Simplifying Your Skincare Routine: Insights from Dermatologists

In today's digital age, social media platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram are saturated with influencers showcasing complex skincare routines. These often include expensive products such as snail mucin or red-light therapy masks, claiming to hydrate skin or diminish fine lines. However, many dermatologists emphasize that such elaborate regimens are not only unnecessary but may also be counterproductive.

Dr. Kathleen Suozzi, a renowned dermatologist from Yale School of Medicine, highlights the overcomplication of skincare routines driven by social media trends. She notes that the core of effective skincare can be distilled into just three essential steps: a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Overloading on products can lead to skin irritation and redundant exposure to the same ingredients.

Protecting facial skin from the sun is paramount. UV radiation significantly worsens most common skin concerns like wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. Dermatologists, including Dr. Oyetewa Asempa from Baylor College of Medicine, stress that sun protection is the most crucial step to maintain healthy skin.

Regarding anti-aging strategies, products containing retinol or retinoids are beneficial but are best introduced around age 30. These help stimulate collagen production, which decreases with age, leading to wrinkles. For exfoliation, chemical options with alpha- or beta-hydroxy acids are recommended over abrasive scrubs filled with beads, salt, or sugar. These acids effectively remove dead skin cells when paired with diligent sunscreen use.

It's also important to be cautious of trendy skincare products like beef tallow or overhyped light therapy masks. While some devices might provide mild benefits, they are not miracle solutions and require consistent use to see noticeable effects. Expensive products do not necessarily guarantee better results. As Dr. Jordan Lim from Emory University explains, the efficacy of skincare ingredients is often similar across various price points.

In summary, dermatologists advocate for simplicity and protection in skincare routines. Focus on proven essentials—cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection—and avoid falling for marketing hype or unnecessary products that might cause more harm than good.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-dermatologists-skin-routine-simple.html