Simple Morning Skincare Routine
*this post contains affiliate links. I make a small commission when you purchase from my links at no additional cost to you!
I know mornings can be crazy between getting kids ready for school and getting yourself out the door. One thing that is always a non-negotiable for me is my skincare. Your morning routine doesn’t have to be complex or time-consuming — it can be done in as little as 5 minutes. Mama, you’re worth 5 minutes (truthfully, more than that!).
The Easy Morning Routine for Glowing Skin
You don’t need a 10-step skincare routine to see results. Just a few smart, targeted products can transform your skin and give you that fresh, healthy glow.
My own routine has a couple of extra steps because I live in a very dry, high-altitude climate. The air here zaps hydration from the skin, so I need those extra layers of moisture to keep my skin balanced. But don’t worry — you can adjust this routine to fit your skin’s needs.
My Morning Routine
Here’s what my routine looks like:
Cleanse with water – A quick rinse is often all you need in the morning. It refreshes the skin without stripping away natural oils. If you prefer a gentle cleanser, try this gentle hydrating cleanser.
Vitamin C Serum – This is my secret weapon for bright, even-toned skin.
👉 My go-to is a Hydroxytyrosol + Vitamin C Serum. It delivers double the antioxidant power to brighten, soften lines and give you that glow!Anti-Aging Serum with Paracress – Paracress is like a natural alternative to injections (I can’t say the name ;)). It helps soften the appearance of fine lines and gives the skin a smoother, firmer look. I have an entire blog post about the benefits.
Hyaluronic Acid + Arbequina Oil Serum – This combo is a hydration powerhouse. Hyaluronic acid plumps the skin with moisture, while Arbequina oil locks it in and adds antioxidant protection. I combine this hyaluronic serum with a few drops of arbequina oil. If you live in a humid, warm climate you can skip this step!
Moisturizer – Choose one that supports your skin type, whether you need extra hydration, barrier repair, or a lightweight finish. I rotate between a rich cream in the winter and a lighter gel moisturizer in the summer. This moisturizer is my absolute FAVORITE and it’s amazing for all skin types! If you want something lighter I would go for this moisturizer.
SPF (30+) – The absolute non-negotiable. Sunscreen protects against sun damage, premature aging, and helps prevent dark spots. Think of it as your skin’s best insurance policy.
Why I Use Hydroxytyrosol Based Skincare
Hydroxytyrosol is a powerful antioxidant derived from olives, and it’s one of the most effective ingredients I’ve found for protecting skin from the signs of aging. It’s been shown to fight free radicals (those little culprits that speed up aging), brighten the complexion, and calm redness. Unlike some antioxidants that can be harsh, hydroxytyrosol is gentle yet incredibly effective. Making it a perfect choice for everyday use! My skin totally TRANSFORMED when I switched to hydroxytyrosol based skincare. I will never use anything else on my skin (coming from a veteran esthetician who’s worked in med spas)!
If you’ve never tried hydroxytyrosol before, I recommend starting with these. I’ve compiled a list of my favorite anti-aging products!
Benefits of Hydroxytyrosol in Anti-aging Skincare
Protects against sun damage – Helps shield skin from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure.
Boosts radiance – Encourages a brighter, more even skin tone.
Supports collagen production – Keeps skin looking plump and youthful.
Soothes sensitivity – Gentle enough for stressed or reactive skin.
When paired with Vitamin C, hydroxytyrosol becomes even more powerful. Together, they help fade dark spots, improve skin elasticity, and give you that coveted healthy glow.