Retinol, Vitamin C and sunscreen are your best friends. As well as double cleansing.
I think double cleansing has made the best inroads in to getting my skin glowing, as it gets rids of all makeup at the end of the day, clearing out pores and getting rid of dead skin. I do tart around with products, but follow the basics of a balm/ oil cleanser for the "first" cleanse and then a gel for the "second" cleanse.
I have generally been using a retinol or retinoid every other night from The Ordinary, but have recently been trying Dr Dennis Gross Retinol and Ferulic Acid serum. Bloody expensive, but skin is lovely and smooth in the morning.
Every morning, after cleansing, I use Paula's Choice BHA 2% to exfoliate, which keeps spots at bay, and then I use a Vitamin C serum, topped off with an SPF50 (mineral sunscreen).
I have other things, like masks and various face creams, but it is very hit and miss what I remember to use.
There is loads of information on the web and a lot to get your head around. But I think a few key products really does help.