Skincare Routine Order
For those nights when I’m feeling tired and eager to get to bed fast, this nighttime skincare routine is my go-to. Many of you have asked for an update on my PM routine, and I’m excited to share my simplified steps that get my skin fresh and ready, whether I’ve had a light makeup day or gone a bit more glam. In this post, I’ll walk you through my quick and easy nighttime skincare routine—perfect for winding down and getting some well-deserved rest!
First Cleanse
Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 Mattifying
I always start my nighttime skincare routine with micellar water, effectively lifting away any makeup and impurities. This Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water is one of my favorites—I’ve been using it for years and absolutely love it.
It’s gentle yet effective. I give the bottle a good shake, soak a cotton pad, and swipe it over my face to remove sunscreen, foundation, and concealer. For eye makeup, I hold the cotton pad over my eyes for about 30 seconds before gently wiping it away. This technique allows the micellar water to dissolve the makeup, minimizing any need for harsh scrubbing.
If you find that micellar water isn’t fully removing your eye makeup, try letting it soak into your lashes for a moment before wiping. And don’t worry if some residue remains—the second cleanse will take care of the rest.
TIP: Allow the micellar water-soaked cotton pad to sit on your eye makeup for a few
seconds to make removal easier.
Second Cleanse
Salicylic Acid Cleanser from The Inkey List
Next, I go in with The Inkey List’s Salicylic Acid Cleanser. I dispense a dime-sized amount onto my hand, lather it up with a bit of water, and massage it into my face, focusing on areas like my nose where my pores are more prominent. This cleanser is perfect for unclogging pores, reducing blackheads, and preventing breakouts, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin types.
The pH of this cleanser is around 4.5, matching the skin’s natural pH, which ranges from 4.5 to 6. This helps maintain the skin’s barrier while keeping the salicylic acid effective for exfoliation. Using a cleanser with a pH that matches your skin can prevent that stripped feeling some traditional soaps leave behind.
The double cleanse method is great for those who wear makeup or water-resistant sunscreen. It involves using a makeup remover or cleansing oil first, followed by a water-based cleanser to wash away any remaining impurities. For those with lighter routines, a single cleanse may be enough.
Some of you have asked if I’ve tried facial cleansing tools like the Foreo LUNA or PMD Microdermabrasion. I haven’t yet, but I’m open to exploring them in the future. Currently, I prefer using a cotton pad, the Wonder Cloth, and my fingertips for a gentle, effective cleanse. If you have any favorite cleansing tools or experiences to share, I’d love to hear from you—feel free to leave a comment below!
TIP: Look for products with multiple actives to
simplify your routine.
Opt for nighttime skincare products with multiple active ingredients to simplify your routine and achieve more benefits with fewer steps. For example, look for serums that combine antioxidants like vitamin C with hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid. This way, you can address multiple skin concerns, such as brightening, hydration, and anti-aging, all in one product. Multi-tasking formulas not only save time but also reduce the number of products needed, making your nighttime skincare routine efficient and effective.
Toner
Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing/Pore-Reducing Toner
After cleansing, I prep my skin with Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Pore-Reducing Toner. I rub a few drops into my hands and press it into my face. Toners help remove residual impurities and rebalance the skin’s pH, making it less prone to oiliness and blemishes. This toner also contains niacinamide, which helps control sebum production, smooth skin texture, and reduce redness.
Since using this toner, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s clarity and texture. It’s effective in brightening and evening out my skin tone while minimizing the appearance of pores. Paula’s Choice has been my go-to toner for years—it’s a must-have for me!
Moisturizer
Naturium Retinol Complex Cream
After toning, I move on to moisturizing with Naturium’s Retinol Complex Cream, the final step in my simple nighttime skincare routine. This all-in-one cream is a perfect introduction to retinol. It combines encapsulated retinol, bio-retinol, bakuchiol (a plant-based alternative that mimics retinol’s effects without irritation), and biomimetic lipids. This blend works to improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, and even out skin tone, leaving the complexion softer and more radiant.
The cream is lightweight and hydrating, making it an excellent choice for nighttime skincare. I’ve never experienced any peeling or irritation, despite its gentle exfoliating effects. Since using this product in my nighttime routine, I’ve noticed a visible improvement in my skin’s smoothness and radiance. It’s perfect for those new to retinol or looking for a gentle, effective option.
The product has a pH level between 5.00-5.75, specifically formulated to support skin health and ensure optimal results. This balanced pH helps the cream deliver retinol benefits gently, making it suitable even for those new to nighttime skincare.
Product Highlights:
- Cruelty-Free
- Paraben-Free
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Fragrance-Free
- Dermatologist-Tested
To use, apply a thin layer as the last step in your nighttime routine, covering your face, neck, and chest while avoiding the eye area. If you experience mild redness or irritation, try using it every other night until your skin adjusts—consider doing a patch test before first use to ensure compatibility with your skin.
So, that’s my simplified PM skincare routine for those nights when I just need to keep things simple and get to bed quickly. Remember, a consistent skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated—using effective, multi-tasking products can help you care for your skin while saving time.
This quick nighttime skincare routine is based on my personal experience and preferences. While I hope it offers helpful insights, it’s important to remember that everyone’s skin and lifestyle are unique. Please follow a routine that works best for you and your skin’s needs. My suggestions are just that—suggestions. Ultimately, the most effective routine is the one that suits you and makes you feel your best.
I hope this routine inspires you to create your own quick and easy nightly regimen. What are your go-to PM skincare products? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!
As always, thank you for reading!
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