The Ultimate Beginner Skincare Routine (That Doesn’t Require a Chemistry Degree)
The name’s Salty, and I’m here to rescue your face from your half-hearted, soap-and-water-only “routine.” Look, I get it—skincare can feel like decoding an ancient scroll written by dermatologists and 12-year-old influencers. But you don’t need 14 serums and a magnifying mirror to look human.
So here’s the no-nonsense, Amazon-available beginner skincare routine that won’t confuse you, bankrupt you, or set your skin on fire. Just 5 steps, under $100 total, and actually works for normal, oily, dry, or combo skin.
💦 Step 1: Cleanser (Yes, You Still Need to Wash Your Face)
CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser
Best for: Normal to oily skin
Price: $12.39 (16 oz)
Why It Works:
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Gentle, non-stripping
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Contains ceramides + niacinamide
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Dermatologist-loved without the derm bill
Salty’s Take:
If your skin could talk, it would file a complaint against your current body wash. This is better.
💧 Step 2: Toner (Optional, but Makes You Feel Fancy)
Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner (Unscented)
Best for: All skin types, especially sensitive
Price: $10.73 (12 oz)
Why It Works:
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Alcohol-free = no stinging
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Aloe soothes, witch hazel balances
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Big bottle, small price
Salty’s Take:
Totally optional—but if you love an extra step that says “I’m trying,” this one won’t betray you.
🧴 Step 3: Moisturizer (Don’t Skip This. Ever.)
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Best for: All skin types
Price: $17.98 (1.7 oz)
Why It Works:
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Lightweight, oil-free, absorbs fast
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Hyaluronic acid = moisture magnet
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Doesn’t leave your face sticky
Salty’s Take:
This is what hydration should feel like—cool, smooth, and not greasy like a slice of pizza.
🛡️ Step 4: Sunscreen (Unless You Enjoy Premature Wrinkles)
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46
Best for: Sensitive + acne-prone skin
Price: $43.00 (1.7 oz
Why It Works:
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Mineral-based + niacinamide
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Lightweight, no white cast
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Recommended by derms and Salty alike
Salty’s Take:
If you buy one thing on this list, make it this. Sunscreen is the skincare MVP—and you need it every day.
🌙 Step 5: Night Cream or Add-Ons (If You’re Feeling Ambitious)
e.l.f. Holy Hydration! Night Cream
Best for: Dry or tired skin
Price: $12.00 (1.76 oz)
Why It Works:
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Peptides + hyaluronic acid
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Affordable and effective
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Doesn’t clog pores or overwhelm
Salty’s Take:
Great as a nighttime step when your skin needs more than just a “good luck” pat.
🧼 Salty’s Final Word on Beginner Skincare
You don’t need 27 products and a skincare fridge. You just need the right stuff—and the guts to actually use it. Stick to this 3-5 step routine, and you’ll stop wondering why your face feels like sandpaper dipped in regret.
Every product here is:
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Beginner-friendly
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Affordable
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Available on Amazon
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Non-irritating
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Salty-approved