According to the Internet, in order to have the skin of an angel we need about a twelve step routine to ensure hydration and glow. Without every single product that is sold on the shelf, our skin will age prematurely and look dull and lifeless. It is key to spend every penny we earn on skincare products and technology because skincare has to be extremely complicated and a consistent personal research project.
I hope you know that not only is this false information, it is consumerism working as fast as it possibly can! Yes, exploring different regimes and routines can be fun and exciting, but skincare does not need to consist of a routine that takes over our mornings and nights. There are many of these techniques that do work for some people, but others that provide little to no benefits, and can actually worsen our skin over time.
Serums and creams of all different kinds have been available for years. Products such as hyaluronic acid, retonol, and a variety of toners are often branded to us as necessities despite what skin type we may have. While there are benefits from their usage, our skin may not need the products we tend to put on it. Instead of trying to keep up with the influencers and their extensive routines, we need to prioritize the state of our skin and the goals we are personally trying to achieve.
Rather than scrolling TikTok for our skincare needs, contacting a dermatologist and crafting a plan with them is the first step we should be taking. They are able to assess our skin and the issues we may have, such as acne, enlarged pores, or acne scars, and recommend or prescribe the correct products to target the problem. Using products that are directly recommended by the dermatologist often avoids dangerous side effects or the risk of worsening our skin by using products that do not fit our skin type.
For some, the dermatologist may not be accessible due to financial or insurance reasons. When this may be the case it is always a smart start to go back to the basics. We often forget about the tried and true products and yearn for the new, hot products–but the basics are basics for a reason. Starting with a simple, clean face wash and a moisturizing facial cream creates a basic routine to see how our skin reacts. When attempting to add any products, make sure to research using sources that are supported by doctors and professionals.
Twelve steps turn into only a few when we prioritize our skin and its health rather than aesthetics. Like the old time saying, less is usually more!
