In my early 20s, I learned about skincare when I worked the front desk at a wellness spa. I had the opportunity to get facials by professional estheticians who educated me about my skin and recommended products tailored to my specific needs.

I first learned about my skin type: sensitive, combination (oily + dry), and cystic-prone. Before starting any skincare regimen, it’s essential to learn about your skin type and what it needs to feel and look the best. I absolutely love facials, but I don’t get them as often as I used to.

To maintain my skin, I use a mix of store-bought brands and medical-grade brands like PCA Skin, along with techniques I picked up during my spa days. So, slip on your soft, fluffy headband and follow me on my spa-inspired skincare routine!

*Author’s Note: This article is not sponsored by any of the skincare brands mentioned.

1) Cleanse

Cleansing involves a two-part process to thoroughly remove makeup, dirt, and oil from the day. For the first part, I wash my face with the CeraVe Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser, a creamy cleanser that removes dirt and makeup without drying out the skin. To remove the leftover layer of makeup, I use the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water with a cotton pad.

What I love about the creamy cleanser and micellar water is that they’re scentless, gentle on my skin, and budget-friendly.

The second part of cleansing includes a steam-like facial wash. During a spa facial, a steamer is on to open up the pores and prepare it for deeper treatment. I like to simulate this with steam from the hot water when I shower (disclaimer: the hot water is only for the steam, I do not shower under this type of temperature).

I wash my face (in gentle, circular, and sweeping-like motions) with the PCA Skin Facial Wash, a gentle cleanser with moisturizing, skin-softening, and antioxidant benefits.

What I love about this facial wash is its subtle honey-like scent and how it cleanses without drying out my skin.

2) Exfoliate

Exfoliating is limited to twice a week (this may be different for others) because it’s enough to remove the dead skin cells and excess oil that leads to cystic breakouts or those nasty bumps under the skin that can get irritated and painful.

I use the PCA Skin Daily Exfoliant, a gentle exfoliant that removes the dead skin cells with hydrating and antioxidant benefits.

What I love about this exfoliant is that it doesn’t have a harsh, grainy texture that feels rough against my skin.

3) Tone

Toning helps further improve my skin’s texture. I use the PCA Skin Nutrient Toner, a pumpkin wine-based toner that keeps the skin soft and supple with vitamin A and vitamin C.

During a facial, the esthetician would use a round cotton pad with a small amount of this toner and sweep it upward over my face and neck.

What I love about it then and now is its pumpkin scent (it reminds me of autumn) and how refreshed my skin feels afterward.

4) Moisturize

Moisturizing replenishes the skin barrier and locks in the moisture after cleansing, exfoliating, and toning. Oiliness is one of my biggest concerns, so I’m picky about my moisturizer.

I use the BeautyStat Universal Pro-Bio Moisture Boost Cream, a light and airy probiotic cream that hydrates without the greasy residue.

What I love about this moisturizer is that it’s scentless and applies smoothly.

5) Eye Treatment

Eye treatments help with fine lines, wrinkles, de-puffing, and dark under-eye circles. I use the Good Molecules Yerba Mate Wake Up Eye Gel, an antioxidant eye gel that de-puffs and brightens the skin.

What I love about this eye gel is the light texture and it’s budget-friendly. However, I’m searching for a different eye treatment that more effectively targets dark under-eye circles.

6) Lip Treatment

At the end of a facial, the esthetician would put a lip treatment (like the cherry on top) to moisturize, exfoliate, repair, and protect the lips.

I use the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask [Berry], an overnight lip mask that softens and protects with antioxidants like vitamin C.

What I love about this lip mask is the berry scent and smooth texture that’s non-sticky and long-lasting.

My Spa-Inspired Skincare Routine