Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned my skincare routine to keep my oily, acne-prone skin balanced and healthy. My current regimen includes retinoids, chemical peels, and a strong focus on hydration, which has really helped keep breakouts and excess oil under control. Now that my skin is in good condition, I’m looking for products that support hydration, provide some anti-aging benefits, and do not cause any reactions with the strong actives I already use. That’s why I was excited to try the new routine from Topical Skin—it seems to check all the boxes for what I need. I mainly wanted to see if these products could keep my skin plump and hydrated without disrupting what’s already working for me.
Hydrating Facial Cleanser
I start my routine with the Hydrating Facial Cleanser, and I have to say, it feels great every time. It’s creamy, doesn’t lather much, and cleanses everything without stripping my skin.
What I really liked is that it’s sulfate-free. I do admit, I sometimes use cleansers with sulfates, but going back to a gentler formula reminded me why sulfate-free is better for my skin. I feel like my skin is functioning better, staying balanced, and not getting as oily during the day.
Plus, the cleanser has ceramides and oleosomes (little oil droplets) from safflower seeds. That means it helps maintain the skin’s barrier strong. While I know a cleanser alone won’t fully rebuild that barrier, it’s reassuring to know that I’m using one that not only avoids harming it (as many cleansers do) but actively supports it. I also love the subtle, natural smell—it’s fragrance-free but doesn’t have that weird chemical scent some fragrance-free products do. It actually smells like fresh-picked flowers. Plus, a little goes a long way, which is a bonus for me.
Post-cleanse, my skin never feels tight or uncomfortable after using it, and I’ve noticed less oil buildup throughout the day. It’s become a solid part of my routine, and I like knowing it sets me up well for the rest of my skincare.
Age-Defying Serum
After cleansing, I apply the Age-Defying Peptide Serum. This serum is lightweight, absorbs fast, and doesn’t leave any stickiness behind, which is perfect for my oily skin. One thing I love is applying it while my skin is still damp. Since it’s water-based and contains humectants, it helps my complexion hold onto moisture better. It absorbs quickly and preps my skin perfectly for moisturizer.
The serum also has some serious active benefits. It’s got those types of peptides that soften the look of fine lines by relaxing facial muscles—basically, like a gentler version of Botox in a bottle. The mix of peptides and antioxidants (like Vitamins C and E) is designed to target fine lines, boost collagen production, and protect against environmental damage. Even small fine lines take time to tackle, and I wasn’t expecting quick fixes from this serum, but I could say I really liked how well it worked with my other treatments. Even when I used retinol the night before, this serum didn’t cause any irritation or reactions. I’ve been impressed by how gentle yet effective it feels—it’s a great way to add a bit of anti-aging power to your routine without overwhelming your skin.
Rejuvenating Moisturizer
Finally, the Rejuvenating Moisturizer (and my favorite part) is really great when it comes to hydration. I love how lightweight and fast-absorbing it is, yet it still delivers long-lasting moisture. It’s packed with niacinamide (Vitamin B3) — this guy doesn’t just regulate oil production; it communicates with the skin cells and tells them to calm down on the oil front. This means fewer clogged pores and a more balanced complexion. I’ve noticed that my complexion stays balanced throughout the day, and I haven’t had any midday shine or excessive oiliness, which is a huge plus.
Another standout ingredient in the formula is squalane, which mimics the skin’s natural oils but doesn’t clog pores or feel greasy. It’s lightweight and gives the skin a soft, smooth texture. Combined with humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid, this moisturizer draws moisture into the skin and locks it in. After using this for a few weeks, I’ve found that my skin feels plumper and more hydrated, even after harsher treatments like glycolic acid peels.
It also layers well under makeup, so I’ve been using it in the morning before applying my foundation. It provides a nice, smooth base and keeps my skin feeling hydrated all day. Even on days when my skin feels dry or irritated (thanks to the weather or stronger treatments), this moisturizer calms everything down and keeps me comfortable.
Although I haven’t used it this way, it’s also ideal for facial massage. Its viscous texture is perfect for supporting the movement of massage rollers, Gua sha tools, or even your hands across your face, without any tugging or dragging.
Results
While I’ve been using this routine for two months my skin felt consistently hydrated. I haven’t had any major breakouts, which is always a concern for me when introducing new products. The cleanser has helped keep my skin clean and comfortable without stripping it, the serum has added a layer of anti-aging benefits, and the moisturizer keeps everything hydrated without clogging pores or feeling heavy.
I wasn’t expecting any huge changes, especially since I’ve been on top of my skincare for so long. But these products slipped perfectly into my routine. They keep my skin balanced, help manage oil, and didn’t interfere with any of my stronger treatments. In fact, they actually helped my skin recover faster—even after something as intense as my 25% glycolic acid peel, which I use twice a week.
Would I Recommend This Routine?
I’d definitely recommend this routine to anyone, especially if you’re looking for something that’s hydrating, repairing, and still lightweight. The cleanser is gentle yet effective, the serum offers solid anti-aging benefits without being irritating, and the moisturizer is perfect for keeping skin plump and balanced. The ingredients—ceramides, peptides, niacinamide, and squalane—are backed by solid research and are known for their ability to strengthen, repair, and hydrate the skin. You can feel confident that you’re using ingredients that truly support your skin’s health.
If you’re someone who already has a routine but wants to add more hydration or anti-aging benefits, these products would be a great addition. And if you’re new to skincare and want to start with something gentle yet effective, this set would also be a solid choice. Just keep in mind that, like with any skincare, consistency is key, and it’s important to listen to your skin’s needs.
