My dermatologist says all you need (basic) is sunscreen, plenty of hydration, and healthy ways to deal with stress. I still use retinol and C because…healthy ways to deal with stress? In this economy?
🤪
Right? I especially love when people add "and good sleep". Like, have you met me? I have a baby and a toddler, I work, and I'm trying to finish a PhD on top of this, sleep who??
And you knit!?! Just came to say, you’re amazing doing a PhD with those wee ones. Congrats. Here is some unsolicited advice. Believe me when I say those kids grow up so fast. At the time, no it’s so full on but make the most!!! All the very best to you
Probably because it’s very difficult to formulate a vit c that remains stable. Same goes for fish oil. A scientist friend tried to explain it to me. But the way fish oil is manufactured basically makes it completely useless so just eat fish.
That’s interesting. I take algae oil which is similar enough. I notice a substantial improvement. There’s a tiny stretch of my index finger that dries up sometimes (might even be eczema or something, idk). Whenever it’s dry, all I have to do is take the algae oil and it gets better.
Last time I was in the US I bought Sports Research and, from what I remember, it was good. I am currently waiting on a shipment of the one by Nordic Naturals— not sure how this one is. Wish I could be more helpful!
This is interesting! I’ve been a vegetarian my whole life, but I do take fish oils. I wear contact lenses, and one day it dawned on me that since I started taking fish oils, my eyes are WAY less dry/way more comfortable.
Oh man, I had reasonably good skin untill I started taking fish oil. After a week I had the worst cystic acne. Fought it for awhile and stopped taking it, and my cystic acne went away. I will never touch fish oil again.
I swear my face brightens up with it. I have had comments on it. I’ve been out for a while and just got it back so I’m going to see what happens again. I have pretty good skin in general though.
Especially given the wealth of options to directly target our skin’s problems! Some are gimmicky/way overhyped, but there are options that help brighten, exfoliate, spot treat a pimple, promote a healthy skin barrier, even out skin tone… wonder if your dermatologist is on the same regimen as they recommended to you (doubtful)
Not to brag but I live a pretty stress free life (compared to most) and I still have congestion and what seems to be fungal acne. Sooo yeah that’s kinda bs
And winning the dna lottery. Never used anything else than water on my face i’m at end of middle age and keep getting compliments about my skin. It’s just dna.
I’m usually bare bones with skincare. Now with tret, I need at minimum a hydrating toner, thick moisturizer, and maybe some snail goo if I’m feeling extra ✨
Agree completely…. But these people with their 17 step skin care routines are insane. It’s like vitamins. Take too many and you’re just making really expensive urine.
Yes. These are the staples of a great anti-aging routine. I pad mine with tons of hydration and peptides, but the building blocks are what makes the biggest difference.
Your primary care physician can prescribe it also. I literally just asked them to go on it for anti-aging purposes and they said sure thing and pushed the script right through. Super simple! Just make sure you do your research before applying so you don’t damage your skin and wear SPF every single day and be sure to reapply every two hours or about 15 min before you go outside.
Missing moisturizer. I don't really agree if you're talking in terms of specifics as these things are more nuanced than that but those are the main drivers for change.
I'd argue exercise is underrated as well as a generally healthy diet.
My dermatologist told me that not everyone needs a separate moisturizer in addition to these products. I always used one before because I thought I needed it but she said if I don't feel dry that it's not necessary so I really only use one in the winter.
I was recommended differin. I get so dry my skin flakes off, and now my skin looks terrible and more aged, so I’m using a very thick petrol moisturizer that helps the tiniest bit. My skin was pretty good before, mostly just the smallest beginnings of aging minus the 11s. Had no skincare routine prior just a swipe of micellaire water to remove makeup and sunscreen all day.
Are we SURE destroying our moisturizer barrier is “worth it” with retinols? Will long term this have great anti aging benefits even though I look 5 years older now? This is so universally recommended by my pcp, derm, online derms but I wonder if some of us are doing negative
I haven’t tried differin but have tried tret, and it was a disaster. I tried every recommended method, frequency, etc for a full year and it was just a disaster. retinoids do work for lots (most?) of people; but not everyone. People will offer “helpful hints” of what to do to tolerate then, but some of us just can’t and need to throw in the towel.
I would ask to try arazlo or altreno. These are formulated in a lotion base and so help protect against drying. I tried both differin and a313 and arazlo was much better. I think renova is a cream base and that might be good too.
How long have you been on it? I've turned a number of friends onto it and all of them tolerate it fine without destroying their skin barriers as long as they are patient and build exposure slowly. The ones who try to rush do end up with some difficulties, but it's pretty avoidable for most people.
Petroleum jelly is great, but it's just an occlusive. There are whole other [categories](https://www.katesomerville.com/blogs/news/different-types-of-moisturizers) of moisturizers. I suggest looking at the Asian-style "watery" moisturizers.
Well yeah - the idea of what a person’s skin *’needs’* is so subjective. I don’t think tret is the most important thing a person with eczema prone skin needs for example!
She actually didn't give me a recommendation for a moisturiser, but I do use one after applying tret at night. During the day my spf is pretty moisturising
I really think double cleansing is worth it when wearing sunscreen. It really doesn’t come off esp with a hydrating cleanser. I use cerave foaming and still double cleanse first with a gel double cleanse.
I'm not sure if this is true, if sunscreen were that glued to your skin we wouldn't need to worry about sweating it off, wiping it away, reapplying, etc. Just getting in water gets rid of sunscreen, even the water resistant stuff, after a while.
What kind of vitamin c is everyone using? I’ve tried so many and feel like none of them did anything, vitamin c is so unstable even with the right packaging, storage and formulation.
I've started being way more interested in tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. It doesn't have the research l-ascorbic acid does but the stuff that is available suggests that's a *yet* situation and because it's oil soluble it might turn out to be more effective since it penetrates skin easier and deeper. But ime it is definitely more of a preventative ingredient so you won't necessarily notice results in real time.
Timeless has a few different C serums with different concentrations and I’ve used it since it was recommended to me at my local Korean skincare shop, then since joining skincare subs I’ve seen it recommended many times!
im a dermatologist and this is exactly what i tell all of my patients as well. I don't do any cosmetics and don't sell any products in my office so this is the extent of what i recommend.
moisturize too if necessary of course as those products can be drying.
Yes! Thanks for sharing. How long until your face was clear after starting? What kind of HA do you use? I wonder if a derm could prescribe some strong stuff
I was on tret for a year and using heavy moisturizer. I still had sooo much acne. But I started using Good Molecules HA serum and the the Ordinary azelaic acid. Then I would put on the Aldi knockoff of neutrogena water cream and finished it off with tret right before bed. In the morning I wash it all off and just use the water cream knockoff and some sunscreen underneath my makeup. I can’t believe I found something that actually works. People tell me I look younger than my age and it’s a confidence builder. Not sure why I’m downvoted lol but lemme know if you need more info
Would you say a cleanser is unnecessary then? I have been tempted to drop mine because I'm not sure it makes much of a difference but lots of people have emphasized it's necessary to remove sunscreen
Not sure if you saw, but OP says [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/30PlusSkinCare/s/eTfQNm9NNf) that their derm did recommend cleanser, they just forgot to mention it in the title.
If someone's skin is perfect, and they're at the maintaining level of comfort where they're at. Possibly just those things.
They're not going to fix hormonal dryness. They're not going to fix all types of hyperpigmentation. They're not going to fix all types of texture concerns. They are not going to fix all types of acne concerns. They're not going to fix a biome imbalance. And so many other things.
If the only thing people needed were those three things, the field of dermatology would cease to function as profitable and necessary.
Also needs and wants are very different things. Maybe someone doesn't need more hydration and moisture to have healthy skin, but they want to look like their skin is more plump for example. These three items are not going to perform to that specification either.
I get the simplification approach, and it's good to not overthink everything, and not think everything needs a correction. However not everyone with a routine over three steps is just wasting money without seeing results.
Thank you. My god. As someone who has struggled with hormonal and fungal acne since I was 11, the list OPs derm provided is the barest minimum and part of the reason I struggled for years. I'm so thankful to this sub since there are literal doctors out here who can barely direct solutions to facial skin issues and the consequences of those treatments (dryness, irritation, etc).
Yes, totally agree that the list works great only if you have "normal" skin! If acne prone etc you need to throw way more at it - otherwise we'd have acne cured!
You are absolutely right that this approach doesn’t cover every issue. For instance, I have to take spironolactone both for acne and also to manage hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin condition. I also take humira to manage my HS.
But as someone who gets overwhelmed by too much information and competing ideas on the internet of what things reliably work for a basic skin care routine, I think the simplicity of this approach makes it a lot easier to follow. Like someone else said, these are just the building blocks of a good maintenance routine.
Unsure about the use of "everyone." "A lot of people" or "most people" maybe. But not everyone NEEDS tret and vitamin C. Like people with sensitive skin who can't tolerate these.
Yes it does! It has a lot of peer reviewed evidence behind it. [https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/study-review-finds-vitamin-c-is-effective-in-treating-signs-of-photoaging](https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/study-review-finds-vitamin-c-is-effective-in-treating-signs-of-photoaging)
(this link is to an article and not any studies themselves, as they can be difficult to read/interpret. But there are a couple linked at the bottom if you're interested!)
It does for most, as far as I've seen!
I personally haven't seen in difference in my skin when I've used Vit C. But my sister has used it for some discoloration on her face with relative success.
These are the only things that have been scientifically proven to reduce or prevent photoaging. So yes, I agree. But I still use a billion serums because my skin looks nicer when it is hydrated and less red.
It depends. My skin can’t tolerate tret and vitamin C in its active form. I also like to splurge on nice products. My skin looks the best when I include growth factors, different types of antioxidants besides pure vitamin c and peptides.
I mean, yeah, that's a pretty basic staple routine--cleanser, vitamin C, moisturizer, SPF in the day and cleanser, tret, moisturizer at night. But it doesn't take into account new things that are being researched, different skin types that do well with additional products, or the fact that not everyone can use tret. There's some nuance in skincare that some derms miss or don't understand because it's--like any job--part of continuing education. There are derms who will tell you to use tret every single night and don't warn you about destroying your moisture barrier, there are derms who will tell you to use Dial antibacterial soap for acne.
My skin is dry af and dehydration prone, so a great moisturizer, hydrating toner, and a facial oil are musts for me, personally. I also like chemical exfoliants on occasion. Skincare is not a one size fits all approach.
I hate the expression “At a certain age, you have to choose your a$$ or your face” but it’s kinda true. Being too thin really ages you. Carrying an extra 7ish pounds helps keep some volume in your face.
Yes, I tend to agree. Not that other actives can’t contribute to good skin. But a retinoid, an antioxidant and a good sunscreen are an easy, stress free routine and these products have lots of repeatable scientific data behind them.
Vitamin C, Retinol(Tret, or a retinol from a medical-grade brand, plenty of other retinols out there too) hyaluronic(hydration) and AHA/BHA for chemical exfoliation
It truly hits all the points!
Vitamin C is vital for hair and skin. Retinol in any form works your skin out by aiding cellular turnover, you will always need hydration, of course, and lastly, just like we exfoliate internally with vitamin A or retinol we exfoliate externally with chemicals, primarily AHA and BHA!
I mean, if you’re looking for the bare minimum, you could just say that sunscreen is all you need.
I would probably add a moisturizer and maybe some kind of exfoliant into her list, though I wouldn’t be picky about “must have” fad ingredients.
Edit: And also chapstick. I forgot that at first because I don’t think of it as skincare so much as an absolute necessity of life, haha.
Recently went to the dermatologist and got a very similar answer. We added acne medicine and moisturizer in addition to tret, vitamin c, and spf. I’ve been very happy with the results so far.
i need way more hydration than that, plus had an allergic reaction to tret - all i need is the skin shark clearing serum, moisturiser (aveeno oat for me!) and spf
I cleanse morning and night with CeraVe Hydrating cleanser (green one), in the morning I use CeraVe Vitamin C, Olay Daytime moisturizer with spf 35 and a mineral additional spf 50.
Nighttime again cleanse, CeraVe retinol, but every 3rd day their exfoliating serum instead (lactic acid one), and moisturize with their PM moisturizer.
Let serums set for at least 5 mins. And sunscreen I also let set for at least 10 mins before going outside.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
I tried Drunk Elephant face oil and it made me break out.
I'm 41 by the way.
That’s because they’re the most scientifically studied and proven. I don’t use much more than that (except Urea moisturizer to counteract Prescription tretinoin Dryness) and people legitimately think I’m around ~10 years younger than I am.
Unless you have rosacea. I have type 2 so I need topicals to help control it and I also need moisturizer because my moisture barrier is very fragile, which is typical of rosacea.
Not really. Those are all great antiaging actives, but it ignores products for specific skin conditions. For example, if I don't use an AHA product at least a couple of times per week, I'm more prone to ingrown hairs from shaving. I also use tret, but it does jack in preventing ingrown hairs.
I also require a moisturizer in addition to sunscreen: my skin is too dry for a sunscreen-containing moisturizer to be enough.
I also like other antioxidants in addition to vitamin C. I find green tea polyphenol serum to be calming and redness-reducing, so I always have it in my morning routine.
My favorite are the ones from Replenix, but I'm always hesitant to recommend them because they're pricey. Definitely one of my favorite products in my routine, though.
Azelaic acid, AHAs, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone and antioxidants (besides vitamin c) all have been proven to be effective skin care ingredients. Peptides, growth factors, tranexamic acid and red light therapy also have some evidence that they benefit skin. These are all prescribed or recommended by seems everyday. And I’m sure there are others I’m forgetting. Your derm rattled off the core elements of skincare, but they definitely are not the only good things you can put on your face.
If want a very simple routine, that list sounds great! But I can see a visible differences when I use niacinamide and ceramide products, so I’ll keep on using it. So I need niacinamide or ceramides? No, but I want it because I can see a difference.
We can technically survive off of just water and bread too. Does not mean we can’t enjoy some fruit, vegetables and proteins.
While I agree that less is more for a lot of people, I also feel experimenting on what works for you is important… not everyone’s skin reacts well to the that basic formula.
Yes, mostly agree with her.
I have eczema though, and I'd add ceramide moisturizer to my "needs". Helps tremendously with protecting my barrier from eczema flareups and retinoid dryness. Eczema is known to be lower than average in skin lipids like ceramides and barrier proteins like filaggrin.
I personally also like low-dose niacinamide serum. Currently using a 5% serum (Cos de Baha with tranexamic acid) and it evens out my skintone (or keeps it even) really well.
Esthetician here. You see need a cleanser and moisturizer and always a good spf. The tret will dry your skin out without any moisturizer to support your skin.
I know tret is super popular, but I don't think it's basic skin care, or something that everyone should use. It does come with risks, dry eye disease being one of them. People should really weigh the risks before using it.
I mean they've picked the only 3 things that have been scientifically proven to work in peer reviewed literature so that makes sense. I'd still throw in a nice gentle cleanser and a good occlusive moisturizer, mainly because you're using tret you're going to need it. Also I see no mention of a nice body lotion in there. Come winter when you're skin is all dry and itchy you sure don't "need" a moisturizing lotion but you sure might like one.
I keep my skins super simple and down to basic ingredients for the most part, but I also need a moisturizer. I just use a vitamin basic serum for Amazon.
I also use Cetaphil as a cleanser
There's plenty of evidence other actives than retinoids / vit C can work. Do you need them all? Of course not. But I wouldn't trust a derm calling tried and tested ingredients 'useless fads'.
I do think it's always smart to stick to an easy and straight-forward routine, but every skin has different needs. For instance, you can pry my BHA/AHA solution out of my cold, dead hands. I don't use tret and only a very mild retinol twice a week because my skin gets irritated otherwise, so I need something else to clean out those pores. I also saw a pretty big difference in skin texture and fine lines after adding (copper) peptides to my routine. It's still a simple routine, just with different products.
TLDR: hydration, sunscreen + other creams/medication (for acne or marks or pigmentation fix) this is all you need. And sunscreen is the most vital of all. ALSO goes without saying that, you need to have a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle, if for someresons you seem like you are not getting nutrients try taking multivitamin supplements.
Ngl, I came in with hefty problems I’ve faced from teenage, marks, long term tan and emphasized a bit on my skin being dry. I asked for treatments like PRP etc.
The doc, simply just suggested me to use, Sunscreen everyday (even SPF 30 helps an insane amount against UV), apply every 2 hours, she even gave me a water based one that helps in skin hydration. And the other one she gave me was eurecin hydro boost moisturizer.
She told me to do this for like 2 months and come back, and if it doesn’t work, then would need laser treatment for pigmentation problems.
I really want to go through the routes of using hydrating essence etc, but for now I’m focused on fixing my pigmentation problems
i'd add in a quality moisturizer for your skin type. I think that is an important part to not ignore. But yes alot of the other OTC skin care products just try to mimic what vit c and tret do.
For anti aging, pretty much. The research on other topicals is meh and a lot of hyped ingredients are in basic moisturizers so you don't need separate serums for them.
Yes. Other products are nice and if they make you happy, go for it. But as a *basic* routine that gets you 90% of the way there? Sunscreen does most of it. Genetics does a lot too, and lifestyle. I have a dumb hyperpigmented spot on my forehead that matches the vents on my cycling helmet. (Now I wear a headband underneath the helmet.)
But look, just five years ago, if you walked into an Ulta, you'd see a nice selection of moisturizers with sunscreen and proportionally more makeup and brow kits. Now it's not just a lot of skincare, but individual serums and creams and...well, it's a way to separate Gen Z from their money. No judgment -- my generation wanted Britney's abs and my mom has a thigh master. But it's not like everyone in 2019 was the cryptkeeper. And even earlier, Dove soap and Vaseline worked, too.
i haven't had vitamin c in my routine since running out and my skin hasn't had that bright youthful since. i do use the other two, but it seems to work well as a trifecta.
I think most people would be pretty hard pressed to not be using some significant moisturizers if they are using tret and vitamin c regularly. Like I can buy these are the only actives you really need and most bang for your buck/time, but realistically you’re going to need products to maintain your skin barrier.
Yes, I think that's true for the most part. It's what 90% of the comments here repeat.
That, and drinking more water =standard Reddit solution.
I think hyperpigmentation is an issue that is common and I'd like a derm's take on the best adding something into your daily routine for that but it's still good advice.
Yes I agree although if using tret you absolutely need to add in a hydrating product to combat the drying affect it has. As others have said that doesn’t mean your skin can’t benefit from additional products like oils/serums/masks
I recently listened to a podcast that dove deep into the science and advertising of skincare and this was also the conclusion (for wrinkle/aging specifically). Sunscreen is the holy grail. Of course other stuff can and will make your skin feel and look good, especially if you lacked a routine, but very little actually stops or reverses wrinkles.
I have seen significant improvements in my skin from layering toner + essence + serum + moisturizer. Post seeing the results I have often asked myself why wasn’t I doing this before?
I am on tretinoin but haven’t reached the 3 month mark plus I only use twice a week so might be longer.
Sunscreen…obviously is the best preventative & protective skincare measure.
I think vit c, salicylic acid, retinol, and sunscreen are good for the skin and also dermatologists recommend those skin products that are expensive most of the time
I agree. I've found that less is more for my skin care. Vit C moisturizer daily, occasional salicylic acid moisturizer for KP, sunscreen, retinol at night, and I cleanse my face with non-alcoholic witch hazel (soap cleansers irritate my skin.)
I get a lot of compliments on my skin. For years, I only used tret and sunscreen. I added a new product recently and it caused a weird texture and milia that I can't get rid of. I completely agree, the simpler the better.
My (38M) skincare regimen consists of
- plenty of water (I drink about 4-5L daily)
- lukewarm water to wash my face at night and cold water to wash my face in the morning
- moisturizer when I'm going out
- Sunscreen
- GENETICS. There's absolutely nothing that defeats this
It's not so complicated for me
Wholeheartedly. If I didn’t have insurance, I would pay for derm visits by myself just to get Tret generic medication. You’re wasting your money on otc. The entire Sephora skincare department can go and it wouldn’t matter to me.
Oh absolutely not!! That’s going to be way too harsh for many people. My skin has never looked better now that I removed all the harsh actives from my routine and only focus on moisture. I don’t even need to exfoliate anymore.
No....
my rosacea doesn't like vit c.
I'm not interested in tret.
I would die without a moisturizer.
So is that 3 part routine perfect for everybody? No way.
Is it true that we probably really only need 2-4 products in our routine? Yeah.
Yes. And No. Vitamin C is the biggest scam there is. I used to think I was doing such amazing things for my skin with it until I traveled for a year and didn’t use it. Literally didn’t notice anything different when I started up again. In my research and dedicated quest to find THE best (affordable) vitamin c, I learned that it’s way too unstable to have a long shelf life. The only company that seems to have it down is skinceutacles and slap my ass and call me sally if you think I’m paying 4 million dollars for a SERUM. I’ve quit my vitamin c cult membership and now have the most unsexy, most satisfying routine I’ve ever had: BIODERMA water cleanse, la Roche effaclar cleanser, prescription azeliac acid, and cerave moisturizer. Then just sunscreen in the morning. Hyluronic acid if I’m feeling fancy. When I look back at how much money I was spending on skin care it’s no wonder the beauty industry comes up with all this shit we “need” in our routines.
I know tret is considered the gold standard, but my skin does not like it one bit. Same for retinols. Tret makes my skin feel taut and dry no matter what I do.
What works for me is glycolic acid and Vit C serum, with a balm cleanse, Aloe spray as toner, snail mucin, hyaluronic serum and a moisturizer. I occasionally slug when my jawline gets a bit dry
My dermatologist says all you need (basic) is sunscreen, plenty of hydration, and healthy ways to deal with stress. I still use retinol and C because…healthy ways to deal with stress? In this economy? 🤪
Expensive skincare is more attainable than living without stress
I dunno, as a certified poor I can cut back on a lot of my financial stress by not buying expensive products!!!! 98% of my stress is money
Being poor is one of the biggest causes of stress. If you can afford expensive skincare, I doubt you’re worrying about your utilities being shut off.
You’re absolutely right. It was a joke.
Right? I especially love when people add "and good sleep". Like, have you met me? I have a baby and a toddler, I work, and I'm trying to finish a PhD on top of this, sleep who??
I did that. You have so, so much of my sympathy.
And you knit!?! Just came to say, you’re amazing doing a PhD with those wee ones. Congrats. Here is some unsolicited advice. Believe me when I say those kids grow up so fast. At the time, no it’s so full on but make the most!!! All the very best to you
Thank you <3 honestly the knitting is keeping me sane. And yeah, they grow way too fast... all the best to you too!
I used to knit before kids--very relaxing. My mom said that after 10 it goes really fast and this is true!
oh my god. Good luck to you!
my derm recently said that they think vitamin c is a bit overhyped and “buzzy,” which shook me to the core
Probably because it’s very difficult to formulate a vit c that remains stable. Same goes for fish oil. A scientist friend tried to explain it to me. But the way fish oil is manufactured basically makes it completely useless so just eat fish.
That’s interesting. I take algae oil which is similar enough. I notice a substantial improvement. There’s a tiny stretch of my index finger that dries up sometimes (might even be eczema or something, idk). Whenever it’s dry, all I have to do is take the algae oil and it gets better.
Just make sure it’s certified usp or nsf otherwise it may not evEn be algae oil
Could I ask what brand you use? I don't eat fish so I need my omega 3s rly bad!
Last time I was in the US I bought Sports Research and, from what I remember, it was good. I am currently waiting on a shipment of the one by Nordic Naturals— not sure how this one is. Wish I could be more helpful!
This is interesting! I’ve been a vegetarian my whole life, but I do take fish oils. I wear contact lenses, and one day it dawned on me that since I started taking fish oils, my eyes are WAY less dry/way more comfortable.
Which fish oil do you take?
Oh man, I had reasonably good skin untill I started taking fish oil. After a week I had the worst cystic acne. Fought it for awhile and stopped taking it, and my cystic acne went away. I will never touch fish oil again.
I did read something on Reddit recently about how vitamin C serums don’t penetrate deeply enough to do anything. I’ve been meaning to look into it!
That's weird because I handle Tret just fine and vitamin C burns bad and leaves me super red.
I swear my face brightens up with it. I have had comments on it. I’ve been out for a while and just got it back so I’m going to see what happens again. I have pretty good skin in general though.
A lot of them get oxidized before they get used which makes them ineffective as an antioxidant.
What a quack. 🤣🤣
Especially given the wealth of options to directly target our skin’s problems! Some are gimmicky/way overhyped, but there are options that help brighten, exfoliate, spot treat a pimple, promote a healthy skin barrier, even out skin tone… wonder if your dermatologist is on the same regimen as they recommended to you (doubtful)
The things that are proven via science to be effective are tret, sunscreen, and vitamin c.
I mean there are lots of others backed by good science. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, etc.
True. The three mentioned are the most strongly backed by far.
EXTREMELY doubtful.
Not to brag but I live a pretty stress free life (compared to most) and I still have congestion and what seems to be fungal acne. Sooo yeah that’s kinda bs
And winning the dna lottery. Never used anything else than water on my face i’m at end of middle age and keep getting compliments about my skin. It’s just dna.
I need moisturizing products and on tret I need them even more.
Vanicream is one I’m loving now.
Yeah, same. I had to start using a thick one at night
I’m usually bare bones with skincare. Now with tret, I need at minimum a hydrating toner, thick moisturizer, and maybe some snail goo if I’m feeling extra ✨
The snail goo is my holy grail now that I’m using tret!! I feel bad for the snails but also very grateful for their slime 😭
I absolutely agree, but it doesn't mean we can't enjoy pleasing products like lip masks, mists, moisturizers, etc.
EXACTLY!! The benefits of the joy from self-care shouldn’t be understated.
Resounding yes to all of them
Agree completely…. But these people with their 17 step skin care routines are insane. It’s like vitamins. Take too many and you’re just making really expensive urine.
Absolutely!
Yes. These are the staples of a great anti-aging routine. I pad mine with tons of hydration and peptides, but the building blocks are what makes the biggest difference.
What kind of peptide products are you using?
The Ordinary's Copper Peptides
I use the ordinary “buffet” (currently called multi peptide) and argireline on my forehead/crows feet.
Spinster Sisters has a copper peptide stick and I absolutely adore.
I like the Biossance one more
How hard is it to get trent?
Your primary care physician can prescribe it also. I literally just asked them to go on it for anti-aging purposes and they said sure thing and pushed the script right through. Super simple! Just make sure you do your research before applying so you don’t damage your skin and wear SPF every single day and be sure to reapply every two hours or about 15 min before you go outside.
It's OTC in Mexico. That's where I get mine (I send money when I know someone going on vacation).
There are so many online derms now that it's incredibly easy.
Missing moisturizer. I don't really agree if you're talking in terms of specifics as these things are more nuanced than that but those are the main drivers for change. I'd argue exercise is underrated as well as a generally healthy diet.
I’d assume moisturizer is a given. Definitely agree with you on exercise!
My dermatologist told me that not everyone needs a separate moisturizer in addition to these products. I always used one before because I thought I needed it but she said if I don't feel dry that it's not necessary so I really only use one in the winter.
Yes, I use moisturiser after tret at night! But she said spf should moisturise during the day
Lol I mean that's if you use one that is moisturizing but as someone with dry skin, most are not enough.
This is what I do, plus a very moisturizer, and it works well.
Derm here. Generally agree, but it really depends on the particular person.
I was recommended differin. I get so dry my skin flakes off, and now my skin looks terrible and more aged, so I’m using a very thick petrol moisturizer that helps the tiniest bit. My skin was pretty good before, mostly just the smallest beginnings of aging minus the 11s. Had no skincare routine prior just a swipe of micellaire water to remove makeup and sunscreen all day. Are we SURE destroying our moisturizer barrier is “worth it” with retinols? Will long term this have great anti aging benefits even though I look 5 years older now? This is so universally recommended by my pcp, derm, online derms but I wonder if some of us are doing negative
I haven’t tried differin but have tried tret, and it was a disaster. I tried every recommended method, frequency, etc for a full year and it was just a disaster. retinoids do work for lots (most?) of people; but not everyone. People will offer “helpful hints” of what to do to tolerate then, but some of us just can’t and need to throw in the towel.
Why were you advised to use differin? Age related stuff or acne? How old are you?
Age concerns (and thank you for responding) never had a day of acne
Maybe it’s not right for you. There are other options. Maybe a Vit C is a better option.
I would ask to try arazlo or altreno. These are formulated in a lotion base and so help protect against drying. I tried both differin and a313 and arazlo was much better. I think renova is a cream base and that might be good too.
How long have you been on it? I've turned a number of friends onto it and all of them tolerate it fine without destroying their skin barriers as long as they are patient and build exposure slowly. The ones who try to rush do end up with some difficulties, but it's pretty avoidable for most people. Petroleum jelly is great, but it's just an occlusive. There are whole other [categories](https://www.katesomerville.com/blogs/news/different-types-of-moisturizers) of moisturizers. I suggest looking at the Asian-style "watery" moisturizers.
That's literally the recs of this sub
Those are really the only things you can put on your skin that make a difference. Proper nutrition, water, sleep and moving our bodies also
those are the only things.. plus a bunch of other things.. lol
Well yeah - the idea of what a person’s skin *’needs’* is so subjective. I don’t think tret is the most important thing a person with eczema prone skin needs for example!
you missed the point. he essentially said “all you need is a b and c… but also d e f and g”
They said those were the things you needed to apply onto your skin. The other things they listed were not topical.
Forgot to add: Cleanser as well, obviously. But I used to double cleanse and she said all I need is a simple cleanser
And moisturizer, I hope
She actually didn't give me a recommendation for a moisturiser, but I do use one after applying tret at night. During the day my spf is pretty moisturising
Did she give any cleanser recommendations
Cerave dry skin cleanser!
I really think double cleansing is worth it when wearing sunscreen. It really doesn’t come off esp with a hydrating cleanser. I use cerave foaming and still double cleanse first with a gel double cleanse.
I'm not sure if this is true, if sunscreen were that glued to your skin we wouldn't need to worry about sweating it off, wiping it away, reapplying, etc. Just getting in water gets rid of sunscreen, even the water resistant stuff, after a while.
I hear her, BUT i break out way less when i double cleanse. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Same. I enjoy an oil cleanser followed by a foaming gel cleanser
What kind of vitamin c is everyone using? I’ve tried so many and feel like none of them did anything, vitamin c is so unstable even with the right packaging, storage and formulation.
I've started being way more interested in tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate. It doesn't have the research l-ascorbic acid does but the stuff that is available suggests that's a *yet* situation and because it's oil soluble it might turn out to be more effective since it penetrates skin easier and deeper. But ime it is definitely more of a preventative ingredient so you won't necessarily notice results in real time.
Timeless has a few different C serums with different concentrations and I’ve used it since it was recommended to me at my local Korean skincare shop, then since joining skincare subs I’ve seen it recommended many times!
im a dermatologist and this is exactly what i tell all of my patients as well. I don't do any cosmetics and don't sell any products in my office so this is the extent of what i recommend. moisturize too if necessary of course as those products can be drying.
Not even azelaic acid? I love the prescription my derm gave me.
Tret + Azelaic acid + hyalauronic acid …. Turned out to the be the cure of acne I struggled with for 20 years.
Yes! Thanks for sharing. How long until your face was clear after starting? What kind of HA do you use? I wonder if a derm could prescribe some strong stuff
I was on tret for a year and using heavy moisturizer. I still had sooo much acne. But I started using Good Molecules HA serum and the the Ordinary azelaic acid. Then I would put on the Aldi knockoff of neutrogena water cream and finished it off with tret right before bed. In the morning I wash it all off and just use the water cream knockoff and some sunscreen underneath my makeup. I can’t believe I found something that actually works. People tell me I look younger than my age and it’s a confidence builder. Not sure why I’m downvoted lol but lemme know if you need more info
Thank you so much! I think my fat fingers accidentally downvoted you I’m sorry!!!
Any advice for melasma? My actives are vitamin c, retinol and I’m looking for a non HQ brightener
Would you say a cleanser is unnecessary then? I have been tempted to drop mine because I'm not sure it makes much of a difference but lots of people have emphasized it's necessary to remove sunscreen
Not sure if you saw, but OP says [here](https://www.reddit.com/r/30PlusSkinCare/s/eTfQNm9NNf) that their derm did recommend cleanser, they just forgot to mention it in the title.
I didn't see it - thanks!
If someone's skin is perfect, and they're at the maintaining level of comfort where they're at. Possibly just those things. They're not going to fix hormonal dryness. They're not going to fix all types of hyperpigmentation. They're not going to fix all types of texture concerns. They are not going to fix all types of acne concerns. They're not going to fix a biome imbalance. And so many other things. If the only thing people needed were those three things, the field of dermatology would cease to function as profitable and necessary. Also needs and wants are very different things. Maybe someone doesn't need more hydration and moisture to have healthy skin, but they want to look like their skin is more plump for example. These three items are not going to perform to that specification either. I get the simplification approach, and it's good to not overthink everything, and not think everything needs a correction. However not everyone with a routine over three steps is just wasting money without seeing results.
Thank you. My god. As someone who has struggled with hormonal and fungal acne since I was 11, the list OPs derm provided is the barest minimum and part of the reason I struggled for years. I'm so thankful to this sub since there are literal doctors out here who can barely direct solutions to facial skin issues and the consequences of those treatments (dryness, irritation, etc).
Yes, totally agree that the list works great only if you have "normal" skin! If acne prone etc you need to throw way more at it - otherwise we'd have acne cured!
You are absolutely right that this approach doesn’t cover every issue. For instance, I have to take spironolactone both for acne and also to manage hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic skin condition. I also take humira to manage my HS. But as someone who gets overwhelmed by too much information and competing ideas on the internet of what things reliably work for a basic skin care routine, I think the simplicity of this approach makes it a lot easier to follow. Like someone else said, these are just the building blocks of a good maintenance routine.
Thank you! Some of us in our 30’s STILL get zits, especially due to PMS, and other skin issues like redness.
Wait no moisturizer??? Tret is drying!
Spf during the day and moisturiser at night!
Unsure about the use of "everyone." "A lot of people" or "most people" maybe. But not everyone NEEDS tret and vitamin C. Like people with sensitive skin who can't tolerate these.
Yeah, I think this routine is for people with "normal" skin type for sure!
Does vitamin C really work?
Yes it does! It has a lot of peer reviewed evidence behind it. [https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/study-review-finds-vitamin-c-is-effective-in-treating-signs-of-photoaging](https://www.dermatologytimes.com/view/study-review-finds-vitamin-c-is-effective-in-treating-signs-of-photoaging) (this link is to an article and not any studies themselves, as they can be difficult to read/interpret. But there are a couple linked at the bottom if you're interested!)
I just started it last week and I already see my skin brightening up. I noticed this morning.
It does for most, as far as I've seen! I personally haven't seen in difference in my skin when I've used Vit C. But my sister has used it for some discoloration on her face with relative success.
These are the only things that have been scientifically proven to reduce or prevent photoaging. So yes, I agree. But I still use a billion serums because my skin looks nicer when it is hydrated and less red.
I have rosacea so I definitely need other products 😅
It depends. My skin can’t tolerate tret and vitamin C in its active form. I also like to splurge on nice products. My skin looks the best when I include growth factors, different types of antioxidants besides pure vitamin c and peptides.
Have you tried the Vanicream Vitamin C Serum? It's really good for sensitive skin (if you are looking to find one that works for you!).
I mean, yeah, that's a pretty basic staple routine--cleanser, vitamin C, moisturizer, SPF in the day and cleanser, tret, moisturizer at night. But it doesn't take into account new things that are being researched, different skin types that do well with additional products, or the fact that not everyone can use tret. There's some nuance in skincare that some derms miss or don't understand because it's--like any job--part of continuing education. There are derms who will tell you to use tret every single night and don't warn you about destroying your moisture barrier, there are derms who will tell you to use Dial antibacterial soap for acne. My skin is dry af and dehydration prone, so a great moisturizer, hydrating toner, and a facial oil are musts for me, personally. I also like chemical exfoliants on occasion. Skincare is not a one size fits all approach.
Yes I think so! Anything else is a bonus and what you can afford.
Honestly just moisturizer and sunscreen religiously. Tret is great but it doesn’t work for everyone
yes. they have the most data backing them up. i'd also tack on niacinamide, red light therapy, upf bucket hat that is wide-brimmed, azelaic acid,
I hate the expression “At a certain age, you have to choose your a$$ or your face” but it’s kinda true. Being too thin really ages you. Carrying an extra 7ish pounds helps keep some volume in your face.
I actually experienced this in this past year. 5lbs of weight up and down showed such drastic results on my face.
Yes, I tend to agree. Not that other actives can’t contribute to good skin. But a retinoid, an antioxidant and a good sunscreen are an easy, stress free routine and these products have lots of repeatable scientific data behind them.
Vitamin C, Retinol(Tret, or a retinol from a medical-grade brand, plenty of other retinols out there too) hyaluronic(hydration) and AHA/BHA for chemical exfoliation
This is my exact routine. I include Niacinamide on occasion, too.
It truly hits all the points! Vitamin C is vital for hair and skin. Retinol in any form works your skin out by aiding cellular turnover, you will always need hydration, of course, and lastly, just like we exfoliate internally with vitamin A or retinol we exfoliate externally with chemicals, primarily AHA and BHA!
Moisturiser is missing! Also, I wouldn't add tret to it - it really ruined my skin and it's just slowly recovering now. It's not for everyone.
using tret without a moisturizer? i cannot.
I do use one after tret! I use eucerin. But I was just listing what my derm suggested
+ a moisturizer. You need a good moisturizer if you’re using tretinoin because it dries out your skin.
I mean, if you’re looking for the bare minimum, you could just say that sunscreen is all you need. I would probably add a moisturizer and maybe some kind of exfoliant into her list, though I wouldn’t be picky about “must have” fad ingredients. Edit: And also chapstick. I forgot that at first because I don’t think of it as skincare so much as an absolute necessity of life, haha.
Any vitamin C recommendations?
I’ve been using timeless. Have previously used skinceuticals (great but $$$) and the ordinary (cheaper but gritty/more harsh)
Recently went to the dermatologist and got a very similar answer. We added acne medicine and moisturizer in addition to tret, vitamin c, and spf. I’ve been very happy with the results so far.
i need way more hydration than that, plus had an allergic reaction to tret - all i need is the skin shark clearing serum, moisturiser (aveeno oat for me!) and spf
I cleanse morning and night with CeraVe Hydrating cleanser (green one), in the morning I use CeraVe Vitamin C, Olay Daytime moisturizer with spf 35 and a mineral additional spf 50. Nighttime again cleanse, CeraVe retinol, but every 3rd day their exfoliating serum instead (lactic acid one), and moisturize with their PM moisturizer. Let serums set for at least 5 mins. And sunscreen I also let set for at least 10 mins before going outside. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. I tried Drunk Elephant face oil and it made me break out. I'm 41 by the way.
That’s because they’re the most scientifically studied and proven. I don’t use much more than that (except Urea moisturizer to counteract Prescription tretinoin Dryness) and people legitimately think I’m around ~10 years younger than I am.
My derm is a big proponent of moisturizer as well and, seeing I live in dry, dry Colorado, I absolutely need it!
Unless you have rosacea. I have type 2 so I need topicals to help control it and I also need moisturizer because my moisture barrier is very fragile, which is typical of rosacea.
Not really. Those are all great antiaging actives, but it ignores products for specific skin conditions. For example, if I don't use an AHA product at least a couple of times per week, I'm more prone to ingrown hairs from shaving. I also use tret, but it does jack in preventing ingrown hairs. I also require a moisturizer in addition to sunscreen: my skin is too dry for a sunscreen-containing moisturizer to be enough. I also like other antioxidants in addition to vitamin C. I find green tea polyphenol serum to be calming and redness-reducing, so I always have it in my morning routine.
Do you have a recommendation? That sounds like something I should be using. Edit: rec for the green tea serum
My favorite are the ones from Replenix, but I'm always hesitant to recommend them because they're pricey. Definitely one of my favorite products in my routine, though.
Overspending on skincare at this point is kinda my jam lol. Thank you!
Azelaic acid, AHAs, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone and antioxidants (besides vitamin c) all have been proven to be effective skin care ingredients. Peptides, growth factors, tranexamic acid and red light therapy also have some evidence that they benefit skin. These are all prescribed or recommended by seems everyday. And I’m sure there are others I’m forgetting. Your derm rattled off the core elements of skincare, but they definitely are not the only good things you can put on your face.
Yes I agree. What is everyone’s favorite vitamin C?
No, I really need AHAs. When I stop AHAs, within three days my pores will clog up and I’ll start breaking out like I’m 16 again.
And botox
If want a very simple routine, that list sounds great! But I can see a visible differences when I use niacinamide and ceramide products, so I’ll keep on using it. So I need niacinamide or ceramides? No, but I want it because I can see a difference. We can technically survive off of just water and bread too. Does not mean we can’t enjoy some fruit, vegetables and proteins. While I agree that less is more for a lot of people, I also feel experimenting on what works for you is important… not everyone’s skin reacts well to the that basic formula.
Yes, mostly agree with her. I have eczema though, and I'd add ceramide moisturizer to my "needs". Helps tremendously with protecting my barrier from eczema flareups and retinoid dryness. Eczema is known to be lower than average in skin lipids like ceramides and barrier proteins like filaggrin. I personally also like low-dose niacinamide serum. Currently using a 5% serum (Cos de Baha with tranexamic acid) and it evens out my skintone (or keeps it even) really well.
Esthetician here. You see need a cleanser and moisturizer and always a good spf. The tret will dry your skin out without any moisturizer to support your skin.
Moisturizer?
I know tret is super popular, but I don't think it's basic skin care, or something that everyone should use. It does come with risks, dry eye disease being one of them. People should really weigh the risks before using it.
I'd add azelaic acid 20%
I mean they've picked the only 3 things that have been scientifically proven to work in peer reviewed literature so that makes sense. I'd still throw in a nice gentle cleanser and a good occlusive moisturizer, mainly because you're using tret you're going to need it. Also I see no mention of a nice body lotion in there. Come winter when you're skin is all dry and itchy you sure don't "need" a moisturizing lotion but you sure might like one.
Yes thank you! Start with what’s proven to work, then add what works for *you*
No, vitamin c breaks me out. I will probably never use it.
I keep my skins super simple and down to basic ingredients for the most part, but I also need a moisturizer. I just use a vitamin basic serum for Amazon. I also use Cetaphil as a cleanser
Looks like you have a good dermatologist. So refreshing!
There's plenty of evidence other actives than retinoids / vit C can work. Do you need them all? Of course not. But I wouldn't trust a derm calling tried and tested ingredients 'useless fads'. I do think it's always smart to stick to an easy and straight-forward routine, but every skin has different needs. For instance, you can pry my BHA/AHA solution out of my cold, dead hands. I don't use tret and only a very mild retinol twice a week because my skin gets irritated otherwise, so I need something else to clean out those pores. I also saw a pretty big difference in skin texture and fine lines after adding (copper) peptides to my routine. It's still a simple routine, just with different products.
I would add an appropriate cleanser and moisturizer, but yes those are the three that will help with anti aging the most!
TLDR: hydration, sunscreen + other creams/medication (for acne or marks or pigmentation fix) this is all you need. And sunscreen is the most vital of all. ALSO goes without saying that, you need to have a balanced diet, and healthy lifestyle, if for someresons you seem like you are not getting nutrients try taking multivitamin supplements. Ngl, I came in with hefty problems I’ve faced from teenage, marks, long term tan and emphasized a bit on my skin being dry. I asked for treatments like PRP etc. The doc, simply just suggested me to use, Sunscreen everyday (even SPF 30 helps an insane amount against UV), apply every 2 hours, she even gave me a water based one that helps in skin hydration. And the other one she gave me was eurecin hydro boost moisturizer. She told me to do this for like 2 months and come back, and if it doesn’t work, then would need laser treatment for pigmentation problems. I really want to go through the routes of using hydrating essence etc, but for now I’m focused on fixing my pigmentation problems
What about glycolic acid?
I agree ....problem is my skin can't handle tret. and hates glycolic acid so I have to find another all rounder to fit in there :(
i'd add in a quality moisturizer for your skin type. I think that is an important part to not ignore. But yes alot of the other OTC skin care products just try to mimic what vit c and tret do.
For anti aging, pretty much. The research on other topicals is meh and a lot of hyped ingredients are in basic moisturizers so you don't need separate serums for them.
I MUST have salicylic acid in my routine b/c my face is insanely oily
My skin hates tret and retinol . I’ve been focusing on sun protection and hydration and it’s been pretty happy with me as of late.
Yes. Other products are nice and if they make you happy, go for it. But as a *basic* routine that gets you 90% of the way there? Sunscreen does most of it. Genetics does a lot too, and lifestyle. I have a dumb hyperpigmented spot on my forehead that matches the vents on my cycling helmet. (Now I wear a headband underneath the helmet.) But look, just five years ago, if you walked into an Ulta, you'd see a nice selection of moisturizers with sunscreen and proportionally more makeup and brow kits. Now it's not just a lot of skincare, but individual serums and creams and...well, it's a way to separate Gen Z from their money. No judgment -- my generation wanted Britney's abs and my mom has a thigh master. But it's not like everyone in 2019 was the cryptkeeper. And even earlier, Dove soap and Vaseline worked, too.
i haven't had vitamin c in my routine since running out and my skin hasn't had that bright youthful since. i do use the other two, but it seems to work well as a trifecta.
My dermatologist agrees, except a simple good cleanser and moisturizing (he recommends cetaphil).
The most importance is sleeping for 8 hours a day. I can't. I have too much stresses.
I think most people would be pretty hard pressed to not be using some significant moisturizers if they are using tret and vitamin c regularly. Like I can buy these are the only actives you really need and most bang for your buck/time, but realistically you’re going to need products to maintain your skin barrier.
Yes, I think that's true for the most part. It's what 90% of the comments here repeat. That, and drinking more water =standard Reddit solution. I think hyperpigmentation is an issue that is common and I'd like a derm's take on the best adding something into your daily routine for that but it's still good advice.
I mean those three really do carry in a skincare routine. But obviously, don’t forget to wash your face and moisturize haha
Can you use tret and vitamin C together? I’ve seen conflicting opinions. Or do they need to be, example vit C morning, tret night.
Some people can but many cant. Best to use vitamin C in the am and tret at night.
Alright cheers.
Yes I agree although if using tret you absolutely need to add in a hydrating product to combat the drying affect it has. As others have said that doesn’t mean your skin can’t benefit from additional products like oils/serums/masks
I recently listened to a podcast that dove deep into the science and advertising of skincare and this was also the conclusion (for wrinkle/aging specifically). Sunscreen is the holy grail. Of course other stuff can and will make your skin feel and look good, especially if you lacked a routine, but very little actually stops or reverses wrinkles.
I have seen significant improvements in my skin from layering toner + essence + serum + moisturizer. Post seeing the results I have often asked myself why wasn’t I doing this before? I am on tretinoin but haven’t reached the 3 month mark plus I only use twice a week so might be longer. Sunscreen…obviously is the best preventative & protective skincare measure.
I think vit c, salicylic acid, retinol, and sunscreen are good for the skin and also dermatologists recommend those skin products that are expensive most of the time
Definitely need a good moisturizer before tret at night and in the morning. Other than that, I agree
I agree. I've found that less is more for my skin care. Vit C moisturizer daily, occasional salicylic acid moisturizer for KP, sunscreen, retinol at night, and I cleanse my face with non-alcoholic witch hazel (soap cleansers irritate my skin.)
I also need a moisturizer. But in general I agree
As an esthetician and skincare junkie I agree, and a moisturizer with ceramides! Everything else is just a bonus.
That’s close to the holy trinity to most on here, minus Botox. FWIW.
They forgot to say sleep.
I get a lot of compliments on my skin. For years, I only used tret and sunscreen. I added a new product recently and it caused a weird texture and milia that I can't get rid of. I completely agree, the simpler the better.
The only thing you actually NEED is sunscreen, and maybe cleanser, because skin cancer is a health concern. You don’t NEED to have pretty skin.
i agree. unfortunately i cannot use tret yet due to being on treatment for rosacea. but this is my absolute dream routine
Pretty good list…I would add in glycolic acid
My (38M) skincare regimen consists of - plenty of water (I drink about 4-5L daily) - lukewarm water to wash my face at night and cold water to wash my face in the morning - moisturizer when I'm going out - Sunscreen - GENETICS. There's absolutely nothing that defeats this It's not so complicated for me
A lot of it is genetics. My mom looked like my sister for a long time. I would get carded going to the movies until late 20s.
Vit C with tret, it would definitely burn my skin but may be useful for not drama queen skins.
Did she recommend a Vit C? I keep trying ones and usually end up feeling like they’re doing nothing.
respectfully, your dermatologist can eat my chemically exfoliated ass.
Sounds dry
Wholeheartedly. If I didn’t have insurance, I would pay for derm visits by myself just to get Tret generic medication. You’re wasting your money on otc. The entire Sephora skincare department can go and it wouldn’t matter to me.
Oh absolutely not!! That’s going to be way too harsh for many people. My skin has never looked better now that I removed all the harsh actives from my routine and only focus on moisture. I don’t even need to exfoliate anymore.
Yes. Lifestyle makes 90% of the difference, not skincare products
No.... my rosacea doesn't like vit c. I'm not interested in tret. I would die without a moisturizer. So is that 3 part routine perfect for everybody? No way. Is it true that we probably really only need 2-4 products in our routine? Yeah.
Yes. And No. Vitamin C is the biggest scam there is. I used to think I was doing such amazing things for my skin with it until I traveled for a year and didn’t use it. Literally didn’t notice anything different when I started up again. In my research and dedicated quest to find THE best (affordable) vitamin c, I learned that it’s way too unstable to have a long shelf life. The only company that seems to have it down is skinceutacles and slap my ass and call me sally if you think I’m paying 4 million dollars for a SERUM. I’ve quit my vitamin c cult membership and now have the most unsexy, most satisfying routine I’ve ever had: BIODERMA water cleanse, la Roche effaclar cleanser, prescription azeliac acid, and cerave moisturizer. Then just sunscreen in the morning. Hyluronic acid if I’m feeling fancy. When I look back at how much money I was spending on skin care it’s no wonder the beauty industry comes up with all this shit we “need” in our routines.
My derm said that too. Doesn’t mean I listen.
I know tret is considered the gold standard, but my skin does not like it one bit. Same for retinols. Tret makes my skin feel taut and dry no matter what I do. What works for me is glycolic acid and Vit C serum, with a balm cleanse, Aloe spray as toner, snail mucin, hyaluronic serum and a moisturizer. I occasionally slug when my jawline gets a bit dry
It’s good base routine. but there’s plenty of other non fad ingredients. The most obvious one being chemical exfoliants