Skincare routines have become increasingly complex with the rise of online influencers and social media platforms like TikTok promoting multiple-step routines for flawless skin. However, many people may not be using these products correctly, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Muneeb Shah. Gen Alpha, or those born after 2010, have even started to show interest in high-quality skincare products, emphasizing the importance of proper application for optimal results.
One of the most common mistakes Shah has observed is individuals purchasing multiple products to solve a single skincare concern without knowing how to properly layer them. This can lead to potential interactions between ingredients that have not been tested for stability, such as retinol. Shah, who recently launched his brand Remedy Skin, highlights the importance of using products with multiple active ingredients that are proven to work well together in the same formula for optimal results.
While combining products may not always harm the skin, they can sometimes neutralize each other’s effects, rendering them useless. Despite the trend of multi-step nighttime skincare routines promising to achieve “glass skin,” Shah recommends using only one or two products in the evening to avoid potential complications. The general rule for layering products is to start with the thinnest formula and work your way up to denser products like creams or balms, with liquid formulas being absorbed first.
The timing of product application is also crucial, especially for ingredients like Vitamin C in the morning or retinol in the evening, which should be applied to dry skin. When the skin is damp, it can increase the absorption of products, which can be beneficial but also potentially irritating for sensitive skin types. Shah recommends applying a moisturizer first and allowing it to dry before using potentially irritating products like retinol or exfoliating acids to minimize the risk of irritation.
With a vast array of skincare products available, choosing the right one depends on individual skin concerns, whether it be fine lines, wrinkles, acne, or dark spots. Shah suggests that stocking up on niacinamide and retinol can address a wide range of skin issues for the average person. Both of these ingredients have been shown to have positive impacts on various skin conditions, making them essential additions to any skincare routine aimed at achieving healthy and youthful-looking skin.
