
Do you want a Glowing Skin in 2024? Well, When it comes to skincare, you’re probably as confused as the rest of us. Influencers and celebrities talk about their 20-step routines that promise “glass skin,” making you think you need a cabinet full of products to get great results. But here’s the thing—most of that is just hype!
The truth is, 80% of the benefits you’ll see in your skin come from just a few simple steps. Let’s break down the myths and get into the essentials of an effective skincare routine. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, I’ve got you covered with tips and advice that actually work. 😊✨

Why Skincare Seems complicated Nowadays?
We’ve all seen it—those skincare gurus in youtube and Tiktok who insist that their elaborate, 20-step routines are the secret to glowing, flawless skin😂. They promise that without this routine, they’d look like “Deadpool’s left nut” (to put it bluntly!). But in reality, you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars or countless hours slathering on serums, toners, and masks.
The truth is, a lot of skincare benefits come from simplifying your routine. Focus on a few key habits and products, and you’ll see more results than you would with a crowded shelf of skincare bottles.
3 Must-Have Lifestyle Habits for Glowing Skin in 2024
Before you spend a penny on skincare products, let’s talk about the three essential lifestyle changes you need to make. Trust me—without these, even the best products won’t make a big difference. These steps create a foundation for healthy, glowing skin, so it’s crucial to nail them down first. 🚀
1. Clean Up Your Diet
There’s no way around it: what you eat affects your skin. If you’re munching on processed foods, refined sugars, and seed oils, your skin will show it. Many dermatologists might tell you that diet doesn’t impact your skin, but tons of real-life experience (my own included) prove otherwise.
When you start eliminating these harmful foods from your diet, you’ll notice clearer skin, fewer breakouts, and an overall healthier appearance. Not to mention, you might even get leaner and more fit in the process—bonus! 💪 A healthy gut equals glowing skin in 2024, so getting your gut bacteria back in balance by avoiding junk food is step one.
2. Prioritize Sleeping Like a Pro
Lack of sleep is a silent skin killer. When you’re not getting enough sleep, your body produces more cortisol, the stress hormone that wreaks havoc on your skin. Cortisol increases inflammation and sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and more breakouts.
To prevent this, aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night. Stick to a consistent bedtime, create a relaxing wind-down routine, and do whatever it takes to reduce stress in your life.
Whether it’s going to the gym, meditating, or doing yoga—find what works for you. Consistent, restful sleep will not only improve your mood and energy but also make your skin glow.
3. Keep Things Clean—Your Environment Matters!
You may not realize it, but your sheets, towels, and phone can be breeding grounds for bacteria that mess with your skin. 😷 If you’re sleeping on the same sheets for weeks or using dirty towels, you’re putting your face in contact with oils and dead skin cells that clog your pores and cause breakouts.
Make sure to wash your sheets and towels weekly with hot water to kill bacteria. Also, wipe down your phone regularly—this might sound gross, but it has more bacteria than a toilet seat.
And since you’re constantly pressing it against your face, it’s important to keep it clean. Regular hygiene practices like this can make a huge difference for your skin.

The Only Skincare Routine that works 100%
Now that we’ve covered the foundation—let’s get into the actual products. Here’s the good news: you don’t need a 10-step routine! Just three products can deliver 80% of the benefits to your skin. These are the essential skincare steps that everyone, no matter their skin type, should follow.
1. Cleanser: The First Step to Clear Skin
A good cleanser is the backbone of your skincare routine. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, cleansing twice a day (morning and night) is a must. It removes dirt, oil, and impurities that build up throughout the day and night, keeping your pores clear.
Here’s how to choose the right cleanser for your skin type:
- Oily Skin: Look for a foaming cleanser with ingredients like salicylic acid or niacinamide. These help control oil without over-drying your skin.
- Dry Skin: Use a non-foaming cleanser with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or glycerin. These ingredients will cleanse your skin while adding moisture.
- Combination Skin: Go for a gentle, non-foaming cleanser that balances oil production while keeping dry areas hydrated.
💡 Natural Option: If you’re into natural skincare, plain water can work as a cleanser for some people. Just splash your face and massage as if you were using a cleanser.
2. Moisturizer: Hydration is Key
Next up, moisturizer. This step is crucial, even if you have oily skin. Moisturizers lock in hydration and help maintain your skin’s barrier, protecting it from environmental damage and irritation.
Here’s what to look for in a moisturizer based on your skin type:
- Oily Skin: Look for lightweight moisturizers that contain hyaluronic acid, salicylic acid, or niacinamide. These ingredients balance oil production and hydrate without clogging pores.
- Dry Skin: Go for richer moisturizers with ingredients like ceramides, shea butter, aloe vera, and glycerin. These will deeply hydrate and repair your skin’s barrier.
- Combination Skin: Look for a moisturizer with a mix of exfoliating and hydrating ingredients like lactic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin C to keep both oily and dry areas in check.
💡 Natural Option: For those who prefer a natural routine, aloe vera or even beef tallow can be excellent alternatives. Beef tallow is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K, and its composition closely resembles the skin’s natural oils, making it a great natural moisturizer.
3. Sunscreen: Protect Your Skin Every Day
No matter your skin type, sunscreen is a non-negotiable part of any routine. The sun’s UV rays are the number one cause of premature aging, wrinkles, and dark spots—not to mention the increased risk of skin cancer. 🧴
When choosing a sunscreen, opt for a mineral sunscreen that contains ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These provide broad-spectrum protection without the harsh chemicals found in some sunscreens. Apply sunscreen every morning as the final step in your routine, even if it’s cloudy outside!
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re worried about looking pale, try a tinted sunscreen to avoid the white cast. This is especially helpful for those with darker skin tones.
Bonus Products: Exfoliants & Serums (Optional)
Once you’ve nailed the basics, you can add extra products like exfoliants and serums to give your skin an extra boost. These aren’t essential, but they can help improve texture, tone, and hydration.
- Exfoliants: Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, lactic acid, or retinol remove dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin. Just be careful to introduce these products slowly to avoid irritation.
- Serums: Hydrating serums with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide add extra moisture and help target specific skin concerns like dullness or uneven texture.
Conclusion: Less is More in Skincare
At the end of the day, the best skincare routine is the one you can stick to. Consistency is key, and you don’t need to overwhelm yourself with a ton of products. Stick to the basics—cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen—and focus on healthy lifestyle habits like diet, sleep, and hygiene. Your glowing skin in 2024 will thank you!
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments below!
FAQ
How do I know my skin type?
Your skin type generally falls into one of these categories:
Oily Skin: Your skin looks shiny and feels greasy, especially in the T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin).
Dry Skin: Your skin feels tight, flaky, or rough.
Combination Skin: You have oily areas (typically the T-zone) and dry areas (cheeks).
Normal Skin: Your skin feels balanced, with no significant issues of oiliness or dryness.
To find your skin type, wash your face with water and wait for an hour. Then, check for shine or dryness.
Is sunscreen really necessary if I’m indoors or it’s cloudy?
Yes! Sunscreen should be worn daily, even if you’re indoors or it’s cloudy. UV rays can penetrate through windows and clouds, leading to skin damage and premature aging. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum SPF as the final step of your morning skincare routine.
How often should I exfoliate my skin?
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells, but it’s important not to overdo it. For most people, exfoliating 2–3 times per week is sufficient. If you’re using a chemical exfoliant (like glycolic or salicylic acid), start slow—once or twice a week—and build up as needed.
Can I use the same moisturizer for day and night?
Yes, you can use the same moisturizer for both day and night, but it’s important to consider any active ingredients in the product. If your moisturizer contains retinol or strong exfoliating acids, it’s best to save it for nighttime use as these can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
How does my diet affect my skin?
Your diet plays a significant role in the appearance of your skin. Foods high in processed sugars, unhealthy fats, and refined carbs can lead to inflammation, breakouts, and dullness. On the other hand, a diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and healthy fats supports clear, glowing skin. Staying hydrated is also crucial for skin health.
Should I still moisturize if I have oily skin?
Absolutely! Oily skin still needs moisture. Skipping moisturizer can actually make your skin produce even more oil to compensate. Opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.
What’s the difference between chemical and physical exfoliants?
Chemical exfoliants use acids like glycolic or salicylic acid to dissolve dead skin cells without physical scrubbing.
Physical exfoliants use grains or scrubs to manually remove dead skin cells.
Chemical exfoliants are generally gentler and more effective for most skin types, while physical exfoliants can be harsh and cause micro-tears in the skin if used too aggressively.
When should I apply my skincare products?
For a basic routine, follow this order:
Cleanser: Morning and night to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.
Moisturizer: After cleansing, to lock in moisture.
Sunscreen: Apply every morning as the final step in your routine to protect against UV damage.
If you use serums or exfoliants, apply them after cleansing and before moisturizing.
How long will it take to see results from a new skincare routine?
Patience is key in skincare. It can take 4–6 weeks (or longer) to start seeing noticeable improvements, especially with treatments for acne, hyperpigmentation, or anti-aging. Consistency is crucial, so stick with your routine and make adjustments as needed.
Are expensive skincare products better?
Not necessarily! Many affordable skincare products work just as well, if not better, than high-end brands. Focus on products with proven ingredients for your skin type, regardless of price. Some of the most effective skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and salicylic acid are available in affordable drugstore options.
Should I adjust my skincare routine as I age?
Yes, as your skin ages, it produces less collagen and loses elasticity, so you may need to adjust your routine. Look for anti-aging ingredients like retinol, peptides, and antioxidants (such as vitamin C) to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Is natural skincare better for my skin?
Natural skincare can work well for some people, but it’s important to remember that “natural” doesn’t automatically mean “better” or “safer.” Some natural ingredients, like essential oils, can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always test new products and focus on what works best for your unique skin type.
Can I skip the cleanser in the morning?
If you have dry or sensitive skin, you can skip cleansing in the morning and simply rinse your face with water or use a hydrating toner. For oily or combination skin, it’s best to cleanse both in the morning and evening to prevent excess oil and clogged pores.
What should I do if I experience a reaction to a new product?
If your skin reacts negatively to a new product (e.g., redness, itching, or breakouts), stop using it immediately. Give your skin time to heal and avoid introducing new products during this period. If the reaction persists, consult a dermatologist to determine the cause.