Whether it is the latest 10-step skincare routine that promises flawless skin or a new skincare hack that is doing the rounds online, many of us are looking for the answer to glowing skin.
But California-based medical esthetician Chloe Narushchen believes that the way many people use skincare products is actually contributing to skin problems.
“Probably 60 percent of the clients that I’ve had over the past year have given themselves skin conditions because they’re using so much skincare. It’s literally hurting their skin,” she said in a viral TikTok video with over 3 million views, emphasizing that “you don’t need 10 steps” in your skincare routine.
Known for sharing skincare tips and facts on her TikTok page @dewwwdropz, Narushchen explained why it is so important for everyone to understand their own skin needs.
@dewwwdropz/TikTok
“People aren’t aware of the unique makeup each persons skin has,” she told Newsweek. “There’s something on top of the top layer of your skin called your acid mantle—it consists of heathy nonpathogenic bacteria and sebum or oil. This protects your skin from invaders, pathogenic bacteria, loss of water and nutrients.
“It’s so important to keep your barrier strong, and know when it’s appropriate to take off that barrier. A lot of over exfoliation and non understanding of the combination of active ingredients destroys peoples barriers causing so many skin conditions and acne and aging.”
In 2022, the global beauty market, encompassing skincare, fragrance, makeup, and haircare, generated approximately $430 billion in revenue. In the U.S., the skincare industry alone is projected to be worth $27.34 billion in 2028, according to Statista.
Narushchen explained that she believes the industry puts emphasis on emotional marketing rather than educating consumers about their skin and proper care. “People forget that skin is a live organ meant to protect you,” she said. “Every ingredient, including filler ingredients, can affect your skin.”
In her recommended skincare routine, Narushchen advises starting with a good quality cleanser used daily, especially for those who wear makeup, recommending an oil-based cleanser or makeup remover. She emphasizes the need for a moisturizer to hydrate and heal the skin, along with sun protection to combat the damaging effects of UV rays and blue light from smart devices.
Narushchen also suggested incorporating high-quality vitamin C and vitamin A (retinol) into the skincare routine to protect against pollutants and free radicals.
In a sea of skincare products and with new ones appearing seemingly every day, Narushchen believes it is all about simplicity.
“People are desperately trying to find what is real and what is a gimmick,” she said. “It takes months of trying things until the skin gets so bad you cannot tell if it’s a self-made skin condition.”
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.