If you’re anything like me, once you hit your 30s your skin starts acting… different.
Like, one day it’s thriving and the next it’s like “Why did you put that on me???”
You’re not imagining it—your skin is changing. And yes, it’s annoying.
What used to work might suddenly feel too harsh, too drying, or just not it anymore.
As someone who’s really into skin barrier health (but not into 14-step routines or skincare gatekeeping), I’ve been keeping things simple, affordable, and gentle. Especially since my skin can be sensitive and dramatic at times—relatable.
So here it is: my current go-to skincare routine at 35.
It’s calm, it works and it’s budget friendly!
Let’s get into it:
🧼 Cleanse – Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
A no-rinse, ultra-gentle micellar water that removes makeup and sunscreen without stripping your skin.
It’s been a staple in my routine for years—especially when I’m too tired for a whole production.
Tip: I like to finish with a damp cotton round just to make sure everything’s gone (because ✨control✨).
💧 Moisturize – Vanicream Daily Facial Moisturizer
This stuff is like a hug for sensitive skin.
Fragrance-free, no-nonsense, packed with hyaluronic acid and ceramides to keep things calm, hydrated, and not overreacting. Best part is you can buy a bigger bottle of this and use it for the whole family!
✨ Treat – Vanicream Vitamin C Serum
If your skin gets fussy with actives—this one’s for you.
It brightens, evens tone, and gives that healthy glow without making your face mad.
Sensitive skin approved and budget-friendly? YES PLEASE!
☀️ Protect – iUNIK Centella Calming Daily Sunscreen SPF 50+
Lightweight, non-greasy, and full of calming ingredients like centella asiatica.
Wears well under makeup and doesn’t leave a weird white cast. This is the sunscreen that finally got me to wear sunscreen consistently. * Also if you use this you can skip your moisturizer.
🧴 Soothe – Tower 28 SOS Spray
If my skin is freaking out, this is what I reach for.
Redness, irritation, breakouts, “what even is this?” kind of days—this spray handles it. I keep a bottle in my purse, and bathroom. I need to get one for my bedside table for those slept in my makeup kind of mornings.. I use this on my self, my hubby and now my 15 year old. I LOVEEE this product and if you are a facial client of mine you know this is my fav.
🧖♀️ Clarify – Sanitas Tea Tree Mask (2–3x a week)
A gentle clarifying mask that doesn’t leave your skin feeling like the desert.
I use it when hormonal breakouts pop up or when I’ve been wearing makeup too many days in a row.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a million steps to get your skin to glow—you just need the right ones.
Gentle, effective products that support your skin without making it work overtime.
If your skin is feeling fussy lately, maybe this is your sign to simplify.
And if you’ve got questions or want to geek out over ingredients, drop a comment or DM me. I’m always down to talk skincare ( I am an esthetician after all 😆 ).
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you shop through them—at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my caffeine habit and blog dreams. ☕️💻💖
