DIY Facial & Skincare Routine: Simple & Affordable

Let’s talk skincare...because taking care of your skin shouldn’t feel overwhelming or cost a fortune.

Some people swear by luxury skincare, while others find affordable products that work just as well. And honestly? Both are valid. Skincare is personal, and what matters most is finding what works for you, not the price tag.

I personally believe that good skincare doesn’t have to break the bank. A $100 moisturizer might be amazing, but that doesn’t mean a $20 one won’t do the job just as well. At the end of the day, it’s about consistency, not cost.

One tool that’s been a game-changer for me when choosing skincare and beauty products is YUKA.

Why I Love Using YUKA

If you’ve ever stared at an ingredient list on a skincare product and thought, “What even is this?”, you’re not alone. That’s where YUKA comes in.

YUKA is a free app that scans product barcodes and instantly tells you whether they’re good for your skin and health. It rates products based on ingredient quality and safety, flagging harmful additives, allergens, and irritants.

• Scans cosmetics & food products to rate their safety and quality.

• Gives a clear breakdown of ingredients, what’s good and what’s not.

• Suggests healthier alternatives if a product doesn’t score well.

I personally use it for skincare, makeup, and even grocery shopping to make sure I’m choosing non-toxic, high-quality products for myself and my family. It takes the guesswork out of shopping and helps me feel more confident in what I’m putting on my skin.

Step-by-Step Daily Skincare Routine (Less Than 10 Minutes!)

Morning Routine 

Cleanser – Start with a gentle cleanser to remove oil and prep your skin.

➜ Try: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (for dry skin) or Cetaphil Face Wash (for sensitive, combination to oily skin).

Toner – Hydrates and balances the skin. I personally love rice-based toners!

➜ Try: I’m From Rice Toner – lightweight, hydrating, and brightens dull skin.

Eye Cream – Because mom life = tired eyes. Helps with hydration and fine lines.

➜ Try: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum – lightweight and perfect under makeup.

Moisturizer – Hydration is key for glowing skin! No need for anything fancy.

➜ Try: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream – a bit on the thicker side but super moisturizing. 

Sunscreen (Non-Negotiable!) – The best anti-aging product is SPF.

➜ Try: Beauty of Joseon Daily Relief Sunscreen or Round Lab – lightweight, no white cast, and perfect under makeup.

Night Routine 

Cleanser – Start with a gentle cleanser to remove oil and prep your skin.

➜ Try: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (for dry skin) or Cetaphil Face Wash​ (for sensitive, combination to oily skin).

Toner – Hydrates and balances the skin. I personally love rice-based toners!

➜ Try: I’m From Rice Toner – lightweight, hydrating, and brightens dull skin.

Rice Serum – Helps with hydration and skin texture.

➜ Try: Beauty of Joseon Glow Deep Serum Rice

Eye Cream – Because mom life = tired eyes. Helps with hydration and fine lines.

➜ Try: Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum – lightweight and perfect under makeup.

Moisturizer – Hydration is key for glowing skin! No need for anything fancy.

➜ Try: Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream – a bit on the thicker side but super moisturizing. 

Weekly Skincare Routine: Glow-Up Days 

Once or twice a week, treat your skin with a little extra self-care. These take more time but make a huge difference in keeping your skin fresh and radiant.

1. Exfoliate (1-2x a week)

• Removes dead skin cells and helps other products absorb better.

➜ Try: SKIN FOOD Black Sugar Mask Wash Off or I'm from Rice Mask (for gentle, effective exfoliation)

I do this during shower. Saves me time. 

2. Clay Mask (1x a week)

• Helps with clogged pores and detoxifies skin.

➜ Try: NENA Natural Face Wash for Dry Skin

3. Hydrating Mask (1-2x a week)

• Gives an instant boost of hydration.

➜ Try: I'm from Rice Sheet Mask or BIODANCE Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask

Skincare is About What Works for YOU

At the end of the day, skincare is self-care and self-care should never feel stressful, complicated, or like a competition. Whether your routine is budget-friendly or high-end, the most important thing is that it makes you feel good in your skin.

And if you ever feel overwhelmed with ingredient lists and product claims, download YUKA, it’s like having a skincare expert in your pocket.

So stick to what works, enjoy the process, and remember: you don’t need to spend a fortune to glow, you just need a routine that loves your skin back!