Gen Z skincare fanatics are finding that their commitment to their skincare routines is impacting their romantic relationships. Many enthusiasts are participating in the social media trend known as the “morning shed,” which involves using multiple products, hair rollers, and even mouth guards to maximize beauty sleep. This dedication means sacrificing late-night cuddling for the sake of waking up looking hotter. Despite the impact on their relationships, many individuals find the trade-off worth it.
For some individuals, such as a 24-year-old named Daisy, their skincare routine is non-negotiable, even if it means sacrificing intimate moments with their partners. Daisy mentioned that her boyfriend often gets annoyed with her for having to spend a minimum of 20 minutes cleansing her face and applying various products after sex, which leaves no time for cuddling. The lack of romantic moments before falling asleep can lead to arguments in the morning, but for Daisy, the pursuit of beauty is more important.
The focus on skincare and beauty routines has led to a sex recession among Gen Z, with some individuals prioritizing their appearance over romantic relationships. Celebrities have even started promoting celibacy as a positive lifestyle choice. Beauty critic Jessica DeFino argued that assuming morning shedders aren’t having sex because of their elaborate routines is reductive, as sex and attraction exist beyond conventional notions of beauty. For some, becoming beautiful is deemed more important than engaging in sexual relationships or falling in love.
Many Gen Z individuals are so devoted to their skincare routines that they may sacrifice spending the night with a partner if it means compromising their skincare habits. For example, one acne-prone TikTok user mentioned that dirty pillowcases can trigger breakouts, leading them to avoid certain intimate situations. Others expressed paranoia about sleeping in makeup or using someone else’s pillowcases. This level of dedication to skincare can sometimes override the desire for intimacy, as seen through the experiences shared by users on social media platforms like TikTok.
Some individuals, such as Holly, even hide their extensive skincare routines from romantic partners in the early stages of dating. Holly refused to remove her makeup while sleeping over at her partner’s house because she didn’t want to reveal her intensive skincare regimen. However, once she felt more comfortable in the relationship, she shared her nightly routine, viewing it as a new form of intimacy. Despite initial hesitation, Holly found that her partner still found her attractive during vulnerable moments, reinforcing the idea that true beauty is about more than just appearance.
Overall, the rise of the morning shed trend among Gen Z skincare enthusiasts has sparked discussions on the intersection of beauty, intimacy, and personal care. While some individuals prioritize their skincare routines over romantic relationships, others find ways to balance both aspects of their lives. The trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards prioritizing self-care and personal grooming, creating new norms around beauty standards and intimacy in the digital age. Ultimately, the morning shed trend highlights the complexity of modern relationships and the various ways individuals navigate self-expression, beauty ideals, and personal connections.
