Skincare essentials for your back-to-school or back-to-work routine

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As summer winds down and school/work is starting again, it’s the perfect time to reassess and refresh your skincare routine. The transition from a more relaxed schedule to the busier pace of fall can be tough on your skin. Whether you’re returning to a classroom or an office: having a streamlined, quick and effective skincare routine will help you maintain a healthy, glowing complexion, whilst enjoying your sleep in the morning for as long as possible.

Start with a gentle cleanser

The foundation of any great skincare routine is a good cleanser. As you get back into the groove, start your day by washing away the oil, sweat, and impurities that build up overnight. Opt for a gentle water-based cleanser that cleanses without stripping your skin of its natural oils, such as the Abib Acne Heartleaf Foam Cleanser Heartleaf or the Geek and Gorgeous Jelly Joker. A gentle formula ensures your skin stays balanced, fresh, and ready to absorb the next steps in your routine.

Streamline with a serum of your specific choice or an all-in-one serum

Mornings can be hectic, especially when you're adjusting to a new schedule. That’s where a serum that targets your specific concern comes in handy. Look for a serum that combines multiple benefits—like hydration, brightening, and anti-aging—into one easy step, such as the Numbuzin Skin Softening Serum or the aPad by Geek & Gorgeous.

Never skip sunscreen

Sunscreen is non-negotiable, regardless of the season. As you head back to school or work, make sure you’re applying a broad-spectrum SPF every single day. Even if you're mostly indoors, your skin is still exposed to harmful UV rays which can accelerate aging and cause long-term damage. A lightweight, non-greasy sunscreen will protect your skin without clogging pores or feeling heavy under makeup. Running short on time in the mornings? Save a step by using a sunscreen with moisturizing properties, so you can skip the moisturizer and still keep your skin hydrated. Our personal recommendations would be the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics or Altruist Dermatologist SPF 50.


A back-to-school or back-to-work routine is all about efficiency and effectiveness. With the right products—a gentle cleanser, a powerful serum to target your specific concern, and a reliable sunscreen—you can keep your skin looking and feeling its best, no matter how low on time you are in the busy mornings!

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