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It wasn’t until my late 30’s I started noticing changes in my skin and at 39 I decided it would be best to start a real skincare routine. Up until then the only step in my skincare routine was Thayer’s toner and I was using it daily.

Developing a skincare routine has been an absolute game-changer for me. While I had always valued self-care, I realized that taking care of my skin was just as important as any other aspect of my wellness routine. The decision to start a dedicated morning skincare routine wasn't just about achieving that coveted glow; it was an act of self-love and empowerment. I honestly regret not starting sooner.

As I explored different products and techniques, I learned that investing in my skin's health not only enhanced my appearance but also boosted my self-confidence. It's never too late to prioritize self-care, and I'm living proof that you can achieve radiant, glowing skin at any age with the right routine. So, if you're contemplating your own skincare journey, take the leap – your future self will thank you! ✨

In this blog post I’ll share with you my morning skincare routine for radiant, glowing skin. But before we get into it I would like to preface this by saying I am NOT a dermatologist or a skincare expert, I don’t claim to be. I’m just sharing my own personal knowledge and experience. Do with that what you will. I always try to encourage everyone out there to consult with your dermatologist and do your own research for your own personal skincare needs and goals.

step 1. gua sha & face oil

I use a stainless steel gua sha with coffee oil in the morning. This helps to decrease puffiness in my face while stimulating lymphatic drainage and circulation. When I do this, I notice results instantly. You can try for yourself by just using the gua sha tool on only one side of your face, it’s really incredible the difference it makes.

I love using a steel gua sha tool, it stays really cold and feels so soothing to my skin in the morning. I personally don’t know much of the history and am not going to get into all of the benefits of gua sha… I’m no expert but here is a great resource if you wanted to look into it more.

There are so many benefits of using coffee oil on your skin, don’t sleep on this stuff. I love Desert Essence because it is pure coffee oil with coconut oil and jojoba oil, nothing else…no dyes, no fragrances and no preservatives. So if you’re a sensitive skin type girlie like me, I got you.

Coffee oil is full of antioxidants which is so good for your skin as antioxidants help fight aging. Coffee oil can increase collagen and elastin, making the skin look and feel firmer.

In short, coffee oil protects, moisturizes, and rejuvenates the skin, while the invigorating aroma of the Coffee Oil helps to uplift mood. And if you don’t like the smell of coffee this isn’t for you. Read more about coffee oil and all the amazing benefits here.

step 2. cleanse

Cleansing your skin at least 1-2 times a day not only helps remove excess dirt, oils and dead skin cells but it also primes the skin for other skincare treatments or acne treatments, if necessary.

I’ve heard so many good things about Paula’s Choice and what I love most about it is that it’s fragrance free and perfect for sensitive skin types. This brand has a lot to choose from so whatever your skincare needs or goals are I’m sure there is something for everyone. This is the one I use, it contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated.

step 3. tone

After cleansing you tone. I am a Thayer’s stan. I’ve been using Thayer’s toner specifically the rose petal flavor since 2016. It was the first skincare product I ever used for my skin. And people would compliment me on my skin all. the. time.

Thayer’s use all natural ingredients and it’s alcohol free. There are so many toners out there that have alcohol in them…like why? Alcohol is so harsh on skin, especially the face.

I like to put toner on an organic cotton ball and wipe all over my face and neck. It helps to get off any residual dirt or makeup and it hydrates and refreshes my face. I definitely believe this is one of the products I use that really helps to give me more glowing, radiant skin. It also helps to prep the skin better for any serums used after…which leads me to the next steps…

steps 4 & 5. serums

The next steps, 4 & 5, I use serums. In step 4 I use hyaluronic acid serum. Hyaluronic acid is hydrating for your face, it helps skin retain its moisture. It also helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles while increasing skin’s elasticity and flexibility.

I use the brand Tree of Life serums in a trio value pack, it comes with Hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C and retinol (the retinol is a part of my night time skincare routine). I thought it was a better price than buying them all individually. Some of this skincare can be a little pricey so wherever I can save is a win. I put this all over my face and neck and let it soak in before I put on the Vitamin C.

Step 5, Vitamin C. If you use the Tree of Life brand, I’m telling you a little goes a loooonnnggg way, you seriously don’t need to use that much. There is literally so many benefits of topical Vitamin C like why didn’t I start this sooner??

It can brighten dull skin, slow the skin’s aging process, prevent sun damage, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, can help reduce hyperpigmentation and so much more. Definitely look into Vitamin C and see if it’s something you want to add into your skincare routine. I am personally loving what it has done for my skin since I’m a sun goddess and everything ;)

steps 6 & 7. moisturize

Steps 6 & 7 are moisturizers. Step 6 I’m using Paula’s Choice retinol skin smoothing body lotion. If I were to actually use this as a body lotion it probably wouldn’t even last 2 weeks, let’s bffr. You absolutely can if you want to but I cannot at this time. I love Paula’s Choice, they are well made products that use quality ingredients but they are higher end and your girl’s finances are a little low right now….one day I will.

Ok but the body lotion is just as good as a moisturizer for your face and it’s super light weight which is perfect in warmer climates and temperatures. It contains retinol, shea butter, & evening primrose oil which is all very nourishing, smoothing and hydrating for the skin. Retinol helps to preserve collagen stores and stimulates new collagen production for younger looking skin, it also treats hyperpigmentation and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. FYI if you’re going to use a retinol serum by itself, it’s best to use it as a part of your night time skincare routine.

I will say I don’t always do step 7 because it depends if I’m going to be outside a lot or not as it contains SPF. It’s a tinted moisturizer that has SPF and with the CoverGirl BB cream a little goes a long way. The first time I used it, I definitely used too much and it ended up rubbing off, like peeling off my skin…it was not a good look, lol.

But it’s that final step that really makes my skin glow. Another reason why I don’t use it often is because of the ingredient profile, it does contain some harsh chemical ingredients and I will most definitely be switching to something better for my skin. This was one I could afford at the time and I wanted to try a tinted moisturizer. I really want to try La Roche-Posay tinted sunscreen, it’s 100% mineral, fragrance-free and oxy-benzone-free.

Well that wraps up my morning skincare routine for glowing, radiant skin. I hope you enjoyed this blog post and found it useful. Share it or pin it on Pinterest to save it for future reference.

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