Do You Really Need to Use So Many Skincare Products?
You don’t need a 5–10 step routine. Most people get 90% of results from three things: cleanse, a balanced all-in-one treatment, and SPF (AM). More isn’t better—better is better.
Why “more steps” became a thing (and why you probably don’t need them)
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Marketing creep: each step promises a tiny benefit; together they become clutter.
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Ingredient overlap: multiple serums often duplicate actives (wasting money, raising irritation risk).
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Barrier fatigue: over-layering + strong actives = redness, flakes, and breakouts.
The minimum routine that actually works
|
Time |
Step |
Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
|
AM |
Gentle cleanse (optional if not oily) |
Remove sweat/oil without stripping. |
|
AM |
All-in-one treatment |
Hydrates, clears pores, brightens, supports barrier in one go. |
|
AM |
SPF 30+ |
The only proven daily anti-aging essential. |
|
PM |
Cleanse |
Clear the day’s grime and sunscreen. |
|
PM |
All-in-one treatment |
Repair, exfoliate gently, even tone overnight. |
When extra products do make sense
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Stubborn hyperpigmentation: add a dedicated brightening serum if the all-in-one isn’t enough.
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Very dry climate: a light occlusive (cream) on top at night.
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Prescription plans: if your doctor gives you tretinoin/benzoyl peroxide—follow that plan.
Signs you’re using too many products
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Tightness, stinging, or burning after layering.
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Shiny but dehydrated skin (oily outside, thirsty underneath).
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More breakouts after adding multiple new steps at once.
Common myths (busted)
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“You need a toner, essence, serum, moisturizer, eye cream…”
No. You need the functions, not the packaging. A smart all-in-one can deliver them.
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“More active = faster results.”
Higher % or more layers often = more irritation. Consistency wins.
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“Oily skin shouldn’t moisturize.”
Dehydrated skin overproduces oil. Lightweight hydration calms the cycle.
FAQs
How many products do I actually need?
Two to three daily: cleanser, all-in-one, and SPF in the morning.
Is a 10-step routine necessary?
No. It’s optional hobbyism, not a requirement for great skin.
Can one product do it all?
A well-designed formula can cover hydration, barrier support, brightening, oil control, and gentle exfoliation for most people.
If you want simple + effective
Bareborn’s Multi-Purpose Face Solution was built to replace toner, serum, essence, and moisturizer with one lightweight, pH-balanced step—featuring glycerin + niacinamide + salicylic acid + zinc PCA + bakuchiol + vitamin C derivative + soothing botanicals. Non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive skin.