Skincare used to be just three steps: cleansing, toning and moisturising, which was popularised by Clinique. It was a neat way to sell three products to a customer. When I read in beauty forums that there is a 10 step Asian skincare routine, I was both peeved and amused by the flagrant profiteering.
Firstly, Asia is the largest continent. It is by no means homogeneous. It gives me great hope for the state of world affairs if China, India, Pakistan, Japan, North and South Korea and Taiwan could come to a happy consensus on a single issue. Secondly, there is the assumption that the different schools of thought (if there is a difference) do not influence each other. They do. Hyaluronic acid is a big ingredient in beauty products in the East and the West. And the idea that you need an “essence” or serum before a moisturiser, where did it come from? The New York Times attributes it to the Asian brands, but the Estée Lauder’s Advanced Night Repair isn’t exactly a new product.
Ultimately, skincare is something that should meet your needs and budget. If a 15 step regime works for you, continue with it. My opinion is, if your routine cleanses, exfoliates, provides your skin with antioxidants, sun protection and hydration, your needs are met. Don’t let a company sell you products that do nothing for you. If you are unsure, experiment by introducing one product at a time.
I’m suddenly wondering if I too, am buying too much. How many steps are there in my routine? I am counting as I write:
Morning
- Cleanser
- Toner
- BHA (exfoliant)
- Antioxidant serum
- Vitamin C serum
- Sunscreen
Night
- Makeup remover
- Cleanser
- Toner
- BHA or retinol
- AHA gel
- Antioxidant serum
- Vitamin C serum
- Hydrating essence
To the friends who have travelled with me, hey, I’m not that high maintenance ok? The number of steps are in single digits!