When skincare trends outpace science, the skin pays the price, notes Dr Shefali Trasi Nerurkar, MBBS, MD (Dermatology), Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Trasi Clinic and La Piel Skin Clinic.
Skincare matters. It helps us look and feel confident. Yet with thousands of products available and a new routine going viral every month, the pursuit of perfect skin has become overwhelming. Even children barely into double digits are experimenting with products their delicate skin doesn’t need.
At my clinic, many patients arrive with a fully preset routine shaped by influencers. It often takes considerable counselling to convince them to step back from products that are unsuitable for their skin. Some listen; others resent advice that contradicts the internet. Too often, parents bring their children to a specialist only once significant damage has been done.
The numbers show just how high the stakes are. The global skincare market was already huge before 2020, at roughly $483 billion. Today, it has surged to an estimated $716 billion. Consumers are spending more time and money than ever on home regimens. E-commerce, supercharged by the pandemic, continues to dominate, and social media overwhelmingly drives purchasing decisions — from sunscreen and night creams to anti-ageing serums and masks.
Trends We See Going Wrong 7–10 step
Korean routines Social media popularised elaborate multi-step routines promising flawless, glass-like skin. In reality, for many, this resulted in irritation, overexfoliation and frustration — alongside considerable cost and effort.
Excessive scrubbing
Scrubs suit oily, acne-prone skin when used carefully. Overuse has led to redness, sensitivity and postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
‘Glass skin’ obsession
Layering multiple products to chase translucent, glowing skin has caused clogged pores and acne — and fuelled unrealistic beauty standards.
DIY home remedies
Natural ingredients have their place, but they are not risk-free. We’ve seen chemical burns and reactions from kitchen concoctions applied without guidance.
Packaging over performance
Attractive jars and tubes lure young consumers, but what matters is formulation, not aesthetics.
Too many actives
Products packed with multiple clinically active ingredients often do little. More isn’t always better.
These trends will come and go — and younger users will keep experimenting. But in the middle of this noise, the smartest path remains the simplest.
What Actually Works
A basic, consistent routine is enough for most skin types:
• A gentle cleanser.
• A suitable moisturiser.
• Sunscreen every morning.
Those with normal to oily skin can exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid clogged pores. One well-chosen active ingredient can deliver far better results than five layered together. Look for well-formulated, pH-balanced and affordable products — expensive rarely means superior.
And when in doubt, ask a dermatologist. Expert guidance can save time, money and skin barrier damage.
Take Care Of Your Skin
Ultimately, skin health does not come from a bottle alone. Our skin mirrors what happens inside the body. Adequate sleep, nutrition, hydration and stress management are as important as topical treatments. Without them, no cream — no matter how hyped — can compensate.
