Kendall Jenner has been refreshingly honest about her acne-prone skin—so when she shares her skincare routine, people pay attention. In her 2024 Vogue Beauty Secrets video, the supermodel revealed a routine that balances luxury splurges with accessible drugstore finds, all while addressing her specific skin concerns. Most notably, she's "super anal about washing my face" and keeps her consistent routine approach with science-backed ingredients. Her approach mirrors modern skincare philosophy: multifunctional products that deliver results without complexity—much like Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, which combines exfoliation, cleansing, and hydration in one step.
What makes Kendall's routine particularly valuable is its accessibility. While she invests in luxury items like La Mer at around $210, her most-used products include L'Oréal finds under $30 and an approximately $43 sunscreen she wears daily. Her dermatologist Christie Kidd has treated her for over a decade, and her facialist Candice Miele works with her before major red carpet events. This combination of professional guidance and real-world product testing makes her routine both aspirational and replicable.
Key Takeaways
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Kendall's routine balances luxury and drugstore products, proving effective skincare doesn't require an all-luxury budget
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Her top pick is EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 at approximately $43—she wears it daily to protect acne-prone skin from aging
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Science-backed ingredients matter more than price: she prioritizes vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and glycolic acid across all price points
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Consistency and simplicity drive results—her philosophy is "keep things consistent but simple" with multifunctional products
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The biggest skin benefits come from proper cleansing, daily SPF, and targeted treatments for specific concerns like acne
Inside Kendall Jenner's Daily Skincare Routine at Home
Kendall's morning routine starts with lymphatic drainage using a chilled gua sha tool. She preps her face with coconut oil and rosewater, then massages in circular motions to address what she calls her "lymphatic system situation." This depuffing step takes about one minute and sets the foundation for product absorption.
Morning Routine Breakdown
After gua sha, Kendall reaches for Jan Marini Bioglycolic Face Cleanser (around $42), a glycolic acid cleanser with AHA. The pH-balanced formula exfoliates without stripping skin—critical for her acne-prone complexion. "I am super, super anal about washing my face because I am acne-prone," she told Vogue.
Core morning steps:
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Gua sha massage with Shea Moisture Coconut Oil (around $12) and Heritage Store Rosewater (around $9)
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Jan Marini Bioglycolic Cleanser for gentle exfoliation
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Vitamin C serum layering—either SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (around $182) or L'Oréal Revitalift Vitamin C (around $30)
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L'Oréal Hyaluronic Acid Serum (around $19) for plumping
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Weleda Skin Food (around $18.50) as day cream
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EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (approximately $43) every single day
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Caudalie Beauty Elixir mist (around $18-49) for a refreshing finish
Evening Routine Steps
Kendall's evening protocol focuses on thorough cleansing and treatment. She uses Perfect Skin by Christie Kidd Clean Natural Facial Cleanser (around $34)—formulated by her dermatologist specifically for acne-prone skin with tea tree oil and lavender oil.
Her makeup artist Mary Phillips revealed that before the 2024 Met Gala, she prepped Kendall's skin with L'Oréal's hyaluronic acid serum for "immediate skin plump." For overnight treatments, Kendall recently discovered Medicube PDRN Pink Collagen Gel Mask (around $18 for 5 masks), which she wears for 3-4 hours or overnight.
Product Layering Sequence
Kendall's facialist Candice Miele emphasizes proper layering: thinner products under thicker ones. Serums go first, then moisturizers, then SPF. For professional prep, Miele uses PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum (around $120) with multiple molecular weights for deep and surface hydration.
The entire morning routine takes 15 minutes or less—a philosophy Kendall maintains across both skincare and makeup. This streamlined approach aligns with building a one-step routine that delivers results without overwhelming complexity.
The Science Behind Celebrity Skin: What Makes Kendall's Skin Glow
The biological mechanisms behind glowing skin come down to three factors: proper exfoliation, sustained hydration, and barrier function. Kendall's routine addresses all three through specific active ingredients.
Exfoliation and Cell Renewal
Chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid (in her Jan Marini cleanser) break down the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing fresher skin underneath. This process increases cell turnover, which naturally slows with age. The glycolic acid concentration is gentle enough for daily use while still delivering visible results.
Kendall's approach to exfoliation avoids harsh physical scrubs, which can aggravate acne-prone skin. Her dermatologist Christie Kidd notes that consistent, gentle exfoliation prevents the buildup that leads to clogged pores and breakouts.
Key exfoliation benefits:
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Smoother skin texture from regular cell turnover
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Reduced appearance of pores through debris removal
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Better product absorption when dead cells are cleared
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More even skin tone as pigmentation sheds naturally
For those seeking similar exfoliation without multiple products, Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser delivers triple-action hydroxy acids (2.4% total) combining AHA, BHA, and PHA. This multifunctional approach mirrors Kendall's preference for products that serve multiple purposes.
Hydration Science for Radiance
Hyaluronic acid appears in multiple routine steps of Kendall's routine—she stated "I always use...hyaluronic acid" as a non-negotiable. This molecule holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, creating that plump, dewy appearance associated with healthy skin.
Charged hyaluronic acid, like the formulation in Kipi's cleanser (0.1%), carries a positive charge that enhances water molecule binding. This next-generation HA delivers lasting moisture even after rinsing, unlike traditional hyaluronic acid that can feel dry if not sealed properly.
When skin is properly hydrated, light reflects more evenly across the surface—this is the literal mechanism behind "glow." Dehydrated skin scatters light, creating a dull appearance. Kendall's layering of multiple hydrating products (serum, cream, mist) ensures moisture at different skin depths.
Best Skin Care Routine Products: Celebrity vs. Accessible
The gap between celebrity skincare and accessible alternatives has narrowed significantly. Kendall's own routine proves that drugstore products can deliver professional-grade results when chosen strategically.
Essential Product Categories
Cleansers: Kendall uses both an approximately $42 glycolic acid cleanser and an around $34 dermatologist-formulated natural cleanser. The active ingredients matter more than the price—glycolic acid, tea tree oil, and pH balance are available across price points.
For comparison, Kipi's Exfoliating Daily Cleanser at around $36 (or $28.80 with subscription) delivers triple-action hydroxy acids, charged hyaluronic acid, and Pro-vitamin B5 in one multifunctional formula. This collapses three separate steps—cleansing, exfoliating, hydrating—into one product.
Serums: The biggest price variation appears in serums. Kendall uses SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic at around $182, but also L'Oréal Revitalift Vitamin C at around $30—1/6 the price. The L'Oréal version contains 12% pure vitamin C, while SkinCeuticals has 15% in a different formulation.
Moisturizers: Kendall balances La Mer (around $210) with Weleda Skin Food (around $18.50). Both deliver intense hydration, but through different ingredient philosophies—La Mer's fermented sea kelp versus Weleda's herbal extracts.
Active Ingredients That Matter
Kendall's routine consistently includes vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and chemical exfoliants—regardless of price point. These actives have the most robust clinical evidence for improving skin health.
Priority actives across all budgets:
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Vitamin C for brightening and antioxidant protection
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Hyaluronic acid for hydration and plumping
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AHA/BHA for exfoliation and pore clearing
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Niacinamide for calming and barrier support
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Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5) for soothing and repair
The concentration and formulation stability matter more than luxury branding. A well-formulated drugstore serum with 12% vitamin C can outperform a poorly stabilized luxury version with 20%.
Luxury vs. Science-Backed Alternatives
When luxury products justify their price, it's typically through proprietary technology (like SkinCeuticals' C E Ferulic patent) or rare ingredients (like La Mer's fermented sea kelp). However, many luxury benefits can be achieved with science-backed alternatives at lower price points.
Kipi's approach to premium skincare simplification delivers professional-grade actives—triple hydroxy acids at precise percentages, charged hyaluronic acid technology—without the luxury markup. The cleanser's formulation at skin-natural pH (4.5-5.5) matches the attention to pH balance that Kendall's dermatologist emphasizes.
For acne-prone skin specifically, ingredients and pH matter more than prestige. Kendall's mix of price points proves this philosophy works in practice.
How to Make Your Skin Glow Naturally at Home: Science-Backed Steps
Achieving Kendall's glow requires more than topical products. The science of radiant skin combines exfoliation, hydration, and lifestyle factors that support skin from within.
Exfoliation Without Irritation
Chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA, PHA) deliver more consistent results than physical scrubs without the micro-tearing that causes inflammation. Kendall's glycolic acid cleanser represents the gentle approach—enough to clear dead cells without disrupting the barrier.
Optimal exfoliation frequency:
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Daily: Low-concentration AHA (2-5%) or PHA in a cleanser
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2-3x weekly: Higher-concentration AHA (8-10%) or BHA (2%) leave-on treatments
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Weekly: Professional-strength peels or enzyme masks
Kipi's triple-action blend (2.4% total) combines 1% AHA from citrus extracts, 0.4% BHA (salicylic acid), and 1% PHA (gluconolactone). This layered approach exfoliates at multiple skin depths while the PHA hydrates simultaneously—preventing the dryness typical of traditional exfoliants.
The polyhydroxy acid (gluconolactone) is particularly gentle because its larger molecular size means slower penetration. This makes it suitable for sensitive skin exfoliation without irritation.
Hydration Strategies for Radiance
Kendall's philosophy: "I always use...hyaluronic acid." Layering different molecular weights ensures hydration at both surface and deeper skin levels.
The most effective hydration strategy combines humectants (hyaluronic acid, glycerin), emollients (oils, fatty acids), and occlusives (petrolatum, dimethicone) in sequence. Kendall's routine demonstrates this: HA serum (humectant) → Weleda Skin Food (emollient) → SPF (contains occlusives).
Moisture-locking natural sugars enhance hydration further. Kipi's formula includes a blend of xylitol and xylitylglucoside that forms a hydrating matrix on skin's surface, optimizing water reserves for both immediate and long-term hydration.
Lifestyle Habits for Glowing Skin
Beyond products, Kendall's skin benefits from professional treatments, consistent sleep (when possible), and stress management. She works with facialist Candice Miele regularly and uses at-home devices like the TheraFace Mask Glo (around $380).
Non-topical glow factors:
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Sleep: Skin repairs itself during deep sleep cycles (7-9 hours)
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Hydration: Drinking adequate water supports skin's moisture balance
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Diet: Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens) reduce oxidative stress
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Stress management: Chronic stress triggers inflammation and breakouts
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Facial massage: Kendall's daily gua sha supports lymphatic drainage
The gua sha technique Kendall demonstrates in her Vogue video takes one minute but improves circulation and reduces morning puffiness. She keeps her tool chilled for enhanced depuffing effects.
Luxury Skincare Products Worth the Investment
Kendall's routine includes strategic luxury purchases where formulation technology or ingredient quality justifies premium pricing. Understanding when to splurge versus save optimizes results and budget.
When Luxury Formulas Deliver
Ingredient concentration and stability: SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic uses a patented formulation that maintains vitamin C stability—crucial since L-ascorbic acid oxidizes easily. The approximately $182 price reflects years of research and a delivery system that ensures the active reaches target cells.
Proprietary technology: La Mer's fermentation process takes 3-4 months and creates bio-ferments not available in standard moisturizers. Charged hyaluronic acid (used in professional formulas and Kipi's cleanser) represents another technology advance that justifies higher pricing.
Clinical testing: Professional brands invest in clinical studies proving efficacy. TheraFace's LED mask has clinical data showing wrinkle reduction in 8 weeks—this testing adds cost but provides evidence of results.
Common Skincare Mistakes to Avoid (That Kendall Doesn't Make)
Kendall's long relationship with dermatologist Christie Kidd has taught her to avoid the errors that sabotage most skincare routines. Her approach demonstrates what works—and what to skip.
Over-Exfoliation Errors
The biggest exfoliation mistake is using multiple acids daily without understanding concentrations. Kendall uses glycolic acid in her cleanser—a gentle daily amount. She doesn't layer this with high-strength peels or additional exfoliating toners.
Signs of over-exfoliation:
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Persistent redness or sensitivity
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Skin feels tight and dry despite moisturizer
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Increased breakouts (from disrupted barrier)
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Flaking or peeling beyond normal cell turnover
The solution is choosing a pH-balanced formula with buffered acids. Kipi's cleanser is formulated at skin's natural pH (4.5-5.5), preventing the barrier disruption that leads to over-exfoliation. The 2.4% total hydroxy acid concentration exfoliates effectively without the irritation of higher percentages.
Product Layering Mistakes
Kendall's facialist emphasizes proper product order: thinner consistency to thicker. Applying thick cream before serum prevents the serum from penetrating.
Correct layering sequence:
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Cleanser (remove all impurities first)
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Water-based serums (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid)
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Oil-based serums or treatments (if using)
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Moisturizer (seal everything in)
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SPF (final morning step—never under moisturizer)
Mixing incompatible activities is another common error. Vitamin C works best at low pH (3-3.5), while niacinamide prefers higher pH (5-6). Kendall keeps her vitamin C separate from her niacinamide-containing SPF by letting the vitamin C absorb for a few minutes first.
Adapting a Celebrity Skincare Routine to Your Budget and Skin Type
Kendall's routine can be modified for any budget while maintaining the core benefits. The key is identifying the active ingredients that matter and finding them at your price point.
Finding Luxury Ingredient Dupes
Kendall uses both SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic (around $182) and L'Oréal Vitamin C (around $30)—proving she recognizes when the drugstore delivers comparable results. The L'Oréal version contains 12% pure vitamin C versus SkinCeuticals' 15%, a minor difference for most users.
Ingredient matching strategy:
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Identify the active: Look for vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, etc.
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Check concentration: Higher isn't always better—10-12% vitamin C is effective, 20% often irritating
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Verify formulation: pH matters for efficacy (vitamin C needs pH 3-3.5)
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Read reviews: Look for clinical data or reviews of results
For luxury moisturizers, identify the primary benefits (hydration, barrier support, anti-aging) then find drugstore alternatives with similar ingredient profiles. La Mer's sea kelp can be matched by more affordable algae extracts or ceramide-based creams.
Customizing for Sensitive Skin
Kendall's acne-prone skin shares characteristics with sensitive skin—both require gentle formulations and careful product selection. Her dermatologist formulated Perfect Skin cleanser specifically for her needs.
Sensitive skin modifications:
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Use PHA instead of AHA/BHA (gentler exfoliation)
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Choose fragrance-free formulas (Kendall's professional products avoid added fragrance)
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Patch test new products on jawline for 48 hours
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Introduce one new product every 2-3 weeks
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Avoid high-concentration actives (stick to 5-10% vitamin C, 2-5% acids)
Kipi's formula includes gluconolactone (PHA) at 1%, which exfoliates while hydrating—ideal for sensitive types who need cell turnover without irritation.
Building a Budget-Friendly Routine
A complete routine inspired by Kendall's philosophy can be built for around $130:
Budget-optimized routine:
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Cleanser: Kipi Exfoliating Daily Cleanser, around $29 (subscription) - replaces separate cleanser, exfoliant, hydrating toner
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Vitamin C: L'Oréal Revitalift 12% Vitamin C Serum, around $30
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Hyaluronic Acid: L'Oréal Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum, around $19
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SPF: EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, approximately $43 (splurge item worth it)
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Optional mist: Heritage Store Rosewater, around $9
Total: Approximately $130 (or around $108 with Kipi subscription)
This hits all of Kendall's core ingredients—chemical exfoliation, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, daily SPF—at a fraction of her luxury routine cost. The multifunctional approach of simplifying your routine with products like Kipi's cleanser saves both money and time.
For even tighter budgets, prioritize in this order: SPF (non-negotiable), cleanser (used twice daily), vitamin C or retinol (treatment active), moisturizer. Add extras like masks or mists only after covering basics.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cleanser does Kendall Jenner actually use every day?
Kendall alternates between Jan Marini Bioglycolic Face Cleanser (around $42) and Perfect Skin by Christie Kidd Clean Natural Facial Cleanser (around $34), formulated by her dermatologist. The Jan Marini cleanser uses glycolic acid for gentle daily exfoliation, while the Christie Kidd formula includes tea tree and lavender oils for acne-prone skin. She told Vogue she’s “super anal about washing my face” because incomplete cleansing tends to trigger her breakouts.
Can you really get glowing skin like Kendall Jenner using drugstore products?
Yes—Kendall uses several drugstore staples. The key is choosing products with proven activities (vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, gentle chemical exfoliants) and using them consistently with good technique, not just chasing luxury labels.
What affordable alternative to Augustinus Bader does Kendall use?
For a similarly multifunctional, premium-feeling product, Kipi's Exfoliating Cleanser (around $36, or around $29 with subscription) combines triple-acid exfoliation with charged hyaluronic acid technology often found in higher-end lines.
How often should you exfoliate for glowing skin like Kendall?
Kendall uses a gentle glycolic acid cleanser in the morning for daily, low-level exfoliation that supports steady cell turnover without harsh peels. For most people, mild acids in the 2–5% AHA or PHA range can be used daily, while stronger formulas (around 8–10% AHA or 2% BHA) are better 2–3 times per week. Look for pH-balanced products that protect the skin barrier and avoid layering multiple strong acids, which can cause redness, dryness, and more breakouts. If your skin is sensitive or acne-prone like Kendall’s, PHAs offer gentler exfoliation with added hydration.
Are luxury skincare products really better than drugstores for anti-aging?
Not automatically—Kendall’s routine shows that mixing smartly is more important than price. Some luxury products earn their cost with patented technology or specialized ingredients, but core actives like vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and retinol can work just as well at drugstore prices when properly formulated. Research suggests concentration, stability, and pH matter more than the label. Kendall tends to splurge where formulation tech makes a difference (like a professional vitamin C serum) and save on straightforward hydration and protection. In your own routine, invest in what you use daily—especially SPF and proven activities—and opt for drugstore options when the ingredient lists are essentially the same.
