a concise guide to three liz earle staples I use every day to cleanse, hydrate and nourish the skin without overwhelming it
A beauty editor who’s tried more formulas than most of us have toiletries in our bathrooms shares a refreshingly simple three-step routine designed to show real improvement without drama. The logic is tidy: protect the skin barrier, restore lost moisture, then seal everything in with a serum-like moisturiser.
Focusing on comfort, hydration and pleasant texture makes this an easy regimen to stick with day after day.
What the routine looks like
– Cleanse: a gentle gel that lifts away dirt and light makeup without leaving skin tight. – Hydrate: a lightweight tonic that replenishes water and soothes any irritation.
– Lock in: a concentrated “serum‑in‑moisturiser” that delivers targeted hydration and a smoothing finish.
Repeat these three steps morning and night. The editor picked three Liz Earle products to keep the sequence predictable and purposeful—each one has a clear job, so you aren’t second‑guessing what to use next.
Why less is often better
Complicated regimens can sound impressive, but they’re harder to maintain and easier to get wrong. Fewer steps mean fewer opportunities to irritate the skin and a much higher chance you’ll actually use the products consistently. In practice, routines that prioritise barrier support and hydration tend to be better tolerated and more reliably improve texture and tone over time. Plus, applying a hydrating layer before a richer moisturiser helps that final product absorb and perform more effectively.
The three go‑to products (and what they do)
1) Cleanse & Glow Transforming Gel Cleanser A feather‑light, non‑foaming gel that removes daily grime and light makeup while preserving the skin’s natural moisture. It cleans without that uncomfortable tightness, which makes it a sensible pick for sensitive and dry‑leaning skin. In short: a gentle, everyday cleanser that sets the stage.
2) Instant Boost Skin Tonic Think of this as a hydration primer. A quick mist or a few dabs of tonic reintroduce moisture after cleansing, calm surface redness, and smooth the skin so subsequent creams and serums glide on more evenly. Use it as an all‑over mist for a dewy lift or on a cotton pad to target rougher patches.
3) Superskin Advanced Firming Serum‑in‑Moisturiser A hybrid that marries concentrated actives with barrier‑friendly emollients. It feels surprisingly light, gives a subtle plumping sensation and refines texture without heaviness. Because it combines targeted ingredients with moisturising components, it can deliver benefits while keeping the irritation risk lower than layering multiple potent serums.
Evidence and everyday experience
Scientific studies back the broad idea here: maintaining a healthy barrier, restoring hydration early in the routine, and choosing tolerable formulations all help reduce transepidermal water loss and minimise irritation. Large randomized trials remain the gold standard, but observational research and real‑world user feedback often point to better outcomes when routines are simple, consistent and focused on hydration.
Who this works for
This trio is especially appealing to anyone craving low‑effort skincare—people with sensitive, combination or normal skin, and anyone who hates spending ages in front of the mirror. It works morning and night, plays nicely under makeup, and can also be worn alone for a fresh, dewy finish. If you want, add a targeted eye treatment and always finish with sunscreen in the daytime.
Practical tips
– Cleanser: use a small amount, massage gently, rinse with lukewarm water. – Tonic: mist from a little distance or sweep with a cotton pad; a light layer is enough. – Serum‑in‑moisturiser: press into the skin and give it a minute to absorb before applying makeup.
What the routine looks like
– Cleanse: a gentle gel that lifts away dirt and light makeup without leaving skin tight. – Hydrate: a lightweight tonic that replenishes water and soothes any irritation. – Lock in: a concentrated “serum‑in‑moisturiser” that delivers targeted hydration and a smoothing finish.0
