My Morning Skincare Routine for the Dewiest Skin Ever

If you’ve been following me for awhile, you know how much I love my dewy skincare products. I want my face to shine in a way that makes you wonder if I’m glowy or sweaty (it’s usually a mixture of both), and be so hydrated that I don’t have to reapply moisturizer throughout the day. My routine consists of a few staple products, as well as a few that I switch out depending on how my skin is doing and what it needs. Keep in mind that what works for me may not work for you, and it’s important to consult your dermatologist before adding any active ingredients into your routine. For reference, my skin is extremely dry and eczema-prone and my preferred finish is glowy, dewy, and ultra-hydrated. Here are all of the steps in my morning skincare routine and my favorite products in each category. (PS: You can learn more about each product by clicking on the pictures.)

Essence

I always use an essence as the first step in my morning routine. An essence is an essential step for me because it helps improve the overall efficacy of the other skincare products that layer on top of it. I apply these right after wetting my face (regardless of whether or not I cleanse that morning) to help seal in hydration and prepare my skin for the next few steps. Essences also help skin appear plumper and brighter over time.

Vitamin C Serum

Especially as I’ve gotten older and have seen more of a need to combat dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and other discoloration, vitamin C has become an integral part of my morning routine. Vitamin C has powerful antioxidant properties that help protect the skin against free radicals and other environmental stressors. The vitamin also works to target dark spots, usually caused by sun damage or inflammation. Vitamin C also plays well with SPF, making it a great ingredient to use in the morning.

Other Serums

This is an optional step that I don’t always need to utilize, but if my skin is in need of extra hydration or I need to target certain trouble areas, I’ll add in another serum after my vitamin C.

Moisturizer

For daytime, I typically look for moisturizers that are deeply hydrating and don’t have to be reapplied throughout the day. I really could start and end the list with my ultimate fave, the Tatcha Dewy Skin Cream, but there are a few others that I cycle through as well. While the previous steps help build up the glossy finish, the moisturizer is the step that really seals the deal. I love moisturizers that feel luxurious and buttery on the skin, usually packed with botanicals, ceramides, and other nourishing and soothing ingredients.

Sunscreen

Naturally, I can’t finish off a morning skincare routine without SPF. You’re probably sick of hearing people say “wear sunscreen,” but seriously — wear sunscreen. It’s the best thing you can do to prevent premature signs of aging, hyperpigmentation and other discoloration, and a myriad of skin diseases. And make sure your SPF is totally separate from your other products (no, your tinted moisturizer + SPF isn’t enough). These sunscreens leave a glossy, dewy finish on the skin, they’re non-comedogenic, and don’t leave a white cast on my medium-tan skin.

Face Oil

I don’t use face oils everyday, but I especially love them when I’m at home and have nowhere to go. They help seal in moisture and keep my skin looking glossy the whole day. Face oils are especially helpful when it’s super dry outside — which is pretty normal, given that I live in LA — because they help revitalize my skin’s moisture barrier. Keep in mind that some sunscreens don’t play well with oils (the oil breaks down the formula), so just make sure your products can all be used together before layering.

All of the products listed here are ones that I actually love and use on a regular basis. If you purchase anything by clicking on the links, I may earn a small commission. Thanks in advance for your support!


Did any of your favorite products make the list? Let me know in the comments below!

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