7 Best Skincare Routine for 2024

Building the Perfect Skincare Routine

Achieving flawless skin starts with the perfect skincare routine. Cleansing, toning, treating, moisturizing, and sun protection are all important steps to consider. Dermatologists recommend specific tips for each step to ensure maximum effectiveness.

Importance of Cleansing, Toning, Treating, Moisturizing, and Sun Protection

Cleansing your skin removes dirt, oil, and other unwanted debris. Throughout the day, the skin on your face is continually covered with bacteria, pollutants, viruses, dirt, and old (dead) skin cells.

Daily facial washing removes these impurities to give the skin a fresh look. Without cleansing, your skin would be covered with a thick layer of dirt and grime, which make it difficult for other products to penetrate the skin properly.

Toning helps remove any residues left behind after cleansing, as well as restore the pH balance of your skin, which can be disrupted during cleansing due to alkaline soap or cleansers.

It also prepares your pores to receive all of the benefits of serums, eye creams, and moisturizers that you apply after toning.

Treating your skin goes deeper than just cleaning its surface — this step involves using serums that directly target specific concerns like wrinkles or dark spots. The active ingredients in treatments are meant to help repair damage at a cellular level, and they’re often more potent than what you’ll find in cleaners or moisturizers.

Moisturizing hydrates and softens the skin, which may seem superficial, but it’s actually essential—it’s what keeps our largest organ functioning properly! People with oily or acne-prone skin might think they should skip this step, but everyone needs moisture: without it, our glands pump out even more oils, leading to breakouts.

Sun protection shields against harmful UV rays that cause premature aging and increase risks of cancer; wearing sunscreen every single day is imperative regardless of whether it’s sunny outside or not—a crucial advice unanimously echoed by dermatologists worldwide.

By safeguarding yourself daily with SPF, you’re investing long-term in maintaining a healthy, youthful-looking complexion well into later years.

Tips from Dermatologists

Protect your skin from the sun every single day. Dermatologists stress that sunscreen is a must-have in your best skincare routine, no matter the weather or season. It shields your skin from harmful UV rays and prevents premature aging.

Make sure to choose a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it throughout the day if you’re spending time outdoors.

Tailor your skincare products to suit your age and skin type for optimal results. A personalized approach means selecting cleansers, serums, and moisturizers that are formulated for issues like oily skin, dryness, acne, or sensitivity.

As you age, consider incorporating retinol into your night regimen to help reduce fine lines and enhance skin texture.

With these expert insights on building a robust skincare routine at hand, let’s dive into some top-rated skincare sets available today.

The Best Skincare Routine Sets to Buy Now

e.l.f. SKIN Hydrated Ever After Skincare Mini Kit

Highlights

• Hydrates and moisturizes all skin types
• Nourishes and softens the skin
• Includes cream, serum, balm, and drop for complete skincare
• Unscented formula suitable for sensitive skin
• Compact mini kit for on-the-go skincare routine
• Manufactured by e.l.f. Cosmetics

The e.l.f. SKIN Hydrated Ever After Skincare Mini Kit is like a hydration hero for your face, perfect for both men and women seeking to maintain their skin’s health on the go. With TSA-friendly sizes, this kit slips easily into any bag or suitcase, ensuring that you can stick to your skincare regimen no matter where life takes you. The infusion of powerhouse ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides work in harmony to plump, nourish, and protect your skin — it’s as if you’re giving your face a refreshing drink of water with each use.

Every item in the kit serves an essential role; for instance, after a long day when you need to wipe away makeup and environmental pollutants, the Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm does so effortlessly without stripping your skin of moisture. Follow up with the Daily Cleanser and Face Cream for a supple finish that keeps dryness at bay. Those extra tired eyes? Pamper them with the Eye Cream included in this comprehensive set.

We’ve selected e.l.f.’s mini skincare kit as our number one pick because it doesn’t just promise; it delivers real results without breaking the bank or compromising on quality. It stands out by offering something everyone needs – effective everyday hydration — wrapped up in pocket-sized convenience that respects animal well-being (hello leaping bunny certification!). Whether your days are spent rushing between meetings or chasing adventure across time zones, these minis ensure that dewy complexion remains within reach.

Pros

• e.l.f. SKIN Hydrated Ever After Skincare Mini Kit is infused with hyaluronic acid to deeply hydrate and plump the skin
• The travel-friendly sizes make it convenient for on-the-go hydration wherever you are
• This skincare regimen is formulated with skin-loving ingredients that are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and Leaping-Bunny certified
• The kit provides a complete hydration regimen, including a daily cleanser, makeup remover, moisturizer, and eye cream for a refreshed complexion

Cons

• Some may find the travel-friendly sizes too small for home use
• The presence of essential oils in some products might cause sensitivity
• People with specific allergies should check the ingredient list thoroughly before using the products

The e.l.f. SKIN Hydrated Ever After Skincare Mini Kit is perfect for the busy, on-the-go person who wants a complete hydration regimen without compromising on quality or price. Say goodbye to dry and dull skin with this travel-friendly kit that will leave your complexion feeling refreshed and nourished.

The Ordinary The Balance Set

Highlights

• Suitable for all skin types
• Includes a cleanser and moisturizer
• One-and-done starter skincare set
• Great for gifting

The Ordinary’s The Balance Set is a game-changer for anyone aiming to upgrade their daily skincare routine. Tailored to tackle common skin concerns, this set emerges as our number two pick due to its combination of efficacy and simplicity. With the Squalane Cleanser, you can expect a soft and moisturized face after every wash, stripping away the day’s grime without harshness. Salicylic Acid 2% Masque dives deep into pores, smoothing out uneven skin tones while whisking away dead cells.

Men and women both find that incorporating niacinamide 10% + zinc helps control shine throughout the day—ideal for those battling with an oily T-zone. This serum also works wonders in reducing pore size over time—a small but mighty bottle indeed! To lock in moisture without feeling heavy or greasy, Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA seals the deal superbly well. Users rave about how these four products work cohesively to maintain a balanced complexion that radiates health.

Choosing The Ordinary The Balance Set means opting for visible results without complication. Each product within this quartet stands strong alone, yet when used together, they synergize to deliver a truly transformative experience—without breaking the bank or overwhelming your bathroom counter with products. Whether it’s morning prep or nighttime repair, these essentials foster resilient skin that looks as good as it feels.

Pros

• Enhances skin radiance
• Reduces textural irregularities
• Minimizes the appearance of enlarged pores
• Balances visible shine

Cons

• It may cause dryness for some skin types
• The salicylic acid masque may tingle or feel uncomfortable on sensitive skin
• The Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% may not suit all skin types

This set is perfect for anyone looking to balance their skin and achieve a radiant, clear complexion. Whether you have enlarged pores or struggle with shine, The Ordinary’s Balance Set has everything you need for the best skincare routine.

MARLOWE. Men’s Skin Care Set

Highlights

• Made in the USA with high-quality ingredients
• Specifically designed for men’s skincare needs
• Suitable for all skin types
• Includes a variety of face products in a convenient set
• Formulated with MARLOWE. M BLEND to nourish and protect the skin
• Compact packaging perfect for travel or everyday use

The MARLOWE. Men’s Skin Care Set stands out as a top grooming ally, securing the No. 3 spot on our list for its thoughtful combination of essentials tailored to men’s daily needs. Dive into your morning ritual with the refreshing No. 121 Facial Cleanser that effectively wipes away dirt and oil without over-stripping skin. There’s no harsh drying here, just a squeaky clean that sets you up right for the day ahead.

After cleansing, tackle dryness with the ultra-hydrating No. 123 Facial Moisturizer – it’s like a drink of water for your face, leaving skin smooth and supple without any greasy residue. And because life doesn’t pause and neither should your skin protection, safeguarding against sun damage is effortless with the non-comedogenic MARLOWE.’s Daily Face Lotion SPF 50, an essential armor in maintaining a youthful appearance sans harmful chemicals or pore-clogging fears.

For those late nights turned early mornings, turn back time with the hard-working No. 127 Eye Cream that targets tired eyes by reducing puffiness and diminishing dark circles — because whether you’re presenting in boardrooms or hitting downtown scenes after hours, looking sharp shouldn’t be compromised by lackluster eyes.

Pros

• Protects skin from sun damage with SPF 50 daily face lotion
• Reduces puffiness and dark circles with renewing under-eye cream
• Hydrates and refreshes facial skin with non-comedogenic moisturizer
• Cleanses effectively to get rid of oil and impurities for a fresh face

Cons

• Eye cream may not be suitable for sensitive skin
• Some men may find the moisturizer too light for very dry skin
• Price point may be higher compared to other men’s skincare sets

For the busy, on-the-go man who values high-quality products and wants to elevate his skincare routine, MARLOWE. Men’s Skin Care Set is the perfect choice. Made in the USA with no harsh chemicals, this set includes everything he needs for a complete daily skincare routine.

e.l.f. Skin Hit Kit, Infused with Hemp Seed Oil

Highlights

• Infused with hemp seed oil for added skin nourishment
• Contains hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and plump skin
• Convenient oil form for easy application
• Enriched with the pleasant scent of shea butter
• Compact dimensions for portability
• Made by e.l.f. Cosmetics, a trusted brand

Dive into the world of deluxe skincare with e.l.f. Skin Hit Kit, a treasure trove infused with Hemp Seed Oil that promises to elevate your daily regimen. This 4-piece set delivers a potent blend of Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, and squalene – ingredients celebrated for their hydrating and nourishing properties. Imagine starting your day by massaging the Puff Puff Primer onto your face. Its ultra-creamy texture makes it the perfect canvas for makeup or stands alone as a soothing moisturizer to calm any skin type.

The magic continues with All The Feels Facial Oil, designed to absorb without greasiness while fortifying your skin’s natural defenses against dryness and aging environmental stressors. For men and women alike who seek a burst of hydration minus heavy residue, this lightweight oil is a game-changer. Then there’s Happy Hydration Cream – think of it as enveloping your complexion in a cloud of weightless moisture that lasts all day long. Each product amplifies e.l.f.’s commitment to vegan, cruelty-free beauty that respects both your skin and nature’s creatures. Round off this refreshing experience using Calm Balm on lips for an understated yet radiant shine that feels as good as it looks – ensuring every inch of your face receives VIP treatment.

Pros

• Ultra-creamy face primer absorbs quickly to soothe, hydrate, and condition skin
• Nourishing lip balm delivers a healthy, natural-looking shine
• Lightweight, non-greasy facial oil improves moisture and elasticity with effective hydration
• Rich, buttery face moisturizer infused with Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide locks in lasting hydration

Cons

• Not suitable for those with hemp seed oil allergies
• Some may find the face oil to be too lightweight for their skin type
• The rich and creamy texture of the moisturizer might feel heavy on oily or acne-prone skin

Whether you’re a skincare novice or a self-proclaimed beauty guru, the e.l.f. Skin Hit Kit infused with Hemp Seed Oil is perfect for anyone looking to nourish and hydrate their skin. Try it now and elevate your skincare routine to new levels of indulgence.

I Dew Care Skincare Set

Highlights

• Suitable for all skin types: dry, normal, combination
• Moisturizing and brightening benefits
• Includes 3 different skincare products: serum, butter, cream
• Infused with vitamin C for a radiant glow
• From the trusted brand I Dew Care
• Compact size ideal for travel or on-the-go use

Discover the I Dew Care Skincare Set, your new ally for a radiant complexion that doesn’t compromise on fun or effectiveness. This Korean skincare trio understands the demands of maintaining healthy skin amidst our busy lives. The Vitamin To Glow Pack is designed to seamlessly fit into both his and her routines with travel-friendly sizes perfect for on-the-go care.

Championing premium ingredients like a 7% vitamin C derivative, the Bright Side Up serum is engineered to enhance your skin’s natural glow. In comparison, Say You Dew moisturizer relies on 2% niacinamide to even out skin tone without causing dryness. For those craving soft, kiss-ready lips, Plush Party offers up its cocoa butter richness paired with hibiscus flower extract and vitamin C — ensuring your lips are just as pampered as your face.

Users rave about the visible improvements in their skin’s brightness and texture after incorporating these gems into their daily rituals. The thoughtful formulation of TSA-friendly sizes means you can enjoy refreshed and hydrated skin, whether at home or jet-setting across time zones. With I Dew Care Skincare Set, achieving a luminous moisturized look becomes an effortless part of any skincare regimen for both men and women looking to shine in their true light every day.

Pros

• 7% vitamin C derivative to improve skin’s radiance
• 2% niacinamide to even skin tone and illuminate skin without dryness
• Cocoa butter rich in antioxidants to promote lip suppleness
• Vitamin C-rich product trio – travel-sized serum, moisturizer, and lip mask

Cons

• Lip mask may not be suitable for those sensitive to cocoa butter or hibiscus flower extract
• Not the best value as it comes in a travel-friendly size

The ideal customer for the I Dew Care Skincare Set is someone who values a fun and effective skincare routine. This triple set, enriched with vitamin C and other nourishing ingredients, is perfect for those looking to brighten and moisturize their skin on-the-go.

Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set

Highlights

• Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set includes a collection of four skincare essentials
• Designed to cleanse, polish, and nourish the skin for a radiant complexion
• Set features the iconic Pure One Step Camellia Cleansing Oil and The Rice Polish
• Contains The Essence, which is a liquid treatment that plumps skin with hydration.
• This set also has The Water Cream, an oil-free moisturizer that gives skin nutrient-rich hydration
• Each product in this set is formulated with pure, clean ingredients inspired by ancient Japanese beauty rituals

Embark on a gentle journey to radiant skin with Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set. This curated collection of skincare essentials is tailored for sensitive skin, harnessing the power of natural Japanese ingredients that have been beloved for centuries. Each product in the set works harmoniously to cleanse, soften, and hydrate your skin without causing irritation or discomfort.

Imagine starting your day with the luxurious Camellia Cleansing Oil, melting away impurities, followed by The Rice Polish calming exfoliator, revealing baby-soft skin. After cleansing, The Essence plumps up your complexion with nourishing superfoods, while The Silk Cream moisturizes deeply with its lightweight but powerful formula. Guys and girls alike will appreciate how this ritual set simplifies their daily routine while elevating it to spa-like heights of pampering and effectiveness.

Tatcha’s commitment to purity means no harsh chemicals are touching your face, only soothing botanicals that respect your skin’s sensitivity. Whether you’re prepping for a busy day or unwinding at night, this starter kit not only offers visible results but also turns basic skincare into an indulgent experience. Give yourself the gift of balanced, luminous skin courtesy of Tatcha The Starter Ritual Set – where elegance meets simplicity in every application.

Pros

• Gently cleanses and hydrates sensitive skin
• Reduces redness and irritation
• Restores balance and nourishment to the skin
• Improves overall skin texture and appearance

Cons

• Some may find the price of the set to be on the higher side
• There could potentially be some sensitivity towards specific ingredients in the products

This set is perfect for anyone with sensitive skin looking for a gentle yet effective skincare routine. Add a touch of luxe to your regimon with this premium-pick set, and watch your skin reap the rewards.

Retinol Anti-Aging Starter Kit

Highlights

• Essential starter kit for combating signs of aging
• Formulated with potent retinol to diminish wrinkles and fine lines
• Includes a gentle cleanser, anti-wrinkle serum, and moisturizing day cream
• Targets uneven skin tone and texture for a smoother complexion
• Ideal for individuals looking to start an effective anti-aging skincare routine
• Conveniently packaged in travel-friendly sizes

Dive into a transformative skin experience with the Retinol Anti-Aging Starter Kit, where proven results meet user-friendly packaging. This kit is your pocket-sized partner in combating signs of aging, offering everything you need to cleanse, treat, repair, and hydrate your skin while on the move or exploring its benefits for the first time. Skincare specialists since 1987 have crafted these clinically tested formulas to match pricier brands’ effectiveness without breaking the bank.

Experience softer, more youthful-looking skin as this curated collection harnesses retinol’s age-defying powers—each product is meticulously chosen to provide noticeable outcomes without any guesswork. The cleanser gently washes away impurities, followed by potent treatment serums that address fine lines and wrinkles head-on; a nourishing repair cream revitalizes damaged skin overnight; and finally, an ultra-hydrating moisturizer locks in essential moisture. All are contained in mini sizes perfect for travel convenience or sampling new regimens.

Men and women alike will appreciate how these top selections streamline their skincare routine, with each step packed full of high-quality retinol’s rejuvenating properties. Whether you’re facing early signs of aging or looking to maintain supple skin on-the-go, this starter kit delivers consistent care with every use—the kickstart toward achieving a radiant complexion that anyone can incorporate seamlessly into daily life.

Pros

• Conveniently sized products for travel or first-time use
• Clinically proven as effective as more expensive brands
• Ideal for on-the-go anti-aging skincare routine
• Perfect introduction to the benefits of the original Retinol skincare line

Cons

• Somemay experience mild irritation or redness when first using retinol products.
• The smaller sizes may not last long
• The starter kit does not include sunscreen, which is important to use alongside retinol products

The Retinol Anti-Aging Starter Kit is perfect for the busy, on-the-go person who wants to achieve younger-looking skin without sacrificing results. Discover the power of Retinol and elevate your skincare regimen with this curated collection.

FAQs

Q: What is the best skincare routine for dry skin?

A: For dry skin, it’s essential to use gentle, hydrating cleansers, followed by a rich moisturizer and a nourishing serum. Look for products that contain hyaluronic acid and ceramides to help restore and maintain the skin’s moisture barrier.

Q: How can I create a morning skincare routine?

A: A basic morning skincare routine involves cleansing, applying a lightweight moisturizer, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30. You can add serums or treatments based on your skin type and concerns.

Q: What are the best skincare products for oily skin?

A: For oily skin, oil-free and non-comedogenic products are best. Look for a gentle, foaming cleanser, lightweight gel moisturizer, and products containing salicylic acid or retinol to help control excess oil and treat acne.

Q: What is the best order to apply skincare products?

A: In general, the correct order is to first cleanse, then apply any treatment products such as serums or acne medications, followed by moisturizer, and finally sunscreen during the day or a night cream at night.

Q: How can I build a nighttime skincare routine?

A: A nighttime skincare routine typically involves cleansing to remove makeup and impurities, followed by applying treatment products such as retinoids or antioxidants, and finishing with a heavier moisturizer to hydrate and repair the skin overnight.

Q: What should a skincare routine include for sensitive skin types?

A: It’s best to use fragrance-free and hypoallergenic products, including gentle, non-foaming cleansers, soothing moisturizers, and products with calming ingredients like chamomile or green tea extract. Patch-testing new products is also important for sensitive skin.

Q: What are the best skincare practices to keep your skin healthy?

A: Consistent use of sunscreen, regular cleansing and moisturizing, avoiding harsh scrubbing or over-exfoliating, and seeking professional advice from a board-certified dermatologist can help maintain healthy skin.

Q: How does a skin care routine differ for acne-prone skin?

A: For acne-prone skin, a skincare routine may include gentle, non-drying cleansers, exfoliating treatments containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, and non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizers to help manage breakouts and prevent new ones.

Q: What is the recommended morning skin care routine according to the American Academy of Dermatology?

A: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a morning routine that includes cleansing, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, and using a moisturizer suitable for your specific skin type.

Q: Why is it important to take care of your skin according to the American Academy of Dermatology?

A: The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes the importance of skincare to maintain overall skin health, prevent skin cancer, manage specific skin conditions, and address signs of aging, as well as to help maintain the skin’s barrier function and minimize the risk of developing skin-related problems.

Conclusion

Embrace the journey to radiant skin with these expert-approved skincare sets. The e.l.f. SKIN Hydrated Ever After Mini Kit delivers intense hydration in a travel-friendly package, perfect for maintaining a dewy glow on the move.

For balanced and refreshed skin, choose The Ordinary’s The Balance Set – it’s packed with essentials that keep your face clear and moisturized. Give your skin the daily love it deserves with these top-notch choices.

About the Author

Tanja is an advocate of all things clean-beauty. She's forever on the lookout for new and exciting products, whether they come from faraway Korea or the beauty labs of Paris.

Her favorite brand is Shiseido, a Japanese company who craft luxurious, high-end makeup in gorgeous packaging.

Why Trust Us

Since 2007, TotalBeauty has been committed to helping millions of people find the right makeup, skincare, and haircare products for their needs. Our experts know what works best for every face shape, skin type, hair type, and more. They are here to share that knowledge with everyone looking to upgrade their beauty routines or try something new.