Axing the #morningshed and the Push for Skinimalism

By: Aly Gerdes

The Internet is Tired of Maximal Skincare: Why Dermatologists Urge Minimalism

In recent years, elaborate skincare routines overflowing with jaw formers, layers of serums, multi-mask regimens, and trending tools have become ubiquitous online. But a growing backlash is emerging: both consumers and dermatologists are tired of maximal skincare, and increasingly embracing minimalist routines for healthier, more effective skin.

When More Becomes too Much

Due to the mixing of active ingredients, elaborate skin care routines often lead to unintended consequences that can cause physical damage to the skin, provide users with a false sense of safety and contribute to environmental issues. Here are some of the drawbacks that come with the maximalist skincare trend:

• Skim barrier Breakdown: Overloading the skin with multiple actives (like retinol, AHAs, and vitamin C) can impair the skin barrier, causing irritation, redness, and sensitivity.
• Ingredient Risk: More products means more active ingredients, which increase the chances of adverse reactions or ingredient conflicts that generally prove to be ineffective, but can also cause chemical burns and severe allergic reactions.
• False Security: Though it’s easy to believe that layering on skincare products provides every possible benefit and protection, layering more products does not guarantee better results when compared to consistent usage of fewer, well-chosen items.

Dermatologists Endorse Minimalism for These Reasons

1. Protect the Skin Barrier: Using fewer, gentler products help preserve the skin’s natural defense mechanisms.
2. Reduce Irritation & Harm:Minimal routines lower risk of reactions and disruptions to the skin’s microbiome.
3. Boost Consistency and Compliance: A simplified regimen is more likely to stick.
4. Save Money: Focusing on essentials like cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF reduces wasteful spending.
5. Support Sustainable Living: Using fewer products fights the culture of overconsumption.

The Minimalist Skincare Blueprint

Dermatologists typically recommend this core trio:

1. Gentle Cleanser — Removes impurities without stripping natural oils

2. Effective Moisturizer — Hydrates and strengthens the skin barrier

3. Sunscreen (SPF 30+) — Shields against UV damage, premature aging, and skin cancer

Add one or two targeted treatments (e.g., retinoid, vitamin C) only if necessary. Focus on quality over quantity — learn your skin’s needs, not the latest trends.

Why “Less is More” Works

• Scientific Support: Minimalist routines preserve skin resilience and promote long-term health.
• Psychological Ease: Simpler routines reduce decision fatigue and align with sustainable, eco-conscious values.
• Economic Mindfulness: Prioritize value — durable, effective products over flashy novelty.

In Summary

The beauty industry’s maximalist era — with its countless serums, tools, and jaw formers is showing cracks. Dermatologists are championing minimalist skincare because it’s healthier, economical, sustainable, and far more manageable.

It’s time to break free from the “more is better” myth. True radiance comes from clarity, not clutter.

Research Links

https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-skin/everything-you-need-to-know-about-a-minimalist-skin-care-routine/ | https://www.wellandgood.com/health/morning-shed-trend-do-you-need-it#:~:text=Yes%E2%80%94and%20it's%20more%20than,Wasted%20product%20and%20money:%20Dr. | https://amerisleep.com/blog/morning-shed-trend/ | srsltid=AfmBOoq3qX5WOUyRxu5XtmgzM3JwXn7aitbmxHCUtuAEroekbviYi-Ke | https://theordinary.com/en-us/blog/what-is-skinimalism.html#:~:text=Depending%20on%20your%20skin%20type,dullness%2C%20and%20signs%20of%20sensitivity.| https://www.buzzfeed.com/alanavalko/skincare-minimalism-tiktok | https://hc.mountsinai.org/skinimalism-less-is-more/

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