How to Build a Skincare Routine That Works (3, 5, 7 Steps)
3-Step Skincare Routine: The Beginner Glow-Up
Perfect for: minimalists, skincare newbies, sensitive skin, or those needing a barrier reset.
Steps:
Cleanser – Choose one that doesn’t strip or sting
Moisturizer – Locks in hydration + calms the skin
SPF (AM) / Barrier Cream or Facial Oil (PM)
✨ Why it works: It protects your skin barrier, keeps your moisture levels balanced, and sets the foundation for healthy, happy skin.
🧡 I started here when my skin was freaking out from too many products. This routine brought me back to baseline—and my glow slowly returned.
🔸 5-Step Skincare Routine: The Balanced Babe Ritual
Perfect for: combo skin, dullness, mild acne, or dry texture
Add to your 3-step routine:
4. Toner or Essence – Rebalances pH + preps the skin
5. Serum – Targets concerns (hydration, acne, texture, etc.)
✨ Why it works: It gives your skin a chance to level up without overwhelming it. The serum becomes your glow-boosting bestie—whether it’s hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, or vitamin C.
💫 This was the level where I finally saw a visible difference: fewer breakouts, more even tone, and a glow I didn’t need makeup to fake.
✨ 7-Step Skincare Routine: Glow Goddess Mode
Perfect for: skincare lovers, self-care nights, dry/aging skin, texture concerns
Add to your 5-step routine:
6. Exfoliant or Mask (2–3x/week) – Buffs off dead skin or nourishes
7. Facial Oil / Sleeping Mask – Seals in everything and supports overnight repair
✨ Why it works: It’s indulgent, luxurious, and effective. Perfect for PM routines or when your skin needs extra love.
🌙 My Sunday night 7-step ritual is how I start my week feeling soft, slow, and ready.
Skincare Routine Examples (By Skin Type)
Here’s what a full ritual might look like:
✧ For Dry Skin (AM):
Cream Cleanser → Hydrating Essence → Hyaluronic Acid Serum → Moisturizer → SPF
✧ For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin (PM):
Foaming Gel Cleanser → Niacinamide Toner → BHA Serum → Gel Moisturizer → Retinol (2x/week)
✧ For Sensitive Skin (AM/PM):
Gentle Cleanser → Centella or Oat Essence → Calming Serum → Barrier Cream → Mineral SPF
📝 Tips to Stay Consistent
Make your skincare visible – Display it on a cute tray or shelf
Pair it with a habit – After brushing your teeth or making tea
Turn it into a vibe – Candle, playlist, soft light
Track it – Use our Glow Tracker to stay on rhythm
Give it time – Your skin needs ~28 days to fully renew
🧘♀️ Personal Reflection: How I Made Peace with My Routine
Once I stopped comparing my skin to strangers online, everything changed. I learned that the best skincare isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency. I show up for my skin not to fix it, but to care for it.
And now? My routine is one of the softest parts of my day.
🕯️ Skincare isn’t just maintenance. It’s a return to yourself.
✨ Final Thoughts: Build Your Ritual, Not Just a Routine
Whether you’re starting with 3 steps or indulging in 7, you’re doing something beautiful: showing up for yourself.
Glow doesn’t come from more steps—it comes from showing up with softness, clarity, and care.
You’ve got this.
Want to make it stick?
Download our 30-Day Skincare Glow Tracker and build the habit with ease.
✨ [Download Now →]