My 11-Step At-Home Facial Routine.

The following post contains affiliate links, which sends me a small percentage of any sales at no cost to you.

I have been on quite the skin journey since the pandemic began. I was using my extra time to rummage through my stash of skincare products and, well, some of them messed up my skin, but some of them cleaned it up.

I am still dedicated to trying all sorts of new products that make sense for my skin. But, a little more than a month ago, I really wanted to book a facial. I felt like I’d tried all the over-the-counter products I could, and I needed a boost.

But, I’ve really been trying to stick to my budget. Getting a spa facial and splurging on products likely wasn’t the best idea for my wallet right now.

Then I realized that I probably had all the tools and products to give myself a facial. I went to Pinterest to get ideas. From there, I put together a list of steps to give myself an at-home facial that’s got to be almost as good as one at a spa!

Here are my steps and products:

Step 1: Steam

This is the step that really makes things feel like a spa! Steam gets the pores open and makes each product more effective, so it’s essential.

I have used the Vanity Planet facial steamer for a few years and I love it! I fill it to the max line with water, which gives you 15 minutes of steam. If I’m feeling really luxurious, I’ll fill it again and do another 30 minutes!

Step 2: Double cleanse

Next, it’s time to cleanse the skin. Use your favorite cleansers, but I’d recommend doing an oil or a balm first, then a gel or cream cleanser.

I use the Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil first, and then use the Kiehl’s Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash.

Step 3: Extract

Next, you’ll want to extract any blackheads or junk that doesn’t belong! You may not need this step, or it may vary from facial to facial.

During the first at-home facial, I used an extracting tool (I use the one from Tweezerman), but in the facials I’ve done since, I use a good nose strip.

Step 4: Exfoliate or peel

This is the step that really changes each time for me, depending on what my skin needs. I mix it up between using a chemical peel product (I use the Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate – Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment), my Michael Todd Beauty Sonic Microdermabrasion set, or a topical exfoliant such as the Dermologica Exfoliant.

Step 5: Tone

Now it’s time to start calming the skin! My top two toners are the Fresh Rose Deep Hydration toner and the SKIN&CO Roma Truffle Therapy Essential Face Toner.

Step 6: Mask

Now it’s time to mask! Choose a mask that addresses your current skincare issues, whether it’s antiaging or dehydration. I’m still trying to fight acne, so I use clarifying masks.

I switch between the Cocokind Sea Kale Clay mask and the TonyMOLY Green Tea mask sheet.

You can make this step really feel like a spa by using a brush to apply your mask and adding some synthetic cucumber slices to your eyes (or actual cucumber slices if you’re prepared!).

Step 7: Apply Serums

This is another step where you can directly address any skin issues. I usually use the Cocokind Postbiotic Acne Serum or a vitamin c serum.

Step 8: Eye cream

Next, apply your favorite eye cream. I have been using (and loving) the Give Them Lala Bags Be Gone eye cream.

Step 9: Face oil

Next, face oil. I know this all seems like a lot, but your skin is going to look amazing when you wake up! I have been using the Juice Beauty Organic Treatment Oil and the Pholk Beauty Night Oil.

Step 10: Moisturize

I cheat a little on this step and apply an overnight mask instead of a moisturizer. I use the Fresh Floral Recovery Calming Mask. But, if you’re looking for a good moisturizer, the Philosophy Renewed Hope in a Jar is a favorite.

Step 11: Lip treatment

When I’d get facials at a spa, this was one of my favorite parts! Give yourself a finishing step by using a nice balm or a lip mask. Bump up the experience by applying it with a lip brush. I use the Give Them Lala Coconut Kisses Lip Mask.

…And then you’re done! It’s a lot of steps but I do this facial every week (usually on Thursday nights), and it gives me an excuse to really have time for myself.

I bring a chair into my bathroom, set up my iPad for a show or queue up a podcast, and get to it. I’ll usually have a glass of wine or make some lemon water, if I’m really feeling fancy.

Plus, this has really helped my skin!

Do you do some sort of at-home facial? I’d love to hear your routine and favorite products!

This beauty post is not sponsored — nor are any of the posts on this blog. I am a beauty and skincare junkie and enjoy sharing the products I love right here! For more reviews and similar posts, please subscribe to the blog by clicking subscribe on the right side of your screen. Cheers!