Between early morning lectures, late-night study sessions, campus parties, and part-time jobs, college life doesn’t exactly scream “self-care time.” Luckily, your skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated to be effective. Even if you’re sharing a dorm sink or living off caffeine and microwaveable ramen, there are ways to keep your glow game on point without spending your whole meal plan at Sephora.
To break down how to build a streamlined yet effective skincare routine, we tapped four board-certified dermatologists—Dr. Dara Spearman, Dr. Corey L. Hartman, Dr. Patricia Oyetakin, and Dr. Morayo Adisa—who share their top product picks, must-have ingredients, and tips for managing breakouts during high-stress weeks.
Skincare That Fits Your College Schedule
Dr. Spearman says the key to a low-maintenance routine is having the right basics: a gentle cleanser, hydrating moisturizer, daily SPF 30+, and one treatment to target any specific concerns like acne or hyperpigmentation. “Cleansing twice a day is non-negotiable,” she explains. “Then look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump, or ceramides to support the skin barrier.” For those dealing with breakouts or dullness, the founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates suggests layering in retinols, AHAs, or niacinamide to brighten and clarify the skin without overcomplicating things.
Retinol, SPF, and the Power of Simplicity
Dr. Oyetakin offers a simple phrase to keep in mind: “Cleanse, treat, protect.” She recommends a three-to-four-step routine morning and night, with retinol playing a central role. “It’s a powerhouse for both preventing and treating acne,” she says. To avoid irritation, she tells students to start slow—applying it three nights a week and gradually increasing frequency. Oyetakin also recommends multi-tasking formulas that combine acne-fighting and brightening ingredients, like salicylic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C. Her favorite tip for late-night cramming? “Whatever you do, don’t sleep in your makeup,” she says. “It’s one of the biggest culprits behind college breakouts.”
Multitasking Products Are Dorm Room Essentials
Dr. Adisa believes multitasking products are every student’s best friend. A gentle cleanser, a moisturizer with SPF in the morning, and a separate moisturizer at night can go a long way. “Products that combine hydration and active ingredients like azelaic acid or vitamin C help tackle discoloration, acne, and irritation in one step,” she says. And don’t forget the basics—like washing your face after a long day and actually applying that SPF before you head out the door. For students on the go, she suggests keeping micellar water wipes or a makeup remover balm in your bag to quickly cleanse without skipping your routine.
Consistency is the Secret to Clear Skin
Dr. Hartman says every college student should stick to what he calls “The Holy Trinity of Skincare”: antioxidants, retinol, and sunscreen. “Antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide help fight free radicals and often come in moisturizers, so it’s easy to get two benefits in one,” he explains. “A good retinol will help with acne, brighten skin tone, and promote smoother texture.” And like every expert we spoke to, Hartman insists sunscreen is non-negotiable: “SPF 30 should be part of your daily routine—no excuses.”
He recommends keeping both your morning and evening routines simple but effective. “In the morning, cleanse, apply an antioxidant, spot-treat if necessary, and finish with sunscreen,” says Hartman. “At night, cleanse again, use retinol, and moisturize.” The founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology‘s biggest advice for students? Don’t skip cleansing—especially after a late night. “Even if you don’t do the whole routine, at least wash your face. That alone can prevent clogged pores and future breakouts.”
When stress-induced pimples hit during midterms or finals, all four dermatologists agree that consistency is key. Hartman says staying hydrated, avoiding picking at your skin, and sticking with your basic routine can help offset breakouts. “Stress can show up on your skin,” he says, “but staying on track with your skincare—even in small ways—makes a big difference.”
Ultimately, you don’t need a 12-step system to have good skin in college. A few reliable products, a consistent routine, and some dermatologist-approved shortcuts can keep your skincare cute, quick, and totally manageable—even on your busiest days.