Do you believe in the "less is more" approach?

Do You Believe in the "Less Is More" Approach in Skincare?

Yes—and increasingly, the skincare world is starting to believe in it too. The phrase “less is more” has become more than just a minimalist motto; it’s a powerful philosophy that many dermatologists, estheticians, and skincare enthusiasts swear by. And for good reason: simplifying your routine can often lead to healthier, happier skin.

In recent years, skincare has exploded in popularity. With endless product launches, 10-step routines, and layering trends flooding social media, it’s easy to think that more products equal better results. But in reality, overdoing skincare—known as “skin fatigue” or even “skincare burnout”—can do more harm than good.

A minimalist approach focuses on using fewer, well-chosen products that target your individual skin concerns. This typically includes the essentials: a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, sunscreen during the day, and perhaps one or two active treatments like a serum or exfoliant. These products work together to support the skin’s natural function rather than overwhelm it.

Why does the "less is more" method work so well? First, it reduces the risk of irritation. When you pile on multiple products, especially those with strong active ingredients like retinol, acids, or vitamin C, your skin may become red, dry, or inflamed. With a pared-down routine, you're more likely to keep your skin barrier intact and inflammation under control.

Second, using fewer products helps you better understand your skin. When you introduce one new product at a time, it's easier to tell what’s working and what isn’t. If something causes a breakout or irritation, you can quickly identify the culprit. In a complex routine, that becomes almost impossible.

The “less is more” mindset also helps cut down on waste—both money and product. You don’t need a shelf full of half-used serums or moisturizers to achieve glowing skin. Instead, you can invest in high-quality essentials that offer proven results.

This approach is especially beneficial for people with sensitive or reactive skin. Often, the best thing you can do is stop experimenting with too many products and let your skin reset. Simplicity can be powerful.

However, “less is more” doesn’t mean neglect. It’s about intentionality—using what’s necessary and effective rather than what’s trendy. For example, wearing sunscreen daily and staying consistent with a gentle, nourishing routine will often yield far better long-term results than constantly switching between new, hyped products.

Ultimately, skincare should feel good—not stressful. If your routine feels overwhelming, expensive, or is causing more skin issues than it's solving, it might be time to simplify. Your skin doesn’t need 20 products to thrive—sometimes, the most beautiful skin comes from doing less, not more.

So yes, when it comes to skincare, I truly believe that less is often more.