When BTS’s Jungkook casually mentioned drinking kombucha during a V Live in 2021, the brand reportedly sold out in three days—proof of the “Jungkook Effect” reaching far beyond drinks. As the youngest BTS member (born in 1997), he’s built a skincare approach that fits a nonstop performance schedule: consistent, gentle, skin-respecting basics rooted in K-beauty—easy to adapt if you’re aiming for a simple skincare routine. Over time, his routine has shifted from early, mainstream K-beauty staples to more sophisticated, barrier-focused formulas that support hydrated, resilient skin. This guide pulls together his most-cited, publicly shared picks across V Lives, the 2024 “Are You Sure?!” Disney+ series, Bangtan Bombs, and widely circulated social posts, organized step by step so you can borrow the principles (not the hype) and make them work for your own skin.
Key Takeaways
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Jungkook's routine centers on pH-balanced cleansing, gentle exfoliation, and layered hydration—foundational K-beauty principles
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Fans recently identified Aestura A-Cera365 cream in the 2024 Disney+ series "Are You Sure?!" showing a shift toward dermocosmetic skincare
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He owns at least five different lip balms, ranging from around $4 Vaseline to $39 Bobbi Brown
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The "Jungkook Effect" drove Teazen Kombucha sales up 500% after a single V Live mention
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K-beauty emphasizes prevention and barrier protection over harsh treatments—a philosophy that benefits all skin types
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Products range from approximately $3-$39, making the routine accessible across budgets
The Pillars of Korean Skincare Simplified
K-pop idols like Jungkook often turn to double cleansing, using an oil-based cleanser first to remove makeup and sunscreen, followed by a foaming or gel cleanser to clear dirt and excess oil. This layered approach extends throughout the routine—toners, serums, moisturizers, and SPF each serve a specific purpose.
Core K-beauty principles Jungkook follows:
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pH-balanced formulas that match skin's natural acidity (4.5-5.5)
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Gentle exfoliation with chemical acids rather than harsh physical scrubs
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Hydration layering from lightest to heaviest textures
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Daily SPF regardless of weather or indoor time
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Barrier protection to prevent moisture loss
BTS members showcase flawless skin even after intense performances and layers of stage makeup. Each member brings something unique to their routine, but they share this commitment to gentle, consistent care.
The good news? You don't need a 10-step routine to get results. Many of these principles can be condensed into fewer products—something that matters for busy schedules.
Why Cleansing is the Cornerstone of Any Effective Routine
Every skincare expert agrees: your routine is only as good as your cleanse. Without properly removing impurities, sweat, and excess oil, nothing else can penetrate effectively.
The Role of Exfoliation in a Daily Cleanser
Jungkook's verified cleanser is the COSRX Low pH Cleanser, a cult-classic K-beauty product priced around $12-15. It contains tea tree oil and natural BHA (betaine salicylate) while maintaining a low pH that won't strip the skin.
What makes this cleanser work:
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pH 5.0-6.0 matches skin's natural acid mantle
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Tea tree oil provides mild antibacterial benefits
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BHA helps clear pores without irritation
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Suitable for oily, combination, and sensitive skin
The principle here matters more than the specific product. A daily exfoliating cleanser that combines gentle acids with hydrating ingredients can deliver similar benefits—cleansing, exfoliating, and prepping skin in one step.
Hydration from the First Step
After cleansing, Jungkook uses Zeroid Pimprove Toner, which V shared in V Live for acne-prone skin. This dermatologist-recommended toner contains:
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Salicylic acid for gentle exfoliation
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Ceramides for barrier support
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Hyaluronic acid for hydration
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Zinc PCA for sebum control
The combination of treatment actives with hydrating ingredients reflects K-beauty's balanced approach—addressing concerns without causing dryness.
Targeted Exfoliation for a Clearer, Smoother Complexion
Korean skincare prioritizes chemical exfoliation over physical scrubs. Jungkook's routine incorporates BHA through both his cleanser and toner, creating a gentle but effective exfoliation system.
The Science Behind Hydroxy Acids
Different acids serve different purposes:
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AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids): Water-soluble, work on skin's surface, brighten complexion
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BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids): Oil-soluble, penetrate pores, clear sebum and debris
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PHA (Polyhydroxy Acids): Larger molecules, gentler exfoliation with hydrating benefits
Jungkook's toner relies primarily on BHA (salicylic acid) to address oil control—a common concern for men whose skin produces more sebum than women's.
Gentle Exfoliation for Daily Use
The key to Jungkook's clear skin isn't aggressive treatment—it's consistent, mild exfoliation. Products formulated at skin's natural pH (4.5-5.5) allow for daily use without disrupting the moisture barrier.
For those seeking a simplified approach, multi-action cleansers that combine AHA, BHA, and PHA offer comprehensive exfoliation in one step. This mirrors the efficiency K-pop idols need when touring globally with limited time for extensive routines.
Achieving Lasting Hydration: A Key to Jungkook's Youthful Look
Hydration is where Jungkook's routine really shines. Multiple products work together to lock in moisture and maintain that "glass skin" glow.
Innovative Hydration: His Current Moisturizer
Fans recently identified Aestura A-Cera365 cream in the 2024 Disney+ series "Are You Sure?!" This dermocosmetic product from AmorePacific's medical skincare line features:
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Ceramides for barrier repair
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MLE (Multi-Lamellar Emulsion) Technology that mimics skin's natural structure
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Dermatologist-developed formulation
Fan comments on the Instagram verification post noted: "That aestura moisturizer truly changed my skin for the best"—showing real-world results beyond celebrity use.
This shift from mainstream K-beauty (like his earlier ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Deep Cream) to dermocosmetic products reflects how skincare needs evolve with age. Jungkook's routine has matured alongside him.
Moisture-Locking Technology for Overnight Recovery
For nighttime, Jungkook uses the Laneige Water Sleeping Mask—notably, a special BTS x Amore Pacific collaboration edition. This overnight mask uses Moisture Wrap™ Technology to prevent water loss while you sleep.
Why overnight masks matter:
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Extended contact time for deeper hydration
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Works during skin's natural repair cycle
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Addresses dryness from stage lights, travel, and heavy makeup
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Also loved by Nayeon
The thick, cushiony formula stays on overnight without transferring to pillows—practical for anyone's routine.
Jungkook's Verified Products: The Complete List
Here's the breakdown of products with strong verification from official BTS content, fan documentation, and reliable K-beauty sources.
Core Skincare Products
1. COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser (around $12-15)
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Verification: K Beauty World
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Key ingredients: Tea tree oil, natural BHA
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Best for: Daily morning and evening cleanse
2. Zeroid Pimprove Toner (around $18-25)
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Verification: V-Live verified, shared with V
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Key ingredients: Salicylic acid, ceramides, hyaluronic acid
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Best for: Oily, acne-prone skin
3. Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum (around $18-28)
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Verification: K Beauty World
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Key ingredients: Green tea extract, antioxidants
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Best for: Lightweight hydration, environmental protection
4. Aestura A-Cera365 Cream (around $25-35)
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Verification: 2024 Disney+ series
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Key ingredients: Ceramides, MLE technology
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Best for: Barrier repair, all skin types
5. ETUDE HOUSE Moistfull Collagen Deep Cream (around $20-30)
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Verification: Skin Cupid
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Key ingredients: Super Collagen™, baobab oil
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Best for: Deep hydration, dry skin
6. Laneige Water Sleeping Mask (around $24-36)
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Verification: BTS x Amore Pacific
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Technology: Moisture Wrap™
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Best for: Overnight recovery
Sun Protection
7. AHC Natural Perfection Double Shield Sun Stick SPF50+ PA++++ (around $15-25)
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Verification: Bon Voyage Season 3
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Features: Dual IR + UV protection, stick format
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Best for: On-the-go reapplication, travel
Treatment Products
8. Mediheal Tea Tree Care Solution Essential Mask (around $3.50/sheet)
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Verification: V-Live with members
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Key ingredients: Tea tree extract, centella asiatica
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Best for: Weekly calming treatment, post-performance recovery
9. CosRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (around $5-8/pack)
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Verification: All BTS members
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Technology: Hydrocolloid
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Best for: Overnight spot treatment
The Lip Care Collection: Why Jungkook Owns 5+ Balms
BTS take serious care of their lips, and eagle-eyed fans have identified at least five of Jungkook's go-to lip products. This dedication makes sense given the demands of performing under harsh stage lighting and traveling through different climates.
Jungkook's verified lip products:
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Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm
Price: Around $4–7 -
SPF: No
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Key benefit: Natural, shea butter
Vaseline Rosy Lip Therapy
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Price: Around $3–5
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SPF: No
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Key benefit: Most moisturizing
Rohto Mentholatum Water Lip CC SPF20
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Price: Around $11
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SPF: SPF 20
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Key benefit: Sun protection
Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment Rose
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Price: Around $26–28
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SPF: SPF 15
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Key benefit: Luxury treatment
Bobbi Brown Extra Lip Tint (Bare Pink)
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Price: Around $32–39
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SPF: No
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Key benefit: Makeup hybrid
The range from $3 drugstore basics to $39 luxury treatments shows a layered approach—different products for different occasions, climates, and needs.
Simplifying the Routine for Real Life
Jungkook's multi-step approach works for a K-pop idol with access to premium products and dedicated time. But the underlying principles can be condensed.
The Essential Steps
At minimum, an effective routine needs:
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Cleanse – Remove impurities without stripping
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Treat – Address specific concerns (acne, dullness, hydration)
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Moisturize – Lock in hydration and support barrier
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Protect – SPF during daytime
For those seeking efficiency, a one-step skincare routine built around a multi-action cleanser can combine cleansing, exfoliation, and initial hydration. This mirrors what Jungkook achieves across multiple products—just condensed.
The principle of pH-balanced cleansing with gentle acids applies regardless of brand. Products formulated at skin's natural pH (4.5-5.5) with triple-action hydroxy acids—combining AHA, BHA, and PHA—offer the same gentle exfoliation Jungkook gets from layering his cleanser and toner.
Travel-Friendly Options
Jungkook's AHC sun stick format reflects the practical needs of constant travel. TSA-compliant sizes and multi-functional products matter when you're living out of a carry-on.
A 60ml cleanser that combines cleansing, exfoliating, and hydrating steps—like what Kipi offers—fits this same travel-first philosophy. One product doing the work of three means less luggage and simpler routines on the road.
Beyond Skincare: Inside-Out Beauty
Jungkook's approach extends beyond topical products. The Teazen Kombucha Lemon that caused that 500% sales surge reflects K-beauty's holistic philosophy.
What the kombucha offers:
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12 types of lactic acid bacteria
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Prebiotics and probiotics
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Vitamin C
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Only 15 calories per sachet
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No added sugar
Jungkook drinks 2 sachets daily, viewing gut health as part of skin health. The brand's response to the "Jungkook Effect" included donating to charity and winning the 2021 Brand of the Year award.
This inside-out approach aligns with emerging research on the gut-skin axis. While topical products handle surface concerns, overall wellness supports the skin from within.
Morning vs. Night Routine Breakdown
Based on verified routine documentation, here's how Jungkook's products likely fit into daily timing:
Morning Routine
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COSRX Low pH Cleanser
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Zeroid Pimprove Toner
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Innisfree Green Tea Serum
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Aestura or ETUDE Moisturizer
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AHC Sun Stick SPF50+
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Lip balm with SPF (Rohto Mentholatum Water Lip CC or Fresh Sugar Treatment)
Evening Routine
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COSRX Low pH Cleanser
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Zeroid Pimprove Toner
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Innisfree Green Tea Serum
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Aestura or ETUDE Moisturizer
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Laneige Water Sleeping Mask (2-3x weekly)
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CosRX Pimple Patch (as needed)
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Lip balm (Vaseline or Burt's Bees)
Weekly Treatments
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Mediheal Tea Tree Mask (1-2x weekly)
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Deep moisturizing focus after heavy makeup days
Adapting the Routine to Your Skin
Jungkook's routine works for his combination, occasionally acne-prone skin. Here's how to adapt the principles:
For oily skin:
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Focus on BHA products for pore clearing
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Lightweight gel moisturizers over heavy creams
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Oil control without over-drying is key
For dry skin:
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Layer hydrating products (toner → serum → cream)
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Use sleeping masks more frequently
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Skip harsh exfoliants
For sensitive skin:
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Start with lower acid concentrations
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Patch test new products
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Focus on barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides
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Consider exfoliating sensitive skin approaches
For combination skin:
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Zone-specific application (lighter products on T-zone)
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Balance exfoliation with hydration
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Multi-action cleansers work well for efficiency
Men's skin is approximately 30% thicker than women's and produces more sebum, making BHA-based products particularly effective across different skin types. The K-beauty principles Jungkook follows—pH-balanced cleansing, gentle chemical exfoliation, layered hydration, and daily SPF—work universally when adjusted for individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Jungkook actually use all these products, or is this speculation?
Every product in our main list has verification through official BTS content (V Lives, Bangtan Bomb videos, Bon Voyage footage, or the 2024 "Are You Sure?!" Disney+ series) or multiple independent fan documentation sources. We've excluded any products based purely on speculation. The Aestura cream, for example, was spotted in the Disney+ series, while other products appeared in V Lives where members went through skincare routines.
How much would Jungkook's full routine cost to replicate?
The core skincare products (cleanser through sunscreen) total approximately $110-170 depending on where you purchase. Adding the full lip care collection brings it to around $175-250. However, you don't need everything—starting with a pH-balanced cleanser (around $12-15), basic moisturizer (around $20-30), and SPF (around $15-25) covers the essentials for under $70.
Why does Jungkook's routine include so many different lip balms?
K-pop idols face unique lip care challenges: dry airplane cabins during constant travel, harsh stage lighting that dehydrates skin, heavy makeup that requires different products for bare-face versus camera-ready looks, and varying climates across world tours. Different lip products serve different purposes—SPF for daytime, heavy moisturizing for overnight, tinted options for public appearances.
Has Jungkook's skincare routine changed over the years?
Yes, noticeably. Earlier verifications (2017-2021) showed mainstream K-beauty brands like ETUDE HOUSE and basic COSRX products. More recent 2024 verifications reveal a shift toward dermocosmetic brands like Aestura, which is AmorePacific's medical-grade skincare line. This evolution reflects how skincare needs change with age—Jungkook's routine now focuses more on barrier repair and prevention than it did in his early twenties.
What's the most important takeaway from Jungkook's skincare approach?
Consistency beats complexity. While Jungkook uses multiple products, the underlying philosophy is simple: cleanse gently, exfoliate without irritation, hydrate thoroughly, and protect daily. You could achieve similar principles with a daily exfoliating cleanser that combines multiple steps, a basic moisturizer, and SPF. The "glass skin" result comes from doing the basics well, every day—not from owning every product on a celebrity's shelf.
