The Truth About Skincare Trends: What Works, What Doesn’t

The Truth About Skincare Trends: What Works, What Doesn’t

The skincare industry is full of evolving trends, some driven by genuine scientific discovery, others by viral appeal. While a few offer tangible, long-term benefits, many are built on fleeting promises that may not align with your skin’s actual needs.

At Skyetides, we believe in cutting through the noise. In this article, we’ll explore which skincare trends are worth following, which ones are better avoided, and how you can build a ritual that’s effective, thoughtful, and backed by evidence, not algorithms.

Trends Worth Trying: What Science Supports

1. Multi-Peptide Serums

Peptides are among the most scientifically supported skincare ingredients available today. These short chains of amino acids signal skin cells to repair damage, increase collagen production, and reduce inflammation. In products like GLOW, peptides such as GHK-Cu and Snap-8 are combined to deliver a powerful, multi-targeted effect, helping to smooth fine lines, boost firmness, and protect against external stressors.

Why it works:

  • Encourages natural skin regeneration
  • Targets visible signs of aging
    Supports skin barrier repair
  • If you’d like to explore how peptides work within our formula, read our Insight From Science to Skin: Peptides in GLOW

2. Skin Cycling

Skin cycling, the nighttime practice of alternating active ingredients like exfoliants, retinoids, and hydration-focused products, can give your skin time to rest and recover. A four-day cycle is the most popular, which typically comprises using active ingredients for four nights of the week, followed by two nights of rest. When done properly, it can help minimize irritation while enhancing long-term results.

Why it works:

  • Reduces risk of over-exfoliation
  • Supports balanced, long-term skin health

3. Barrier-Focused Skincare

One of the most important and science-supported trends in recent years is the renewed focus on protecting and strengthening the skin barrier. As the skin’s first line of defense against environmental stressors, pollution, and moisture loss, a healthy barrier is essential for maintaining long-term skin health. Ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides, such as those found in GLOW, play a vital role in reinforcing this barrier. They help retain hydration, soothe inflammation, and enhance the skin’s ability to repair itself. For individuals with sensitive, dry, or compromised skin, barrier-focused rituals are not just a trend, they’re a foundational step toward stronger, more resilient skin.

Why it works:

  • Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
  • Strengthens skin against external stress
  • Supports long-term skin balance by reducing sensitivity and inflammation

4. Minimalist Rituals

More products don’t always mean better results. A minimalist approach – using a gentle cleanser, a targeted treatment like GLOW, and daily SPF – can deliver lasting benefits without overwhelming the skin.

Why it works:

  • Simplifies decision-making
  • Reduces irritation from overuse of active ingredients
  • Encourages consistency

 

Trends to Approach with Caution (or Avoid)

1. DIY Skincare Hacks

From lemon juice toners to toothpaste for blemishes, DIY skincare continues to gain traction online. But many of these hacks lack scientific support and worse, can damage your skin’s natural barrier or cause long-term sensitivity.

Why it doesn’t work:

  • High risk of irritation or chemical burns
  • No control over pH or concentration
  • Lacks the stability and safety testing of professionally formulated skincare
  • Often worsens existing skin conditions or creates new imbalances

2. Excessive Layering of Active Ingredients

Combining exfoliants, acids, retinoids, and vitamin C all in one ritual might seem like a shortcut to glowing skin but it often leads to inflammation, peeling, and weakened barrier function. Without proper guidance, it’s easy to overdo it.

Why it doesn’t work:

  • Causes skin stress and sensitivity
  • Can undo progress by damaging the skin barrier
  • Increases the likelihood of product interactions that reduce effectiveness

3. Slugging for Every Skin Type

Slugging, the practice of applying a thick layer (usually petroleum-based) over skincare products to lock in moisture, has become increasingly popular. However, it’s not ideal for everyone. For acne-prone or oily skin types, this method may trap excess oil and bacteria, potentially leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

Why it doesn’t work for all:

  • Can trap bacteria and sebum
  • Not suitable for oily or congested skin

4. Unverified Tools and Devices

At-home microneedling rollers, facial tape, and unregulated LED masks may claim to lift, tone, or rejuvenate, but without clinical evidence or safe design. When used incorrectly, or without professional guidance, they can disrupt the skin barrier, introduce bacteria, or trigger inflammation. Even seemingly harmless trends can carry hidden risks if the devices are not well-researched or regulated.

Why it doesn’t work:

  • Risk of skin trauma or infection due to improper use or non-sterile materials
  • Often lacks clinical studies or efficacy data to support claimed results
  • Can disrupt the skin barrier, especially when used on sensitive or compromised skin

Trends can be exciting, but not all are built to last. By understanding which skincare practices are grounded in science, you can make confident choices that serve your skin in the long term.

A consistent ritual, supported by effective ingredients like peptides and hyaluronic acid, will always outshine a viral hack. If you’re ready to build a ritual that’s smart, simple, and rooted in real results, GLOW is a great place to start.

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