’re not slathering coconut oil on already oily skin (yes, we’ve all made that mistake 😅).
🧼 Step 2: Start with a Gentle Cleanser
No sulfates. No harsh scrubbing. Just a nice, gentle cleanse to wash off dirt, oil, and the drama of the day.
Top Pick:
CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser – Perfect for dry or sensitive skin. Super gentle and dermatologist-loved.
Want something more foamy for oily or combo skin?
Try La Roche-Posay Purifying Foaming Cleanser
💧 Step 3: Use a Non-Toxic Toner (Optional, But Glowy)
Toner balances your skin’s pH and preps it for your serums or moisturizers. Just don’t use the alcohol-packed kind from the 2000s that smells like nail polish remover. Yikes.
Clean Pick:
Thayers Witch Hazel Toner (Alcohol-Free) – Soothing, gentle, and packed with aloe vera. It’s a cult fave for a reason.
🌿 Step 4: Add a Simple Serum for Glow Goals
Serums are where the real magic happens. You don’t need 10. You just need one or two that work for your skin’s needs.
- Dry or dull skin? Try Hyaluronic Acid Serum for hydration and plumpness.
- Uneven tone or dark spots? Go for a clean Vitamin C Serum.
- Acne-prone skin? Look for a gentle Niacinamide Serum.
✨ Pro tip: Use 2–3 drops and gently pat it into your skin—don’t rub like you’re scrubbing a countertop.
🧴 Step 5: Moisturize—Yes, Even If You’re Oily
Everyone needs moisture. The key is finding the right formula for your skin type.
Best Clean Moisturizers by Skin Type:
- Dry skin: CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
- Oily skin: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
- Sensitive skin: Aveeno Calm + Restore Oat Gel
☀️ Step 6: Don’t Skip Sunscreen (Even Indoors!)
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. UV damage causes 90% of skin aging, even if you’re just chilling by a window. Trust us—your 40-year-old self will thank you.
Top Pick:
EltaMD UV Clear Sunscreen SPF 46 – Lightweight, clean formula, no white cast, and acne-safe.
🌙 Bonus: Add a Nighttime Oil or Mask
Want that dewy, glass-skin glow? Add a face oil or overnight mask to lock in hydration and treat your skin while you sleep.
- The Ordinary Rosehip Seed Oil – A clean, simple oil that helps with scars, redness, and texture.
- LANEIGE Water Sleeping Mask – An OG K-beauty holy grail for hydration.
💡 Quick Recap: Your 6-Step Clean Skincare Routine
- Cleanser
- (Optional) Toner
- Serum
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen (AM only)
- Face oil or night mask (PM)
Stick to this for a few weeks, and your skin will literally thank you.
💬 Final Thoughts: Skincare Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Building a clean skincare routine doesn’t mean spending hundreds or being a beauty chemist. You just need a few key products that work for your skin and are free of harsh, toxic junk.
Start small. Be consistent. And let that glow-up do its thing.
Stay organized with these cute, easy-to-use planners—get now for free!
