How skincare became a competitive sport ?
and why we’re opting out
By Joyce, beauty trends debunker
I felt it instantly: skincare had transformed into a performance. We’re talking ten-step routines, trending actives every week, and a constant flood of skincare advice on TikTok. What should have been a moment of self-care now feels more like an endless to-do list. It’s a quiet competition, where every product and every step has to be justified. And in the race to get everything "just right," we often forget the most important part: how our skin actually feels.
Skincare or a Marathon ?
It’s hard to escape the perfectly curated tutorials, flawless shelfies, and polished routines. Slowly, without even realizing it, we begin comparing ourselves. But here’s the truth: your skincare routine should never feel like a pressure test. Or worse, a subtle form of social conformity. Who really wins in all this?
The ones profiting from our doubt. The over-the-top content, the exaggerated promises, the algorithms pushing sensationalism. But what about our skin barrier? Our self-esteem? They deserve so much more than the constant testing, experimenting, and overthinking.
Let’s talk real: pre-breakout anxiety, zoom insecurities, and those moments we keep to ourselves.
Why don’t we talk about how a tiny breakout can impact our confidence? Or how we feel the urge to keep our skin “camera-ready” at all times? And those days when we cancel plans or turn off our camera just to avoid showing our real skin?
These silent worries are more common than we think. It’s time to recognize them. Taking care of your skin should never be a source of anxiety. It should be about care, not performance.
What if we took a step back?
Your routine doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. Skin thrives on consistency, gentleness, and simplicity. Everything else is just extra.
Love discovering new products? Go for it. But let it come from curiosity, not from the pressure to keep up with an endless trend cycle.
So, how do we break the cycle?
<3 Simplify to breathe easier: You don’t need an arsenal of products. Three thoughtful steps are more powerful than a dozen random ones.
<3 Learn your skin, not someone else’s routine: Your skin is unique, and that’s what makes it special.
<3 If it stings, it’s not for you: Skincare should never cause discomfort.
<3 Peace of mind over perfect skin: It’s not just okay to prioritize mental well-being, it’s essential.
Real skin, real vibes, real routines.
What if we slowed things down? Skincare doesn’t need to be impressive. It just needs to be real. A moment of care just for you. No filters, no rules, no pressure.
In a world dominated by trends, it's easy to forget that skincare isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. There’s no universal rulebook for perfect skin, no secret formula to achieve "flawless." Our skin is constantly changing, responding to the environment, our stress levels, and even our mood. What works today might not work tomorrow. The key is to listen to what your skin truly needs and honor that; rather than chasing an ideal set by influencers or viral beauty trends.
The real glow comes from this acceptance. When you stop fighting against your skin and start listening, you’ll notice a shift not only in how your skin looks but also in how you feel.