This Will Change Your Skincare Forever: The Truth About Skincare

In the pursuit of better skin, many consumers are perplexed by the contradictory advice they receive. They often hear glowing reviews about certain products that promise great results, yet they personally fail to see those outcomes. This discrepancy is compounded by the fact that much of this guidance comes from highly qualified individuals, including dermatologists. However, the problem lies in the fundamental elements overlooked by much online advice.

One critical oversight is the failure to consider individual skin needs. Many recommendations are broad and do not account for the unique characteristics of each person’s skin. It is a hard cold fact that the influencer making the recommendations, no matter how qualified they are, cannot possibly know the condition of your skin or understand its needs. This lack of personalized advice can lead to the use of products that actually harm the skin, such as abrasive cleansers that disrupt the skin barrier. The concept of a "moisturizing cleanser," for example, loses credibility when it removes essential skin components.

Moreover, a significant influence on online advice comes from the skincare industry itself. Skincare companies are primarily motivated by profit, which sometimes means promoting complex skincare routines. These routines may include products that worsen initial skin issues - such as abrasives (cleansers, soaps, scrubs, etc.), followed by products that claim to resolve them (moisturizers.) This approach perpetuates a cycle of dependency rather than delivering genuine solutions, and often constitutes a “fireman arson”: intentionally setting fires that they later respond to and attempt to extinguish.

Another aspect often overlooked is the composition of skincare products. Despite claims of efficacy, most ingredients serve little purpose beyond enhancing the product’s appeal. Additives like fragrance, colorants, and preservatives contribute minimally, do not contribute or may actually undermine the actual benefits promised by the product.

When making decisions about skincare, it is crucial to prioritize understanding your skin’s specific needs. Identify the primary concern you wish to address and choose a product known for effectively targeting that issue. Consistency is key; switching between products can disrupt your skin’s balance and impede progress. Therefore, avoid product rotation.

In summary, be discerning when bombarded with skincare products and advice. Focus on understanding your skin and selecting products that genuinely support its health. By prioritizing your skin’s needs over marketing claims, you empower yourself to make informed decisions that lead to healthier skin.

Thanks for reading and God bless.

Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist