The Skincare Staples That Have Been Keeping My Skin in Check
This post has affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you decide to shop through them. I only share what I actually use and love.
My skin goes through phases (hormones included) and always signals to me when I’ve been neglecting it. I’ve had forehead bumps, the occasional breakout from falling asleep in makeup (I’m a repeat offender), oily afternoons where I have to blot, and dry patches if I don’t use the right moisturizer. Through trial, error, and some late-night TikTok searches, I’ve found a handful of products that have actually helped keep things steady. Nothing complicated — just what I’m reaching for right now.
PanOxyl Acne Foaming Wash — MY SPOT-RESCUE STEP
What it does: A benzoyl peroxide cleanser that kills acne-causing bacteria and helps reduce breakouts.
How I use it: I don’t use this every day, but if I notice little bumps or spots starting to surface, I’ll work it into my routine for a quick reset.
Mighty Patch — TINY STICKERS, BIG RESULTS
What it does: Hydrocolloid patches that draw out impurities from pimples while protecting them from bacteria and picking.
How I use it: I use the invisible ones during the day and the original ones overnight. They help shrink spots and prevent me from forcefully extracting them, which would cause dark marks.
Murad Clarifying Cleanser — THE DEEP CLEAN
What it does: A cleanser with salicylic acid that clears out clogged pores and targets acne.
How I use it: When my skin feels congested or I’ve been slacking on my routine, I reach for this to give my face a deeper clean and reset.
Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash — THE DAILY GENTLE CLEANSER
What it does: A gentle foaming cleanser that balances oily and dry areas without stripping the skin.
How I use it: This is my everyday face wash. It leaves me feeling clean and refreshed, and I’ll sometimes follow it after Murad to bring my skin back into balance.
Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Sage & Orange Blossom — MY MISTING RESET
What it does: A hydrating mist with botanicals that refreshes and preps the skin for moisturizer.
How I use it: I spray this every time I wash my face. It’s especially helpful if I’ve taken too long after a shower and my skin feels tight. It gives me that extra hydration before I apply moisturizer.
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer SPF 30 — SOFT, HYDRATED, PROTECTED
What it does: A lightweight moisturizer with ceramides, niacinamide, and SPF 30 that hydrates, strengthens the skin barrier, and protects against UV rays.
How I use it: I reach for this when my skin is feeling dry or tight. It leaves my skin soft, locks in hydration, and keeps me protected from the sun without feeling heavy.
Murad Oil and Pore Control Mattifier Broad Spectrum SPF 45 — SHINE CONTROL, ALL DAY
What it does: An oil-control moisturizer with SPF 45 that helps minimize the look of pores and keeps shine at bay for hours.
How I use it: On days when my skin is leaning oily, I swap my La Roche-Posay for this one. It keeps me matte without feeling chalky and doubles as my SPF.
This lineup has been my go-to lately. Simple, effective, and easy to stick to — just the products that have been making a difference for me. You can shop this whole post on my LTK.
