How to Organize Skincare Products (Without Losing Your Glow)

Today’s post is written by Megan Barnhart, a Professional Organizer and founder of Barnhart Home. With a passion for creating calm, functional spaces, Megan brings her expertise to organizing your favorite skincare items. She shares how a little structure can turn your daily routine into a moment of ease and intention.

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Let’s talk skincare… and clutter.

You know that feeling when you're digging through a drawer of half-used serums, mystery samples, and expired sunscreen, just trying to find your moisturizer? Yeah, not exactly the relaxing vibe we want for our self-care routines.

The good news? Organizing your skincare products doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few simple steps, you can create a clean, calming space that supports your routine and makes your skin feel just as happy as you do.

Here’s how to make it happen: warm, simple and a little bit luxurious.

Step 1: Take It All Out (Yes, All of It)

First things first — gather every skincare product you own. Empty out your bathroom drawers, nightstand, travel bags, etc. If it touches your face, it’s coming to the party.

Lay it all out and really look at what you have. You might be surprised how many duplicates (or expired bottles) are hiding in the back of a cabinet.

Step 2: Declutter with Intention

This part is key. Toss anything that’s expired, smells off, or hasn’t been used in over 6–12 months. Be honest — if it didn’t work for you then, it’s probably not going to now.

Keep your current, go-to routine items. Toss products that are expired. Gift products that are irritating or just not your vibe.

Remember: the goal isn’t to have more products. It’s to feel more peace when you use them.

Step 3: Sort by Use (Not Just Type)

Now that you’ve got your favorites, sort them by when you use them: daily essentials like cleansers, moisturizers, and SPF; weekly or occasional items like masks, exfoliants, and treatments; and special items like travel sizes, luxury splurges, or tools.

This makes it easy to find what you need without digging through the whole stash every time you wash your face.

Step 4: Contain and Label

Here’s where it gets fun. Use clear bins, drawer organizers, or even pretty trays to group similar items together.

Use shallow organizers (like a custom drawer insert) so everything’s visible and accessible — no more forgotten products lost in the back.

Consider adding labels like “AM Routine,” “PM Routine,” or “Glow Goals” — whatever helps you feel in control and a little fancy.

Step 5: Store for Real Life

Your skincare should live where you actually use it. For most of us, that’s a top bathroom drawer, a small caddy under the sink, a tray on your vanity, or a mini fridge for those who really love a cool serum.

Bonus points if you can keep things clean and easy to wipe down — your future self will thank you every morning.

Step 6: Make It a Ritual

Now that everything has a home, enjoy it. Skincare is more than just “products” — it’s a chance to slow down, check in with yourself, and show up with love (literally and figuratively).

Your organized skincare space should feel calming, not chaotic. And when it does? Your routine becomes a ritual, not a chore.

Your Glow-Up Starts with a Clear Space

Organizing your skincare isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention. Whether you’re a 3-step minimalist or a full-on 10-step layering queen, you deserve a system that supports your routine and sparks joy.

So go ahead — clear the clutter, keep what you love, and make your skincare setup feel as beautiful as you are.

You’ve got this, glow-getter.