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Skincare Routine for Moms Who Have Zero Time

Being a mom is a full-time job, and between juggling kids, work, and daily chores, finding time for yourself often feels impossible. However, self-care is vital, and that includes taking care of your skin. Luckily, achieving healthy, glowing skin doesn’t have to be a time-consuming ordeal. With the right steps, you can build a simple, effective skincare routine in just minutes a day. Here’s a guide to a no-fuss, mom-friendly skincare regimen.

MOM'S SELF-CARE

1/20/20253 min read

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Step 1: Cleanse (Morning & Night)

Cleansing your skin is the foundation of any good skincare routine. It helps remove dirt, oil, and makeup, leaving your skin fresh and ready for the next steps. Look for a gentle, hydrating cleanser that suits your skin type.

How to Use: Apply a small amount to your damp face, massage gently, and rinse off with lukewarm water. This step takes less than a minute!

Time-Saving Tip: Keep your cleanser in the shower for a quick morning wash or a nighttime cleanse.

Try our favorites:

CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Hydrating Gentle Cleanser

Step 2: Hydrate and Prep (Morning)

After cleansing, it’s important to prep your skin for the day with a hydrating toner or essence. These products can help balance your skin and provide an extra layer of moisture.

How to Use: Pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and swipe it across your face and neck. This step takes about 30 seconds.

Quick Tip: Choose a toner with calming ingredients like aloe vera or rose water for added benefits.

Try our favorites:

Thayers Alcohol-Free Witch Hazel Toner (Lavender or Rose Petal)

Cosrx Hydrium Watery Toner

Step 3: Treat with a Serum (Morning & Night)

Serums deliver powerful ingredients directly into your skin. Opt for one that targets your main skincare concerns, such as dullness, fine lines, or uneven skin tone.

How to Use: Apply 2-3 drops to your face and gently pat it in. It absorbs quickly, making it ideal for busy mornings or evenings.

Mom Hack: Combine your serum with sunscreen in the morning for extra protection against environmental stressors.

Try our favorites:

TruSkin Vitamin C Serum

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

Step 4: Moisturize (Morning & Night)

Moisturizing is essential for locking in hydration and keeping your skin barrier healthy. Choose a lightweight moisturizer for daytime and a richer one for nighttime, depending on your needs.

How to Use: Scoop out a small amount and massage it onto your face and neck. You’ll be done in 30 seconds.

Bonus: Look for a moisturizer that layers well under makeup or sunscreen.

Try our favorites:


Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream

Step 5: Sunscreen (Morning)

Sunscreen is the most important step in your morning skincare routine to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is ideal.

How to Use: Apply a pea-sized amount evenly across your face and neck after your moisturizer.

Quick Tip: Keep a travel-size sunscreen in your bag for reapplication throughout the day.

Try our favorites:

EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40

Step 6: Nighttime Treatment (Optional)

If you have an extra minute at night, consider using a treatment product to address specific concerns like fine lines or uneven skin texture. Retinol creams or other treatments can work wonders over time.

How to Use: Apply a small amount after cleansing and before moisturizing. Use it 2-3 times a week to start.

Caution: Always follow up with sunscreen the next morning when using treatments like retinol.

Try our favorites:

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

Bonus Step: Eye Care (Optional)

Eye care products can help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines around the delicate eye area.

How to Use: Dab a tiny amount under your eyes with your ring finger. This step takes less than 15 seconds.

Try our favorites:

Baebody Eye Gel

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado

Time-Saving Skincare Tips for Busy Moms

  • Multitask: Apply a sheet mask while helping your kids with homework or watching TV.

  • Set Up a Skincare Station: Keep all your products in one place for easy access. Use a small basket or organizer to store your essentials.

  • Use Multipurpose Products: Opt for products that serve dual purposes, like tinted moisturizers with SPF or cleansing balms that also remove makeup.

Bonus product:

FaceTory Everyday Sheet Masks

Why You Should Prioritize Skincare

As a busy mom, it’s easy to put your needs on the back burner. However, taking a few minutes a day for your skin can:

  • Boost your confidence.

  • Help you feel refreshed and energized.

  • Prevent premature aging and other skin concerns.

Building a consistent skincare routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. A few minutes each day is all it takes to achieve glowing, healthy skin—because busy moms like you deserve to feel beautiful too!