How many products is a good skincare routine?

Skincare doesn't have to consist of applying numerous products and constantly changing your routine. In fact, dermatologists recommend not doing so. It's best to go for a few products that actually work for you. Consider that a mild cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen are your basic, non-negotiable components.

According to Dr. Kenneth Howe, of Wexler Dermatology in New York City, a common problem involving the use of too many products is what he termed redundancy of effect, meaning that a person could, without knowing it, be using two products that do the same thing. Chacón says that often her patients come with tons of skin care products that they use for various conditions, but all they have to prove is that they have irritated skin. In addition, layering several skin products can make it difficult for an active ingredient to penetrate the skin.

With the constant appearance of new products on TikTok and Instagram, each of which promises that this will finally give you that perfect and always elusive skin, it's hard not to get carried away with buying more products than you can hope to use. Welcome to Skincare Overload, where congested skin, persistent dry areas and sudden breakouts of acne on your face are signs that you may be using too many products.