Affordable At-Home Mini Facial (Drugstore Spa Edition)
There’s nothing like a professional facial, but sometimes life gets busy or your schedule doesn’t line up. While this routine will never replace the benefits of an in-spa treatment, it’s a fantastic way to give your skin a little TLC between visits — and it’s all affordable, thanks to drugstore favorites I actually recommend as a licensed Master Esthetician!
Here’s how to create a cozy at-home facial that feels like a mini spa night (pajamas and tea highly encouraged).
Step 1: Cleanser
Start with a clean canvas. I love the Naturium Niacinamide Cleansing Gelée 3% Plus Hyaluronic Acid & Vitamin C because it’s gentle, smoothing, and packed with brightening and hydrating ingredients. It’s perfect for melting away the day without leaving your skin feeling tight or stripped.
Tip: Take a full 60 seconds to massage your cleanser in — it boosts circulation and feels surprisingly therapeutic.
Step 2: Toner
A toner preps your skin for everything that comes next. The BYOMA Hydrating Milky Toner is a favorite of mine because it’s super hydrating and helps calm any redness. It gives that soft, dewy finish that feels like you’ve already done something fancy.
Step 3: Exfoliation
This is the game-changer. Exfoliation removes dull, dead skin cells and helps your mask and serums penetrate better. My top pick is the Naturium AHA Exfoliating Mask 10% — a gentle yet effective resurfacing treatment with glycolic and lactic acids. Leave it on for 5–10 minutes, rinse, and enjoy that instant glow.
Step 4: Hydrating Mask
Bring in the hydration! The Patchology Serve Chilled Rosé Facial Sheet Mask is a quick, luxurious-feeling option that delivers a hit of hyaluronic acid. It smells subtly like rosé, which just makes the whole experience feel a little more special.
Extra treat: Pop on a pair of under-eye patches or use a lip scrub while the sheet mask does its work.
Step 5: Finish with Moisture
Seal everything in with your go-to serum and moisturizer. Gently press the products into your skin instead of rubbing. If you want a little extra glow, finish with a few drops of facial oil.
Why This Matters
I truly believe some drugstore products can work beautifully — skincare doesn’t always have to be expensive to be effective. If you’re ever unsure about what to choose, you can always message me with questions. Of course, mixing in professional facials and high-quality professional products will give your skin the very best results, but I always want to create options for all budgets and skin types!
🌼 Affiliate Note:
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase (at no extra cost to you). I only share products I personally use, love, or recommend to clients in my spa studio. Your support helps keep Bee Well Living going — thank you! 💛