3 skincare products that are a waste of money and what to buy instead, according to a dermatologist (2024)

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3 skincare products that are a waste of money and what to buy instead, according to a dermatologist? ›

Dermatologist Dr. Mia Jing Gao said that you don't need to use a toner in your skincare routine. A cheap cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF are all you really need. LED face masks and collagen supplements are also a waste of money, Gao said.

What I advise my patients is that for moisturisers, cleansers, shampoos and conditioners, they can use whatever they like. It's best to go for something really basic and inexpensive for those. And then, to really invest in a good serum with an active ingredient that is really going to target, your skin or hair concern.

The Core Four includes a cleanser, an exfoliant, a moisturizer, and a SPF. Cleansing is the most basic aspect of skincare, everyone should do it daily – from the guy with perfect skin, to the MAC makeup artist.

The three steps of cleansing, toning and either moisturizing or vitalizing form a thread that run through our entire daytime and night time range.

“Investing early in the health of your skin, with regular skin care, will not only better protect it from the harsh effects of winter, but also keep you looking and feeling your best throughout the year,” says Steven Nwe, DO, a dermatologist with Northwestern Medicine.

Moisturizing Reduces Skin Problems - Moisturizing everyday can reduce the chance of developing extreme dryness or oiliness. Both extremes are harmful for skin and cause common skin conditions like acne. Conceals Other Skin Blemishes - Using a daily moisturizer ensures that the skin's blemishes are camouflaged.

Are toners a waste of money? ›

Another product that can be totally skipped from the cleansing routine, according to Gao, is toner. "Most are alcoholic and actually irritate the skin," she said. A cheap and easy skincare routine can be as simple as cleansing and moisturizing your face at night and cleansing and using an SPF product the next morning.

While it may be buzzy (and it can be great for dry, tight types) hyaluronic acid isn't the be all and end all of great skin. One thing all experts featured in this article do agree on, though, is that if you do choose to use it, you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars. Dr.

Unless science is able to reliably prove and substantiate that there are types of collagen that are able to penetrate the dermis of the skin, don't waste your money on collagen creams.

When using a combination of products, Dr. Farris said, apply serums and eye creams after cleansing but before moisturizers and sunscreens. She recommended that any time you add steps to your skin care routine, you should try one product at a time and use it for about three weeks before adding something else.

While some of the extras, like serums and toners, can be great additions to your routines when used properly, the top three necessities are a cleanser, a moisturizer and a sunscreen. You don't need expensive items or a long list of products to have healthy and clear skin.