Scroll through TikTok or Instagram and you’ll find someone layering ten different products, talking about snail mucin, red-light masks, or “glass skin” routines. It looks impressive — but according to dermatologists, it’s completely unnecessary. (Associated Press)
The Problem With Skincare Trends
Social media has turned everyone into a self-proclaimed skincare expert. Influencers push whatever product or ingredient is trending that week, often without any real understanding of how skin works. As Yale dermatologist Dr. Kathleen Suozzi puts it, “Skincare regimens have become way overcomplicated.”
Not only are many of these viral products redundant, but some can actually irritate your skin or make it worse. Using too many actives — exfoliants, acids, or retinol — can strip your skin barrier, leading to dryness, redness, and breakouts.
The Simple Routine That Actually Works
Here’s the truth: your skin doesn’t need 10 steps to be healthy. It needs three.
- A gentle cleanser – something that removes dirt, sweat, and oil without stripping your skin.
- A moisturizer – to lock in hydration and keep your barrier balanced.
- A sunscreen (SPF 30+) – to protect against 90% of skin concerns caused or worsened by UV damage.
That’s it. Whether your skin is oily, dry, or combination, these three steps are the foundation. Everything else is optional.
When to Add Extras
If you’re dealing with acne, dark spots, or early signs of aging, some targeted products — like chemical exfoliants (AHA/BHA) or retinol — can help. But they’re not for everyone, and timing matters. Dermatologists recommend holding off on retinol until around your 30s, when your skin’s natural collagen production slows.
Even then, start slow. One active ingredient at a time, and always with sunscreen.
Trends to Skip
Some of the most viral skincare “hacks” are the ones experts warn against:
- Beef tallow (yes, cow fat): not designed for human skin, and can clog pores.
- Physical scrubs with beads or salts: too harsh for facial skin.
- Overpriced creams: price ≠ performance. The same ingredients often appear in a cheaper product and a $300 one.
As Dr. Jordan Lim from Emory University says, “Price does not equal efficacy.”
Why Simple Wins
Skincare doesn’t need to be complicated — it just needs to be consistent. A clean face, a solid moisturizer, and SPF every day will take you farther than any trendy routine you see online.
At Imperial Scruff, we believe in cutting through the noise. Check out our simple, effective basics here.
