From simple routines to overwhelming 10-step regimens, skincare has become a complex (and expensive) obsession. But do we really need all these products, or have we just been sold a dream?
Once upon a time, skincare was simple. You splashed water on your face, maybe stole your mom’s face cream, and called it a day. But oh, how times have changed. Now, if you are not following a 12-step routine with ingredients that sound like they belong in a chemistry lab, are you even taking care of your skin?
Did you know that the global skincare industry is expected to reach over $200 billion by 2026? That’s right- what used to be a basic routine has exploded into a multi-billion-dollar empire, convincing us that we need an entire laboratory’s worth of products just to keep our skin “healthy.”
I once went on YouTube, hoping to find a simple skincare routine. Just the basics, nothing fancy. Five minutes in, I was bombarded with terms like double cleansing, slugging, skin cycling, and a horrifying realization- if I wasn’t using at least six products, my skin was apparently doomed. By the time I finished watching, I wasn’t sure if I needed a face wash or a PhD in dermatology. That’s when I realized- when did skincare become this complicated?
Somewhere along the way, a splash of water with some moisturizer has stopped being enough. Now, there’s a serum for everything- hydration, acne, glow, anti-ageing, pore control (do pores even close?). And if your routine doesn’t include a 2000 rupees essence and a toner infused with heavenly botanicals, are you even trying? Skincare went from a basic necessity to an elaborate ritual, and honestly, keeping up feels like a full-time job.
The Rise of Skincare Overload
Enter the era of Korean skincare, where “glassy skin” became the ultimate goal and “double cleansing” wasn’t just a suggestion, it was a rule. Suddenly, there was a step for everything. Cleansing oil, foam cleanser, exfoliator, toner, essence, serums, ampoules, moisturizers, eye cream, sunscreen, and let’s not forget the weekly face masks and spot treatments. Some people swear by layering multiple hydrating products in a technique called skin flooding, while others slather their face in petroleum jelly overnight, aka slugging. By the time you are done, it’s already time for bed.
I still remember the first time I attempted a seven-step routine. I sat in front of my mirror, carefully layering each product like I was some kind of skincare artist. By the last step, my face was so sticky that I couldn’t take it anymore. I ended up washing everything off, slathering on just my moisturizer, and finally going to sleep.
But honestly, is all of this even necessary? Does our skin need 17 different layers to function, or have we just been completely influenced? Experts argue that overloading your skin with too many active ingredients can do more harm than good. Refer to this article to learn about Skin minimalism.
Social Media’s Skincare Obsession
Scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, you’d think Clear Skin is just one viral product away. Every other day, there’s a new “life-changing” serum, and if you are not religiously using a jade roller or practising gua-sha every night, are you even doing skincare right? But here’s the catch- most of these influencers aren’t dermatologists. They are just like us- experimenting with random products, hoping for a miracle, and occasionally dealing with the aftermath of a bad decision.
I remember the time I fell for a so-called “holy grail” product hyped up by a beauty guru. She swore it would clear my acne, shrink my pores, and maybe even change my life. Two days later, my skin erupted like a science experiment gone wrong, with acne and rashes all over my face, and I had to walk around pretending I meant to look like a tomato.
Here’s an interesting read related to “Influence of Social Media on Skincare” that you might like.
The DIY Disaster Phase
Then, of course, there was the DIY era. Influencers swore that kitchen ingredients were the answer to all skincare wonders. I’ll never forget the time I tried the lemon juice and sugar scrub hack to “naturally exfoliate.” Not only did my face burn, but I also ended up with redness that lasted for days. Turns out, lemon juice on your face is a terrible idea. Also, a discovery- Vitamin C doesn’t suit me.
Skincare Panic: How Brands Sell Fear
Every other day, there’s a new post screaming about something that could ruin your skin. “Not wearing sunscreen indoors? Congrats, you are ageing at lightning speed!” “Using the wrong cleanser? Might as well be scrubbing with dish soap!”
It’s exhausting. At one point, I got so paranoid about sun damage that I started reapplying sunscreen every two hours, convinced I was saving my skin. The result? A greasy face, five new pimples, and the funniest part- I barely even go outside.
But the reason we’ve all spiralled into the never-ending skincare abyss? Fear. The beauty industry is a mastermind at making us panic. Brands have mastered the art of convincing us that if we are skipping even one step from our skincare routine, we are doomed.
Think about it. One day, you are happily living your life, blissfully unaware of “early signs of ageing.” The next, a perfectly lit skincare ad pops up, telling you that your laugh lines are actually wrinkles in the making, and if you don’t act now, you might as well start Googling anti-ageing treatments. Suddenly, you are panic-buying a retinol serum that costs more than your electricity bill.
It’s all consumer psychology at its finest. These brands don’t just sell products; they sell insecurities. Acne? You need a clarifying serum. Hyperpigmentation? Here’s a brightening essence. Pores? Oh no, pores are the enemy- get a pore-minimizing toner! They make sure that for every little imperfection (which, by the way, is totally normal), there’s a new must-have product to “fix” it. And just when you think you’ve built the perfect routine, a new “game-changing” ingredient drops, and boom- you are back to square one.
The Budget Crisis
Another minor, teeny-tiny issue? Skincare is expensive. Some of these “must-have” products cost more than my monthly groceries. And heaven forbid you try to be responsible and stick to a budget because then, the guilt kicks in. “Oh, you are only using a basic moisturizer? That’s why your skin isn’t thriving.” Excuse me, but I need money for food, not just fancy creams!
Once, I confidently walked into a skincare store, determined to buy just a cleanser. Just a cleanser. Fifteen minutes later, the sales assistant had convinced me I also needed a toner and a serum, because apparently, my skin was ready to pop ten more pimples. My wallet pleaded to me.
Is More Always Better?
Here’s a wild thought- maybe we don’t need a billion products. Maybe our skin was fine before we started overwhelming it with 14 different activities. Skincare should be about what works for you, not what’s trending. Some people thrive on multi-step routines, others just need a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. And that’s okay!
Besides, have you ever noticed how skincare advice contradicts itself? One day, people are screaming about the wonders of coconut oil. The next, it’s “If you put that on your face, prepare for breakouts from hell.” And let’s not even get started on LED masks. Do they help with acne and collagen? Maybe. Do they make you look like a sci-fi villain? Absolutely.
The Impact on Self-Esteem and Confidence
Beyond the endless product recommendations, the beauty industry has fueled an unrealistic standard of perfection. Instead of seeing skincare as a way to nourish and care for our skin, it has become a tool for self-criticism. We’ve been conditioned to believe that smooth, flawless skin equals self-worth; anything less is a personal failure. The constant comparison to airbrushed, filtered images makes us hyper-aware of our imperfections, leaving us feeling inadequate.
But the truth is, real skin has texture, pores, and the occasional blemish- there’s nothing wrong with that. True confidence comes from embracing our natural skin, not from endlessly chasing an impossible beauty ideal.
The Grand Realization
After jumping from routine to routine and spending way too much on products I barely used, I came to a life-changing conclusion- I don’t need to overcomplicate skincare. Most of us don’t. A simple, efficacious routine that fits your skin type (and your wallet) is all you need.
So, What’s the Solution?
If you’re tired of the skincare madness but still want to take care of your skin, here’s a minimal, effective routine that works for almost everyone:
- Cleanser– A gentle face wash to remove dirt and oil.
- Moisturizer– Keeps your skin hydrated and healthy.
- Sunscreen– Protects your skin from sun damage (yes, even indoors!).
Some extra (but optional) steps depending on your skin concerns:
- Exfoliation (once or twice a week) – Helps with dullness and clogged pores.
- Serums (only if necessary) – Vitamin C for brightening, niacinamide for oil control, or hyaluronic acid for hydration.
- Lip balm and hand cream – Because skincare isn’t just about the face!
And most importantly- hydrate, eat well, and get enough sleep. No product can fix a lifestyle that neglects basic self-care.
So, the next time an influencer tells you to buy an overpriced snail mucin-infused, diamond-dust exfoliating essence, pause. Take a deep breath. And maybe just drink some water instead. Your skin (and your bank account) will thank you!
At the end of the day, skincare shouldn’t feel like a never-ending science project or a financial burden. It’s supposed to be simple- something that makes you feel good, not insecure. Whether you love a multi-step ritual or prefer sticking to the basics, the only right routine is the one that works for you.
So, take a moment and ask yourself- are you buying products because your skin needs them, or because social media told you to? Do your research, listen to your skin (not just viral trends), and remember- your face is not a chemistry experiment.
Stay glowing, stay real, and most importantly- stay confident in the skin you are in!