Is Skincare Your Religion?!

For those steadfastly committed to their skincare routines, convinced of the inherent goodness of the products they use, this discussion is particularly relevant. In a recent conversation with a patient at my clinic, she shared her elaborate skincare routine, emphasizing her unwavering belief in its efficacy. The term "belief" resonated with me, highlighting how skincare practices often resemble religious rituals—a daily adherence to specific products in a prescribed order, underpinned by a strong conviction of enhancing skin health and overall well-being.

 

In the process of developing my book, "Skincare Made Simple," a striking pattern emerged among skincare users. Despite the lack of empirical evidence supporting the claimed benefits, users persistently adhere to their routines with unwavering belief. This raises the question of how skincare companies manage to instill such conviction in consumers, promoting the perceived benefits of their products.

 

Skincare companies employ diverse strategies to persuade consumers of the benefits associated with their products. Celebrity endorsements, professional testimonials, visual representations, and persuasive language all contribute to creating an illusion of efficacy. Additionally, the inclusion of certain ingredients aims to evoke specific sensations or experiences, reinforcing the belief that the product is actively contributing to skin health.

 

Abrasive ingredients, for instance, may create sensations like tightness, itchiness, or a glow—qualities often linked, without scientific basis, to benefits such as skin rejuvenation. Foaming agents, while offering no tangible benefit, create bubbles on the skin, fostering a perception of efficacy. This intricate web of marketing strategies and experiential tactics lays the groundwork for users to incorporate new products into their skincare routines, turning these routines into daily rituals akin to a skincare religion.

 

The harm in this lies in the fact that many skincare products, as elucidated in my previous work, often lack genuine benefits and may even result in a net negative outcome. Users invest time, money, and may encounter side effects for products that provide minimal or no actual benefit to the skin.

 

To break free from this cycle, it is imperative to educate oneself about the fundamental needs of the skin and recognize how it communicates its condition. Understanding which skincare categories and products genuinely benefit the skin allows for a more streamlined and informed approach. It is crucial to avoid falling for generic declarations like "good for you" and instead focus on individual research and consultations with reputable experts.

 

The skincare industry often relies on the emotional aspect of skincare, catering to people's desire to feel good or believe they are doing something valuable. However, it is essential to discern between emotionally driven practices and those rooted in scientific wisdom. Clear understanding of the reasons behind using specific skincare products empowers individuals to make informed choices, steering clear of wasteful and potentially harmful practices.

 

For those entangled in the sunken cost fallacy—reluctant to abandon products due to invested time and money—a strong self-reflection is needed. Walking away from skincare practices that do not offer optimal benefits requires resilience and an acknowledgment of the potential waste of time and resources.

 

In conclusion, a wise skincare regimen involves meticulous consideration of the skin's needs, seeking advice from reputable sources, and eliminating products lacking tangible benefits. Making informed choices and breaking away from generic recommendations foster a healthier and more intentional approach to skincare. Don't fall into the blind faith trap. Keep your skincare rational, cost effective and in service of your skin - rather than you serving skincare.

Thanks for reading and God bless.

Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist