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If you have acne-prone and sensitive skin, you know how frustrating skincare can be. I’ve learned the hard way that trying too many products — or using the wrong ones — can lead to irritation, dryness, or breakouts.
In the morning, I keep my routine super simple. Since I use retinol at night, I focus on gentle cleansing and moisturizing to keep my skin calm, balanced, and hydrated. These are the two products I consistently reach for: Cetaphil Daily Cleanser and Philosophy Hope in a Jar.
My Simple Morning Routine (2 Steps)
If my skin is acting up or feeling sensitive, I don’t overcomplicate things. In the morning I keep it simple and consistent — just cleansing and moisturizing.
Step 1: Gentle Cleanser — Cetaphil Daily Cleanser
Why I use it:
Cetaphil has been one of the few cleansers that doesn’t leave my skin feeling tight or dry. It removes oil and leftover product from the night before without irritating my skin.
What I love about it:
• Gentle enough for everyday use
• Doesn’t strip my skin
• Helps keep my skin feeling clean but not dry
Why it works: Cetaphil Daily Cleanser is known for being gentle and non-stripping, helping cleanse the skin without disrupting the moisture barrier. It’s fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin, which makes it a reliable option for daily use.
Step 2: Moisturizer — Philosophy Hope in a Jar
After cleansing, I go right into moisturizing. Since I use retinol at night, I really need hydration in the morning to keep my skin balanced and smooth.
What I love about it:
• Hydrates without feeling heavy
• Leaves my skin smooth + soft
• Layers nicely under makeup
• A little goes a long way, so the jar lasts a long time
Why it works: Its lightweight, hydrating formula helps keep skin comfortable and balanced, which is especially important when using active products like retinol at night.
Philosophy also makes a Hope in a Jar version with SPF. I personally haven’t tried it yet, but it’s definitely on my list to try next.
A Quick Note About SPF
I know SPF is important — especially when you use retinol. I’m still trying to find a dedicated sunscreen that works for my acne-prone, sensitive skin and doesn’t cause irritation or breakouts.
For now, I use Rodan + Fields Radiant Defense every day. It’s my go-to tinted moisturizer and honestly my version of “concealer” because I don’t use one. It also has SPF 30, but I personally still feel better using additional SPF when I can.
Why I love it: Radiant Defense works as a tinted moisturizer and light makeup in one step, making it an easy everyday option when I want coverage without a full makeup routine.
Why I Keep My Morning Routine So Simple
I’ve found that my skin does best when I don’t overload it with too many products. A gentle cleanser + a moisturizer I trust keeps my skin calm, hydrated, and less prone to breakouts.
Final Thoughts
If you’re acne-prone and sensitive like me, I hope this routine helps give you a simple starting point. I’ll keep updating as I try new products that work for my skin (especially a good SPF!).
You can also read my full review of my two favorite moisturizers here.