2. Treatment: Customize Based on Your Skin Goals
This step is optional but powerful. Whether you want to fade acne scars, reduce wrinkles, or brighten dull skin, choose one active ingredient and stick to it.
Choose ONE from the following based on your goal:
- Retinol – boosts collagen, reduces fine lines
- Vitamin C – brightens, fights free radicals
- Niacinamide – calms inflammation, minimizes pores
- Salicylic Acid (BHA) – treats blackheads, unclogs pores
Caution: Don’t layer too many actives. Introduce slowly (2–3 times a week) and observe your skin.
Top sellers:
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5%
- Skinceuticals C E Ferulic (Vitamin C)
- Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant
1. Exfoliant: Your Weekly Skin Reset
Exfoliating 1–2 times a week removes dull, dead skin cells and boosts product absorption.
Choose chemical over physical exfoliants:
- Glycolic acid – best for normal/oily skin
- Lactic acid – gentler for dry/sensitive skin
- Mandelic acid – great for beginners
Examples:
- The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
- Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
- Cosrx AHA 7 Whitehead Power Liquid
Why Skincare Minimalism Is the Smarter Choice
The skincare industry thrives on new launches, limited editions, and fear-based marketing. Yet studies show that layering too many products, especially actives, can:
- Weaken the skin barrier
- Trigger acne and rosacea
- Cause sensitivity, burning, and peeling
- Lead to ingredient conflicts (e.g., mixing AHAs with retinol)
On the flip side, adopting a dermatologist-recommended minimalist routine:
- Reduces product overload
- Supports your skin’s natural barrier
- Helps you identify what works (and what doesn’t)
- Cuts costs on unnecessary or trendy skincare
This routine is also budget-friendly, time-saving, and better for the environment by reducing packaging waste.