Hailey Bieber’s “glazed donut” skin has become one of the most talked-about beauty aesthetics of the past few years—and for good reason: her skincare emphasizes hydration, gentle exfoliation, and barrier support over complicated, multi-step routines, making it easier to stay consistent even with a busy schedule. The best part is you don’t need a celebrity budget to get a similar glow—focus on effective cleansing, steady hydration, and daily SPF, and consider a multifunctional product like an exfoliating daily cleanser to simplify your routine without sacrificing results. This guide breaks down what Hailey uses, why it works, and how to adapt the same principles whether you’re choosing Rhode or budget-friendly alternatives.
Key Takeaways
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Hailey Bieber's routine prioritizes hydration and barrier health over complex multi-step regimens
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Double cleansing with an oil cleanser followed by a gentle face wash forms the foundation of her evening routine
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The "glazed donut" look comes from layering hydrating products—not heavy makeup
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SPF is non-negotiable; Hailey considers it the most important anti-aging step she can take
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Affordable alternatives like Aquaphor (around $6-15) sit alongside premium products in her routine
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Gentle daily exfoliation with enzyme-based cleansers creates the smooth canvas needed for that signature glow
Unpacking Hailey Bieber's Approach to Glowing Skin
Hailey's skincare philosophy centers on one core principle: hydration first, everything else second. Her signature dewy complexion isn't about piling on products—it's about keeping the skin barrier healthy and well-moisturized at every step.
"If I'm not getting into bed looking like a glazed donut, I'm not doing the right thing," Hailey has said. This statement captures her entire approach. The goal isn't matte, "perfected" skin—it's skin that looks healthy, plump, and genuinely hydrated.
What makes her approach different:
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Focus on barrier function over aggressive treatments
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Layering lightweight hydrating products rather than one heavy cream
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Prioritizing prevention (SPF, antioxidants) over correction
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Keeping the routine simple enough to actually maintain daily
Her Vogue interview revealed an even more pared-down version of her routine, proving that effective skincare doesn't require a 10-step process.
Breaking Down the Core Steps of a Model Skincare Routine
Hailey's routine follows a logical order that maximizes the effectiveness of each product. Understanding this sequence helps you build your own routine around the same principles.
Morning Routine Steps
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Hydrating mist or essence — Provides an instant moisture boost
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Hydrating serum — Delivers active ingredients to the skin
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Moisturizer — Locks in hydration
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SPF — Protects against UV damage
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Minimal makeup — Usually just concealer and lip treatment
Evening Routine Steps
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Oil cleanser — Removes makeup and sunscreen
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Water-based cleanser — Clears remaining impurities
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Hydrating essence — Preps skin for treatment products
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Serum — Targets specific concerns
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Moisturizer — Seals in all previous steps
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Occlusive balm — Prevents overnight moisture loss
The complete AM/PM breakdown shows that even with all these steps, Hailey's routine prioritizes products that layer well together without feeling heavy or causing congestion.
The Importance of Effective Cleansing for Hailey Bieber-Inspired Radiance
Cleansing is where Hailey's routine either succeeds or fails. She's been vocal about how switching to oil cleansing changed her skin completely.
"I started oil cleansing during quarantine, and it has honestly made the biggest difference in my skin. So that's how I take my makeup off now. I don't do it any other way," she explained in an interview.
Her Preferred Cleansing Products
MARA Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil (around $58): This oil cleanser uses four fruit enzymes—papaya, pineapple, grapefruit, and pumpkin—along with spirulina and kelp for hydration. It transforms from oil to milk when mixed with water, lifting makeup and sunscreen without stripping the skin.
Rhode Pineapple Refresh Cleanser (around $30): Launched in January 2024, this cleanser uses pineapple enzyme for gentle natural exfoliation and polyglutamic acid for moisture retention. The balm-to-lather formula emulsifies with water. Hailey had been dreaming of this cleanser for years before the brand launched, making it one of her most personal creations.
What dermatologists say: "Hailey's double cleanse is great for dry skin like hers...I love that she uses a gentle cleanser and doesn't like her skin to feel stripped or dry. Perfect!" — Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, board-certified dermatologist.
Finding Your Own Cleansing Match
The key principles from Hailey's cleansing routine apply to any skin type:
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Remove makeup first with an oil or balm cleanser
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Follow with a gentle exfoliating cleanser that doesn't leave skin tight
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Look for enzyme-based formulas rather than harsh physical scrubs
If you're looking for a simplified approach, a daily cleanser for men that combines gentle exfoliation with hydration can eliminate the need for multiple cleansing steps while still delivering that clean, balanced feeling. Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser uses Triple Action Hydroxy Acids alongside Charged Hyaluronic Acid to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate in one step—similar to how Rhode's Pineapple Refresh Cleanser aims to simplify the cleansing process.
Achieving Hydration and Balance: Key to Hailey Bieber's 'Glazed Donut' Look
The "glazed donut" aesthetic is all about hydration layering. Hailey achieves this by stacking multiple lightweight hydrating products rather than relying on one heavy cream.
Rhode Glazing Milk
This essence/pre-serum hybrid is arguably Hailey's hero product. It contains a ceramide trio for barrier function, beta-glucan for hydration without stickiness, and magnesium, zinc, and copper for antioxidant protection.
"I use it in the morning, at night, as makeup prep...It's such a staple for me and I really could not live without it," Hailey told Vogue. The product won the 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award and holds the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance.
What makes it work:
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Milky texture absorbs instantly without residue
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Can be used as skincare prep, makeup primer, or foundation mixer
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Provides hydration without feeling heavy or greasy
Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
This gel serum delivers peptides for plumping, niacinamide for pore refinement, and hyaluronic acid plus marula oil for hydration.
"I absolutely love this Peptide Glazing Fluid. You can see it leaves such a dewy, glowy look on the skin. For me, hydration is always the focus at night," Hailey explained. She even uses it on top of makeup as a liquid highlighter for midday refresh.
Rhode Barrier Restore Cream
The moisturizer step features peptides for anti-aging benefits, squalane for barrier repair, and niacinamide. The formula is fragrance-free and designed for sensitive skin.
"It's very important to me to keep the barrier healthy and hydrated, so a great moisturizer is absolutely key for me," Hailey noted.
Building Your Own Hydration Stack
The principle behind Hailey's layering approach is simple: start with the thinnest consistency and work up to the thickest. Each layer should enhance—not disrupt—what came before.
For those seeking a simplified hydration approach, look for products that deliver multiple hydrating ingredients in one formula. Kipi's cleanser, for example, includes Charged Hyaluronic Acid and moisture-locking natural sugars, so your skin stays hydrated even during the cleansing step.
Exfoliation Secrets for Smoother Skin: Taking Cues from Hailey Bieber
Smooth skin texture is essential for achieving that glazed look. Hailey's approach to exfoliation is gentle but consistent—enzyme-based formulas rather than harsh scrubs.
Why Enzyme Exfoliation Works
Enzyme exfoliants (like the pineapple enzymes in Rhode's cleanser) break down dead skin cells without the microtears that physical scrubs can cause. This results in:
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Smoother texture without irritation
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Better product absorption for everything that follows
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Brighter complexion from removing dull surface cells
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Refined pores without over-stripping
The Rhode Pineapple Refresh was designed to be gentle enough to eliminate the need for double cleansing while still providing exfoliation benefits. One editor noted: "Skin feels balanced afterwards—soft and clean."
Chemical vs. Physical Exfoliation
Chemical exfoliants (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs, enzymes):
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Dissolve bonds between dead skin cells
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Work at the cellular level
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Generally gentler with consistent results
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Hailey's preferred method
Physical exfoliants (scrubs, brushes):
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Manually remove surface cells
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Can cause irritation if overused
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Risk of microtears with harsh particles
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Best used sparingly, if at all
For anyone with sensitive skin, following Hailey's lead with enzyme or mild acid-based exfoliation is the safer approach. Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser combines Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, Beta-Hydroxy Acids, and Polyhydroxy Acids at gentle concentrations, making it suitable for daily use without the harsh effects of physical scrubs.
Simplifying Your Skincare: Aligning with Hailey Bieber's Efficient Approach
Hailey's routine has become even more streamlined over time. Her Vogue feature revealed a simplified 8-step approach that prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing results.
The Newest Addition: Rhode Glazing Mist
"Sometimes when I'm really busy in the morning...I will literally just spray my face and I'll walk out the door," Hailey explained. The mist provides instant hydration and can be used over makeup for a midday refresh.
She also noted: "I love this mist also for if I've been in makeup for like hours, but I don't want to take it off and I want to refresh it and I want to bring hydration back to my skin."
Why Simplified Routines Work
The trend toward minimalist skincare isn't just about saving time—it's about reducing the risk of:
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Product interactions that cause irritation
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Over-exfoliation from too many actives
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Barrier damage from excessive layering
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Routine abandonment when steps become overwhelming
For anyone looking to build a one-step routine, starting with a multifunctional cleanser is the logical first step. A cleanser that exfoliates, removes impurities, and hydrates—like Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser—can replace two to three separate products while still delivering visible results.
Hailey's Minimal Makeup Approach
"I'm not somebody who really likes to wear makeup a lot in the daytime. I keep things very, very, very simple. So, usually just do the tiniest bit of concealer in just a couple areas for brightening," Hailey told Vogue.
Her go-to is the Kosas Revealer Concealer (around $32), which she uses instead of foundation. The skincare-makeup hybrid contains caffeine to de-puff and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
Cruelty-Free and Vegan: Making Ethical Choices in Your Skincare
Rhode products are cruelty-free, and this commitment extends to Hailey's personal values around skincare. For consumers who prioritize ethical practices, understanding labels and certifications matters.
What to Look For
Cruelty-free:
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No testing on animals at any stage of production
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Third-party certifications like Leaping Bunny or PETA
Vegan:
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Contains no animal-derived ingredients
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Plant-based alternatives used throughout
Clean beauty:
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Free from specific ingredients like parabens, sulfates, phthalates
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Transparency about what's included and excluded
Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser is both vegan and cruelty-free, sulfate-free and paraben-free. These certifications align with the values that consumers increasingly prioritize when selecting skincare products.
The Budget-Friendly Option in Hailey's Routine
Not every product in Hailey's routine is premium-priced. Aquaphor Healing Ointment, which she uses nightly, costs around 6-15 depending on size.
"I think it's the best lip balm," Hailey said. She also uses it for "slugging"—applying an occlusive layer to seal in all her other products overnight.
"I legitimately cannot go to bed without doing [this]...if I have really flaky dry patches anywhere on my skin, I would go in and put a little extra Aquaphor on those areas," she explained.
This proves that effective skincare doesn't require exclusively expensive products. The most important factor is choosing products that work for your skin and using them consistently.
Integrating SPF: The Non-Negotiable Step in Hailey Bieber's Routine
Sun protection is the one step Hailey refuses to skip. She considers it the most important thing she can do for her skin's long-term health.
"I don't leave the house ever in the daytime without sunscreen; it's an absolute must for me. I know for a fact it's the biggest anti-aging step I can take at my age right now," she stated.
Her SPF of Choice: EltaMD UV Daily Tinted SPF 40
This dermatologist-recommended sunscreen contains hyaluronic acid for hydration, offers broad-spectrum protection, and has a light tint that can work as a primer.
"A lot of sunscreens make my skin break out, and this one has been my holy grail," Hailey noted.
Dermatologist validation: "The EltaMD UV Daily Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 is a great sunscreen with hyaluronic acid. It's a great option for dry or sensitive skin. The tint is light enough to serve as a primer or substitute for makeup," explained Dr. Dhaval G. Bhanusali.
Why SPF Matters More Than Any Other Step
Sun damage is responsible for up to 80% of visible skin aging, including:
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Fine lines and wrinkles
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Dark spots and hyperpigmentation
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Loss of elasticity
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Uneven skin texture
When using products with AHAs or BHAs (like exfoliating cleansers), daily SPF becomes even more critical. These ingredients increase photosensitivity, making unprotected skin more vulnerable to sun damage.
Kipi recommends using SPF during the day while using the Exfoliating Daily Cleanser due to the presence of alpha hydroxy acids in the formula.
Building Your Own Hailey Bieber-Inspired Routine
Taking cues from Hailey's approach doesn't mean copying her exact product list. It means applying the same principles:
Morning:
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Gentle cleanse or hydrating mist
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Hydrating serum or essence
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Moisturizer
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SPF (non-negotiable)
Evening:
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Oil cleanse to remove makeup/SPF
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Gentle exfoliating cleanser
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Hydrating serum
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Moisturizer
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Optional: occlusive balm for extra hydration
For those wanting to simplify further, a one-step approach using a multifunctional cleanser morning and night, followed by SPF in the AM and moisturizer in the PM, covers the essentials.
Products at Every Price Point
Budget-friendly options (around $6-20):
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Aquaphor Healing Ointment
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Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment mini
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Drugstore hyaluronic acid serums
Mid-range options (around $28-38):
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Rhode Glazing Milk
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Rhode Pineapple Refresh Cleanser
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Kipi Exfoliating Daily Cleanser ($36, or $28.80 with subscription)
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EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40
Splurge options ($50+):
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MARA Algae Enzyme Cleansing Oil (around $58)
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Dr. Barbara Sturm Calming Serum
The key is consistency. A simple routine you actually follow beats an elaborate one you abandon after two weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to see results from a hydration-focused routine like Hailey's?
Most people notice improved skin hydration within the first week of consistent use. However, the full "glazed donut" effect—where skin appears plump, smooth, and luminous—typically takes around 28 days, which is one full skin cell turnover cycle. Barrier repair can take longer, sometimes 6-8 weeks, depending on how compromised your skin barrier was to begin with.
Can oily skin types follow Hailey Bieber's routine without looking greasy?
Yes. The key is choosing lightweight, water-based hydrating products rather than heavy creams. Products with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and gel textures add hydration without adding oil. For oil control without drying, focus on balancing rather than stripping—over-cleansing actually triggers more oil production.
Is double cleansing necessary every night?
Double cleansing is most beneficial when you've worn makeup, sunscreen, or spent significant time outdoors. On days when you haven't worn SPF or makeup, a single gentle cleanse is sufficient. The goal is to remove impurities without over-stripping. If your cleanser combines exfoliating and hydrating properties, you may be able to skip the double cleanse altogether.
What's the difference between the Peptide Glazing Fluid and Glazing Milk?
The Glazing Milk is a milky essence applied first as a hydration primer—it's lighter and preps the skin for subsequent products. The Peptide Glazing Fluid is a gel serum with a thicker texture, applied after the Glazing Milk to deliver peptides and niacinamide. Hailey uses both, but if choosing one, the Glazing Milk is more versatile as a multi-use product.
How does Hailey prevent breakouts while using so many hydrating products?
She prioritizes non-comedogenic formulas and products designed to balance rather than clog. Her SPF choice (EltaMD) is specifically oil-free and non-comedogenic. She also noted that proper cleansing at night to remove all product buildup is essential. The key is hydration without occlusion during the day, and reserving heavier occlusives like Aquaphor for nighttime use only.
