What I Actually Use in a Week (Not the Influencer Version)

My real weekly skincare routine as a licensed cosmetologist includes consistent basics, targeted treatments like LED and microneedling, and flexibility for real life. I use tretinoin regularly, support my skin barrier daily, and focus on consistency over perfection

I’ve been in the beauty industry since 2001, and if there’s one thing I don’t do… it’s pretend my routine is perfect every day.

Because it’s not.

Some days I’m on it—full routine, layered skincare, feeling like I have my life together. Other days? I’m tired, overwhelmed, or just not in the mood… and it shows.

And that’s real life.

So here’s what my week actually looks like—not the curated version.

Most days, I stick to the basics. Cleanser. Moisturizer. SPF.

That alone carries more weight than people think. Because consistency beats a 10-step routine you only do twice a week.

Now let’s get into what I actually use. Most mornings, I use tretinoin. Yeah—morning. I know, I know… some people are side-eyeing that

But after 20+ years in this industry, I’ve learned how my skin reacts, and this is what works for me.

I follow it with growth factor—specifically the ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum—most days. That’s my “support the skin while I’m pushing it” step.

On my lazy days? That step usually gets cut.

But one thing that does not get skipped?

CeraVe Moisturizing Cream

Every. Single. Time.

Because no matter what you’re using—tretinoin, treatments, anything— if your barrier isn’t supported, your skin will remind you real quick who’s in charge.

Then I layer in treatments.

Twice a week, I use the Omnilux Contour Face LED Mask for 10 minutes. Easy. Low effort. No excuses.

Every other week, I’ll do microneedling with the Qure Micro Infusion System. That one’s more of a commitment—but worth it.

And then there are the “off” days.

The days where I do the bare minimum. Or skip something. Or just don’t feel like being “on.” And once in a blue moon? I skip it all.

No actives. No routine. Nothing.

And honestly? Sometimes your skin needs that too. After 20+ years, I’ve learned this: Skin doesn’t need perfection. It needs support.

So no, I don’t have a flawless routine. I have a realistic one. And that’s exactly why it works.

~Tj🩷