More Is Not Always Best: Simplify Your Skincare Routine
I've been talking a lot about routines and building a skincare practice lately. It seems as though a lot of people are feeling overwhelmed and unclear about their skincare game (either where to start or what do add). I talked about the basics of skincare in this post and about building a more complete routine on this post. However, I believe that it doesn't matter what "level" of skincare you're in. If you're not enjoying what you're doing and are not consistent with it, then nothing really matters.
To stay consistent I find that most people need a simple and short routine. If thinking about doing your routine makes you feel tired and like it's going to take forever, then it's not sustainable and thus not worth it. Plus, you're more likely to do it less often and so the results will not be optimal.
The best skincare routine is the one you actually do.
The problem with single-ingredient products: 10-step routines
We live in an era where a lot of information is available. This can be a good thing, but it does have its consequences. A big trend right now is to have single-ingredient products (like what you find with The Ordinary). But this is often counterproductive. You end up with a routine that's lengthy (+ there's a risk for irritation). The value of well-formulated products is that you can target your concerns with one formula and be done. It can be fun to play chemist but it's not fun to suffer irritation.
I'm a big advocate of empowering you with knowledge and information, and I think that it's very valuable as a consumer to know what you're using and why. However, I personally find it interesting and feel passionate about the topic. For most of you, you're simply looking for a good product that will get the job done. There's not much need for everyone to be an expert (again, unless you're interested and passionate about it). Instead, focus your attention on what does ignite you and fills you up and spend your time doing that (reading, being with loved ones, dancing, cooking, etc).
Companies like The Ordinary and The Inkey List have been leaders in educating consumers about ingredients and products. Social media also has helped in bringing a lot of awareness to consumers. But again, the problem is when you divide all your ingredients into different products, you end up with a 10-step routine instead of four. The beauty of skincare chemistry and professional formulators is that they can make amazing products that combine different ingredients so that you don't need that many steps in your routine and still achieve results.
But let me be clear: I don’t think there’s anything wrong with either of these companies. In fact, I love that they make skincare accesible and that they’ve made consumers more conscious of their skin health. And they certainly have good products. All I’m saying is that if you have one product with different ingredients that targets several of your skin concerns, that’s good enough.
You don’t need 10-step routines!
But shouldn’t I be using…?
I get asked all the time "should I incorporate X product" or whether "I should be using Y ingredient." Skincare is so unique and personal that any answer to these questions is very hard to generalize. Honestly, the only product that I would say everyone must absolutely use, is sunscreen (any chance to remind you to wear SPF, right?).
One of the biggest mistakes people make in terms of skincare is thinking that they need more: more products, higher percentages of actives, more exfoliation, etc. However, the skin can get irritated easily and in that case, simplifying is actually a better practice.
Most dermatologists and experienced estheticians actually advocate for a simpler routine and go back to the basics and what's been proven to work (which might vary depending on your unique concerns, and that’s why is always good practice to consult with an expert.
But hey, if having a 10-step routine is your thing, I'm not saying that's wrong. But it's not necessary or the end goal for most!
There’s no miracle
Lastly, a reminder that topical skincare is not magic. There's a lot you can do and it can certainly improve the appearance and diminish certain conditions. But don't expect a miracle. Instead, I try to convey to my clients that it's important to invest in ourselves spiritually and mentally. I know we're going against what societal norms are telling us we're supposed to look and how we're supposed to age a specific way, but none of that is real. I'm not telling you to stop buying products, but also invest in your mental health. Figure out what really fills you up and nourishes you and spend time with that.