8 Steps To The Most Luxurious At Home Facial

If you’re anything like me, a trip to the spa sounds like a dream—but between busy schedules and, let’s be honest, the price tag, it’s not always doable. That’s why I swear by an at home facial! Not only do they save money, but they also give you full control over the products you use (because let’s face it, not all facials are created equal).

So if you’re craving the luxury of a post-facial glow but don’t feel like splurging at a spa, I’ve got you covered.

Grab your comfiest robe, favorite headband (hello Kitsch), light a candle, and let’s dive into the ultimate DIY at home facial routine that will leave your skin glowing, refreshed and feeling amazing.

Step 1 | Cleanse (twice)

Let’s start with the basics—clean skin! The key to getting the most out of every step of your facial is to begin with a fresh slate. Cleansing is the foundation of any good facial, and a double cleanse is always the starting point.

How to double cleanse properly:

1. Start with an oil-based cleanser (SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Cleansing Oil does not disappoint) to break down makeup, sunscreen, and any grime from the day. Apply a little on to your fingers and massage gently into dry skin.

2. Wet your fingertips and massage again—this emulsifies the oil, making it easier to remove. Than Rinse off.

3. Now, go in with a gentle, sulphate-free water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities without stripping your skin.

Step 2 | Exfoliate

Exfoliation is key to getting that fresh, radiant skin. It helps remove dead skin cells and allows products to absorb better. According to skincare specialists, chemical exfoliants can penetrate deeper into the pores, making them more effective for long-term clarity.

How to exfoliate like a pro:

1. Choose between a physical exfoliator like Tatcha The Rice Polish, a luxurious, gentle exfoliator that leaves skin soft and glowing or a chemical exfoliator (AHAs or BHAs) like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant which is a cult favorite that unclogs pores and smooths skin.

2. If using a scrub, be gentle—no harsh scrubbing! Massage in light circular motions, then rinse.

3. If using a chemical exfoliant, apply it with a cotton pad and let it sit for a few minutes.

4. Avoid over-exfoliating—once or twice a week is enough to reveal fresh, glowing skin.

Step 3 | Steam

Now that your skin is freshly exfoliated, it’s time for one of the most relaxing steps—steaming! If you have an at home facial steamer, like (my absolute favorite) the Dr. Dennis Gross Pro Facial Steamer, now’s the time to use it.

Steaming not only feels dreamy, it helps to open pores loosening impurities and trapped dirt, boost circulation by increasing blood flow to skin (hello natural glow), and deeply hydrates by bringing moisture to the skin.

Step 4 | Apply a Mask

Now that your pores are cleansed and open, it’s the perfect time to go in with a face mask that’s tailored to your skin’s needs.

• For oily/acne-prone skin: Use a clay mask like Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask to absorb excess oil or Beauty Of Joseon Ground Rice And Honey Glow Mask to control breakouts.
• For dry skin: Use a hydrating mask or a sheet mask with ingredients like hyaluronic acid.
• For dull skin: Try a brightening mask infused with vitamin C like the Tatcha Violet-C Radiance Mask.

Which ever mask you decide on, leave it on for 10-20 minutes (or according to its instructions), rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry. Personally I always dry with a disposable face cloth to ensure as little bacteria transfer on my skin as possible.

Step 5 | Apply Serum – for maximum benefits

Serums are where the real magic happens. These lightweight, potent formulas are packed with high concentrations of active ingredients designed to penetrate deeper into your skin than a regular moisturizer.

Whether you’re tackling fine lines, dullness, dark spots, or dehydration, serums deliver targeted treatment to address your unique skin concerns.

Apply a few drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly on to your face and gently rub it into your skin. Wait about a minute before moving on to the next step to let the active ingredients fully absorb.

Currently I swear by the Good Molecules serums, they really are my skins savour!

Step 6 | Moisturize – lock it all in

Moisturizing is the final and most essential step to lock in all the hydration and nutrients your skin has just absorbed. Without a proper moisturizer, all the hard work you’ve put into your facial could go to waste, as hydration can quickly evaporate from your skin.

A good moisturizer helps maintain your skin’s barrier, keeps it supple, and ensures long-lasting softness and glow.

Apply a small amount all over your face and neck. Opt for a lightweight cream like Youth To The People Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream if you have oily skin, or a richer cream like Beauty Of Joseon Dynasty Cream if you have dry skin.

Step 7 | Eye cream and Lip balm

A good facial addresses your whole face, so your under-eyes and lips need love too! These delicate areas are often the first to show signs of dryness and aging, so giving them extra care is essential.

Apply a nourishing eye cream to help reduce puffiness, dark circles, and fine lines, and a hydrating lip balm (Melixir Vegan Lip Butter is a staple in my routine) to keep your lips soft, smooth, and plump.

Step 8 | Facial Massage (optional but so worth it)

If you really want to elevate your facial, a little facial massage not only feels absolutely amazing, but it also does wonders for your skin.

It helps increase circulation, promotes lymphatic drainage, and can leave you with a naturally de-puffed, radiant complexion. Plus, it’s a great way to relieve tension and give yourself that sculpted, lifted look.

If you prefer using your fingers, go for it! But this is also the perfect excuse to bring out a jade roller or a gua sha tool. Pair it with a nourishing facial oil for an extra luxurious touch—think of it as a topcoat for your moisturizer that locks everything in while giving your skin that final boost of glow.

How to do a facial massage:

• Use your fingers or chosen tool and gently glide it along your jawline, cheekbones, and forehead.
• Always move upwards to lift the skin.

The bottom line

And that’s it—your luxurious at home facial is complete! Your skin should feel refreshed, hydrated, and glowing. With the right products and steps you can replicate your very own spa-worthy facial just like a pro. Try doing this full facial once a week for the best results.

More in skincare

• 4 must-have skincare tools that completely transformed my skin
• Is your skin begging for a detox? Here’s how to hit the reset button
• 15 essential skincare practices for healthy glowing skin
• Pro layering: How to order your skincare products the right way

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