Dermatologists are urging people to abandon complicated skincare routines and expensive products, instead focusing on basics like proper cleansing, moisturising, and sun protection. Speaking to the British Brief, experts emphasised that for most people, a simple regime is sufficient.
Dr Ophelia E Dadzie, a consultant dermatologist at Hillingdon Hospital in Uxbridge, said: “It is about going back to basics and keeping things simple. This doesn’t mean spending lots of money on expensive skincare products. It is about proper nutrition, exercise, getting enough sleep, stress reduction and having a very basic skincare regime.”
The warning comes amid concerns over bacterial buildup in loofahs and other shower tools. Dermatologists advise replacing loofahs regularly or switching to washcloths that can be cleaned frequently to avoid skin infections.
Dr Jean Ayer, a Cheshire-based dermatologist and senior lecturer at the University of Manchester, added: “As long as you cleanse properly after wearing makeup, moisturise if required and use sunscreen on a sunny day, for the vast majority of people, that is all they need to do.” She cautioned against early use of anti-ageing products, noting that pre-puberty children do not need specialised skincare.
For those with acne, experts recommend oil-free products like benzoyl peroxide and advise seeing a GP if over-the-counter treatments fail. Dr Bav Shergill, a consultant dermatologist in Sussex, said: “GPs are very competent at dealing with the majority of acne.”
