This post was reviewed and updated by Sarah Otto, Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Otto Skin Goods on April 30, 2026.
Spring always motivates me to reduce and refresh. I’ve already been cleaning my home for the past few weeks, purging and eliminating unnecessary toys, clothing and anything else I can get my hands on.
Now that I’ve reached the bathroom, I figured it was a great time to give it a little TLC, and keep it that way. In addition to scrubbing and bleaching, it’s time to tackle my skincare routine—and I thought I'd share some ways you can, too.
How to Purge Expired Products
First things first, get rid of any expired products collecting dust on your shelves. Also, don’t be afraid to toss never-been-used creams and serums. This is also a good time to clean brushes and tools you use on your skin. Next, update eye and lip colors with fresh, in-season options. No need to commit right away—you can purchase a sample first to make sure you like it before buying the full size.
Overall, the main focus of this purge is to eliminate steps in your routine you no longer find necessary. For example, I never use toner or moisturizer. Instead, I simply use a face oil. Which reminds me: invest in serums. They’re a great way to get more bang for your buck, because they’re packed with high percentages of active ingredients. Not to mention, their light, gel-like texture absorbs quickly and efficiently. They also target many skin issues with just one quick step.
How to Reduce Your Skincare Routine
Start by reducing your routine to only the essentials. I know it’s tempting to jump on the latest trend, face mask or super serum, but it’s way more important to consider your skin’s actual needs over what’s trending.
Before you buy more skincare products, ask yourself this question first: are you dehydrated, sun-damaged or acne-prone? You should be solely focusing on the active, plant-based ingredients that will treat your major skin issues. Here’s a quick guide to keep it simple (as a good rule of thumb, avoid layering more than three products on your skin at a time):
- Dehydration: Look for products with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, plant oils (like marula or avocado) and antioxidants
- Sun Damage: Look for products with vitamin C, bearberry extract, AHAs, rosehip seed oil and antioxidants
- Acne: Look for products with niacinamide, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, fruit acids, gluconolactone, retinol and sulfur
- Fine Lines/Wrinkles: Look for products with vitamin C, AHAs, retinol, peptides and antioxidants
Add SPF to Your Skincare Routine
Longer days mean more daylight, so you’ll need to start thinking about improving your skin protection. Make sure you’re using a tinted moisturizer with at least SPF 15, daily. Another non-negotiable? If you’re going to be out in direct sunlight, slather on some SPF 30. If you’re worried you’ll miss out on a tan, try a mild self-tanner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my skincare products are expired?
Most products have a small open-jar symbol on the packaging with a number inside (e.g., "12M"), indicating how many months the product is good for after opening. When in doubt, check for changes in smell, texture, or color. These are all signs it's time to toss it.
How often should I clean my makeup brushes and tools?
A good rule of thumb is to clean brushes used around your eyes and lips at least once a week, and other face tools every one to two weeks. Regular cleaning helps prevent bacteria buildup that can lead to breakouts and irritation.
How many products should I use in my skincare routine?
Try to avoid layering more than three products on your skin at a time. Focus on the essentials that address your specific skin concerns—whether that's dehydration, sun damage, acne, or fine lines—rather than chasing every new trend.
Why should I invest in serums?
Serums are packed with high concentrations of active ingredients, making them one of the most efficient steps in any routine. Their lightweight, gel-like texture absorbs quickly and can address multiple skin concerns in a single step.
What SPF should I be wearing daily?
At minimum, use a tinted moisturizer with SPF 15 every day. If you'll be spending time in direct sunlight, bump that up to SPF 30. If you're worried about missing out on a tan, a mild self-tanner is a great alternative.
Do I really need toner and moisturizer?
Not necessarily; it depends on your skin's needs. Some people find they can simplify their routine by swapping heavy moisturizers for a face oil, and skipping toner altogether. The goal is to eliminate steps that aren't delivering real results for your skin.
