Self-love or social pressure?

Social media doesn’t fail to introduce trends that users quickly lap up. At times bizarre, most of the trends are often driven by the desire to look or feel better. The latest to enter the block is a multistep nighttime skincare routine that can take one up to an hour.It's a skincare routine, involving as many as 10-20 steps that can take anything between 15minutes to an hour. The first part involves a three-step cleansing process that includes make-up removal with an oil-based cleanser, followed by a foam cleanser and exfoliation. The second part is toning and third is treating skin problems, which can range from anywhere between four to five steps depending on your needs. It includes serum, spot treatment, eye cream, essence (optional) and sheet mask (optional). These are followed by applying (replaced "moisturising with" with "applying") a moisturiser and a hydrating mask, which concludes the fourth step. The fifth is lip care, where you use a scrub and balm. Next comes taking care of your neck and décolleté with a serum and moisturiser. Apart from these steps, other optional steps include using a facial oil, retinol, and treatments for active breakouts.ALSO READ: Next up, AI as your friend, philosopher and emotional guideAmrita Bafna, a publicist from Mumbai and an avid skincare follower, says, “I try to go full-fledged (with the routine) at least three to four times a week. It makes me feel relaxed. For a skincare junkie like me, it’s therapeutic.” According to Amrita, sticking to her nighttime skincare routine has helped her with issues like tanning, but despite that she has felt the pressure of keeping up with this trend. Dr Ajay Rana, dermatologist & aesthetic physician and founder-director of ILAMED, Delhi, notes, “For most people, three to four well-selected steps are more than sufficient. The focus should be on consistency, not quantity.” Following this influencer-driven trend, the doctor says he has seen a notable rise in ‘reactive skin’ cases that often stem from using too many products or combining actives like retinol that don’t work well together. Dharna Chaturvedi, consultant clinical psychologist, Artemis Hospitals warns of a bigger danger. “People who post pictures of their glass skin that looks perfect, set impossible standards. The idea that you should buy more than one thing is part of conspicuous consumption, which says that more is better. This cycle can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems, where routines feel more like a task," shares Dharna.Experts say that the real benefits come from simplicity and consistency of a routine rather than layering multiple products. If you want your skin barriers to thank you, following 'less is more' should be your go-to. “There is some scientific support for layering ingredients in the right order to enhance penetration and efficacy, particularly in professional treatments. However, more isn't always better. When products are incompatible or overused, they can lead to irritation, sensitivity, or even barrier damage. The key is in choosing quality over quantity,” says Dr Ajay. After all, losing sleep over taking care of your skin isn’t a solution. “Stress and not getting enough sleep can be worse than not using a product. Taking care of yourself should make you feel better, not add pressure,” adds Dharna.ALSO READ: Tattoo designs get a personalised AI makeover“Complicated self-care routines that are based on what other people want, can be a sign of poor mental health. People who use social media often set goals that are too high and act in ways that are too materialistic.”“Skin fatigue and barrier burnout are becoming more common, often triggered by aggressive routines. The skin loses its resilience, becomes dull, inflamed, or unusually dry, and may even develop conditions like perioral dermatitis. In such cases, the solution is often a ‘skincare detox’ and a return to basics”“With social media shouting about a night care routine and brands enticing you with promotions, one is bound to get carried away. But as you mature, you understand the importance of hassle-free practices”