There is a myriad of conflicting opinions circulating on social media regarding skincare, making it challenging to discern which advice to trust. Amid the plethora of trending products claiming to address various skincare issues, a prominent dermatologist has cautioned against the potential harm of following online guidance blindly.
Dr. Emma Amoafo-Mensah, a Consultant Dermatologist, has outlined practical strategies for individuals to navigate through the social media skincare frenzy and safeguard their skin from misguided recommendations. She advocates for a “skincare reset” as research indicates that 69% of Gen Z individuals feel overwhelmed by the abundance of beauty products available, with many already incorporating anti-aging solutions intended for older skin types.
Expressing concern over the pressure exerted on young people to experiment with unnecessary products and intricate routines, Dr. Emma emphasized the adverse effects that these trends can have on youthful skin. She advised individuals under 25 to steer clear of anti-aging products, citing that their skin has not yet shown signs of aging and may react adversely to potent chemicals like retinol, glycolic, or salicylic acid, potentially damaging the skin’s natural barrier.
Furthermore, she warned against the use of harsh ingredients, alcohols, and active compounds that accelerate cell turnover, often leading to skin irritation, inflammation, and barrier disruption. Dr. Emma highlighted the risks associated with prolonged exposure to fragrances, which can heighten the likelihood of developing contact dermatitis.
Rather than adopting elaborate skincare routines, she recommended a simple three-step regimen comprising a hydrating cleanser, toner, and water-based cream for individuals under 25. Emphasizing the sensitivity of youthful skin, she cautioned against harsh exfoliants and retinols that may compromise the skin barrier, advocating for ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to maintain skin health.
For niacinamide, products such as The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% serum and Beauty Of Joseon Glow Serum Propolis + Niacinamide offer effective solutions for blemish-prone skin and enlarged pores, respectively. These products work to enhance skin radiance, texture, and sebum regulation while ensuring adequate hydration.
Additionally, Simple Booster Serum 10% Niacinamide from Boots, enriched with vitamin B3, caters to all skin types, offering visible results through its natural ingredients. Dr. Emma stressed the importance of incorporating a reliable SPF product as the final step in a skincare routine to shield the skin from UVA and UVB rays, emphasizing the necessity of SPF 30 or higher throughout the year to combat premature aging and reduce the risk of skin cancer.