By Anna Beck
I’ve worked in skincare for seven years, partnering with the brands I use and love. And the two things I hear most from fellow moms? …
“I don’t even wash my face.”
and
“I just don’t have time for skincare.”
And you know what? I get it. I’ve gone an entire day without washing my face, especially when my three kids were babies. Some mornings, brushing my teeth would feel like an Olympic-level win. When you’re juggling a newborn, snacks, school or daycare drop-off, work, toddler meltdowns, and everything in between, it’s easy to push yourself and your face to the bottom of the list.
But here’s what I’ve learned: Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It can be simple. Quick. And most importantly—it can be a tiny act of love toward yourself.
When I take care of my skin, I feel more confident, and it absolutely helps my mood for the day. We take care of everyone else around us, but we need to take care of ourselves, too. We only have one face, right?
✨Here are a few real-life skincare tips for moms who are short on time but still want to feel like themselves.
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Keep it simple. Seriously.
You don’t need a 10-step routine, especially if you don’t want one (some love it!). If you want or need a very basic routine: Cleanse, treat, moisturize—that’s enough. Be sure the products are jam-packed with good-for-you nutrients and clean ingredients.
Morning and night, use a gentle cleanser, a waterless serum packed with antioxidants, and then seal it all in with a nourishing face cream or facial oil. Three steps. Two minutes. Done! And always wash your face at night—no matter how tired you are. It clears away dirt, oil, makeup, and pollution from the day, keeping your skin fresh and breakout-free.
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Make it easy on yourself.
Skincare doesn’t have to be another chore—it can be a peaceful pause, something to look forward to, especially when life feels so rushed. Find a routine that fits into your busy life. I do a face mask most Sundays while my kids take a bath. It’s five quiet(ish) minutes where I can do something just for me.
I keep a face cleanser in the shower so I can get that step done while I’m already in there. I also put my serum and lotion by my toothbrush, so I always remember to do my routine while I am getting ready for the day or night.
Lately, my oldest has started watching me do my skincare. She asks questions and notices that I’m taking care of myself. That alone makes it worth it—I want her to grow up seeing that caring for yourself is normal and important.
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Give yourself grace.
Some nights, your “routine” is a face wash and lotion. That’s okay. Other nights, you’ll manage the full lineup with serums. The point isn’t perfection—it’s consistency. It’s doing something to remind yourself that you matter too.
So, here’s your reminder, mama: you don’t have to do it all to take care of yourself. You just have to start somewhere. You are worth it.
Need help finding quick, clean products that work for your life? Come say hi over at @urban.apron or www.urbanapronblog.com—I love helping other moms feel good in their skin!
