I used to be that person who’d fall into bed with a full face of makeup after a long day, thinking a quick splash of water in the morning would magically fix everything. Sound familiar? The truth is, achieving good skin doesn’t have to feel like a part-time job. If you’re someone who values simplicity but still wants that healthy glow, you’re in the right place.

Let’s get real—most of us don’t have the time or energy for a 10-step skincare routine. The good news? You don’t need one. By focusing on a few key steps and making them work for your lifestyle, you can build a routine that’s effective without being overwhelming. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly which products to prioritize, how to streamline your regimen, and why skipping complicated routines might actually be better for your skin.

Start with a gentle cleanser that does the heavy lifting

Cleansing is non-negotiable, but that doesn’t mean you need to scrub your face raw. Harsh cleansers can strip your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness or even breakouts. Instead, opt for a gentle, hydrating formula—think cream or gel-based cleansers that remove makeup and impurities without leaving your skin tight or irritated. Micellar water is another lazy-girl staple; just soak a cotton pad and swipe it across your face when you’re too tired for a full wash. One of my friends swears by Bioderma Sensibio H2O for nights when even standing at the sink feels like a chore. The key is consistency: even on your busiest days, taking two minutes to cleanse can make a world of difference.

Hydration is your skin’s best friend

If you do nothing else, moisturize. Dry skin can look dull and feel uncomfortable, but a good moisturizer locks in hydration and supports your skin barrier. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides, which help attract and retain moisture. I keep a simple, fragrance-free moisturizer on my nightstand so I can apply it right before bed—no excuses. A common mistake? Using heavy creams that clog pores. If you have oily or combination skin, gel-based moisturizers are a game-changer; they’re lightweight but still pack a hydrating punch.

Never underestimate the power of sunscreen

Sunscreen is the ultimate lazy-girl hack for preventing premature aging and protecting against UV damage. You don’t need a separate product if it feels like too much effort—many moisturizers and foundations now include SPF. Aim for at least SPF 30 and apply it every morning, even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors. I tested a dozen drugstore sunscreens and landed on La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk because it doesn’t leave a white cast or feel greasy. Skipping sunscreen might seem harmless, but consistent use is one of the easiest ways to maintain healthy skin long-term.

Incorporate multitasking products

Who says you need a cabinet full of serums and toners? Multitasking products can simplify your routine while delivering results. A vitamin C serum, for example, can brighten your complexion, fight free radicals, and even out skin tone—all in one step. Another favorite? A hydrating face mist that you can spritz throughout the day for a quick refresh. I’ve found that using a tinted moisturizer with SPF saves me time in the morning, combining coverage, hydration, and sun protection. The goal is to minimize steps without sacrificing benefits.

Listen to your skin and adjust as needed

Your skin’s needs can change with the seasons, stress levels, or even your diet. Pay attention to how it feels—if it’s looking red or breaking out, it might be telling you to scale back. Sometimes, less is more. I used to overload my skin with active ingredients, only to end up with irritation. Now, I stick to a basic routine and introduce new products one at a time. If you’re dealing with specific issues like acne or sensitivity, spot-treat instead of slathering on every product you own. A simple routine tailored to your skin’s current state is far more effective than a complicated one.

Embrace the lazy-girl philosophy: consistency over complexity

Good skin isn’t about how many products you use; it’s about using the right ones consistently. Building a habit takes time, but once you find a routine that works for you, it becomes second nature. Don’t beat yourself up for skipping a step here and there—what matters is showing up most of the time. I’ve seen the biggest improvements in my skin when I stopped chasing trends and focused on a few trusted products. Remember, the goal is to feel confident in your skin, not to perfect it.

At the end of the day, skincare should enhance your life, not complicate it. By prioritizing cleansing, hydration, and sun protection, and leaning into multitasking products, you’re setting yourself up for success without the overwhelm. Start with one change today—maybe swapping your harsh cleanser for a gentle one or committing to daily sunscreen—and build from there. Your future self will thank you.

For more easy skincare tips or product recommendations, follow along on my blog or social media. Here’s to glowing skin with minimal effort!