A Complete $100 Routine for Any Skin Type

Since I started this blog, I’ve gotten lots of messages from friends and family asking for product recommendations, and while I’m more than happy to share all the info I have (that’s why I do this in the first place) I’m a hardcore believer that unless you have a complete skincare routine, trying to target one area for improvement is a losing battle. It’s like trying to do sit-ups so you can lose weight just in your belly.

It just doesn’t work that way.

But I know that starting a skincare routine can seem overwhelming. I’ve also had folks tell me that they just can’t invest in a full-scale routine.

I decided to challenge that assumption. I’ve put together a complete skincare routine, suitable for all skin types, for under $100. And you can get every item on this list from Amazon.

Oil Cleanser: Banila Clean It Zero

At this price point, this is my favorite oil cleanser. If you’re not sure why I’m recommending an oil cleanser, check out my post on double cleansing for a primer on this very important skincare step.

Water-Soluble Cleanser: CeraVe Foaming Cleanser

With ceramides (which promote a healthy moisture barrier) and hyaluronic acid (which helps attract moisture to the skin) this is a classic, non-stripping cleanser that is suitable for pretty much everyone. Fragrance free.

Hydrating Toner: Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Toner

Before I found this toner, I was 100% convinced toners were nonsense. But unlike the astringent toners of our teenaged pasts, Korean hydrating toners are a comfortable addition to any routine, as they add hydration and soften the skin, enabling the skin to absorb any following treatments even better. Fragrance free.

Honorable mention: Loads of people also love the Hada Labo lotion with hyaluronic acid. This is another great option; I just prefer the Klairs. But they are both excellent.

Skin Repairing Serum: Dr. Jart’s Ceramidin Liquid

Of all the serums I’ve used, this is the only one I unreservedly come back to. It can heal damaged skin and can help skin from being damaged in the first place. If you use actives (such as alpha hydroxy or beta hydroxy acids, vitamin C or any retinoid) there’s always the possibility of incurring skin irritation; that’s the nature of the beast. When that happens, this stuff is your best friend. Honest. Fragrance free.

Honorable mention: I adore the Klairs Rich Moist Soothing serum. I opted for the ceramidin liquid here because I think it offers a more diversified portfolio. But the Klairs serum is another solid choice at this price point.

Moisturizer: Klairs Rich Moist Soothing Cream

This wonderful formula looks and feel rich and creamy without being greasy on the skin. And because it’s another Klairs product, it works really well with the toner mentioned above. Fragrance free.

Sunscreen: Biore Aqua Rich Watery Essence

This non-greasy sunscreen leaves no white cast an absorbs quickly so it can easily wear under makeup. Plus, with an SPF of 50 and a PA rating of ++++, it blocks about 98% of UVA/UVB rays, making a great choice for both indoors and outdoors.

And there you have it! All the basics you need for hydrating, moisturized skin that can stand the test of time. All for a hundred bucks and all from Amazon. Taking care of your skin could not be easier.