How Women Made Their Skin Glow in 1980 blog
Sweety KarlakThe 1980s were bold, bright, and unapologetically glamorous. From neon makeup to big hair, beauty in the ’80s was all about expression. But behind the iconic looks, women also followed routines to keep their skin glowing—some that still exist today, and others best left in the past. Here’s a nostalgic look at how women in the 1980s achieved that coveted glow.
1. The Cleanse–Tone–Moisturize Routine
The CTM routine exploded in popularity during the ’80s thanks to major beauty brands. Women religiously followed:
a foaming or bar-soap cleanser
an alcohol-based toner
a rich moisturizer
It was considered the “correct” way to maintain a bright, fresh complexion.
2. Cold Cream Was Still a Staple
Cold creams like Pond’s were widely used to remove heavy makeup—especially the dramatic eyeshadow and foundation trends of the decade. It left skin soft, moisturized, and dewy.
3. Face Masks (Especially Clay & Peel-Off Masks)
Peel-off masks became an at-home spa craze in the 1980s. Women loved the instant tightening effect and the satisfying peel. Clay masks were also trendy for “deep pore cleansing” after a long day of makeup and hairspray exposure.
4. Vitamin E Oil
Vitamin E capsules were a beauty hack. Women pierced the capsule and applied the oil directly to the skin to:
fade scars
moisturize
boost glow
It was one of the most popular DIY skincare treatments of the decade.
5. Astringents With LOTS of Alcohol
To fight breakouts and get that squeaky-clean feeling, many used strong astringents. These toners removed oil instantly but often stripped the skin. Still, they were seen as the secret to keeping the complexion clear and radiant.
6. Sunscreen Began Gaining Popularity
Tanning was still fashionable, but more women started using sunscreen as awareness of UV damage grew. Many used SPF 15 or lower—often only at the beach—but it marked the beginning of sun-safe beauty.
7. Heavy Moisturizers for the Dewy Glow
In the ’80s, glowing skin meant moisturized skin. Creams with:
lanolin
mineral oil
cocoa butter
were extremely popular. Women applied thick layers at night to wake up with a soft, plump complexion.
8. Early Anti-Aging Products
The 1980s introduced the first generation of anti-aging skincare. Products with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) began showing up in stores, promoting exfoliation and brightness. These were the “miracle” products of the era.
9. Exfoliating Scrubs (Apricot Scrub, Anyone?)
St. Ives Apricot Scrub became a cultural icon. Women used gritty exfoliators to remove dead skin and reveal a fresh glow. While many loved the immediate results, dermatologists later criticized these scrubs for being too harsh.
10. Aerobics & Sweating for That Natural Flush
Thanks to Jane Fonda and the fitness craze, exercise became a major trend. Sweating was praised as a natural detox, and many women believed regular aerobics classes helped them achieve a healthy, radiant glow from within.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the most popular skincare routine in the 1980s?
The classic cleanse–tone–moisturize routine dominated the decade.
2. Did women exfoliate in the 1980s?
Yes—grainy scrubs like apricot scrubs were widely used.
3. Were peel-off masks really a trend?
Absolutely! They were a fun at-home spa experience and offered instant skin-tightening.
4. Did women use sunscreen every day?
No. Sunscreen was used mostly at the beach or during outdoor activities, not daily.
5. What ingredients were popular?
Vitamin E, mineral oil, lanolin, and early AHAs were common skincare ingredients.
6. How did women remove heavy ’80s makeup?
Cold cream and creamy cleansers were go-to makeup removers.
7. Was tanning still fashionable?
Yes—tanning beds and sunbathing were very popular, even as sunscreen awareness grew.
8. What made skin look “glowy” in the 1980s?
Moisturized skin with a slightly dewy finish from rich creams was considered glowing.
9. Did women focus on anti-aging skincare?
Yes, the ’80s introduced early anti-aging products featuring AHAs and collagen creams.
10. Are any 1980s skincare trends still used today?
Yes—sheet masks, AHAs, vitamin E oil, and the CTM routine all remain popular, though formulations are now gentler and more advanced.
