The rise in popularity of advanced, multi-step routines (originally led by viral K beauty videos) begs the question whether they are truly more effective than simpler skin care routines. Let's explore the clinical results of a professional curated Skin Authority ADVANCED home routine compared to a SIMPLE two steps of cleansing and moisturizing. Is more really better? Is it worth the investment of time and effort?

What is an Advanced skin care routine?

An Advanced, professionally curated routine involves: (1) carefully selecting specific products targeted to address specific skincare concerns while simultaneously preserving and restoring skin health; and (2) laying out a specific sequence to use the products which ensures we maintain a balanced microbiome, optimize the efficacy of how key ingredients from each product work in harmony, with no negative interactions or harsh side effects including sensitivity, dryness, flaking or irritation. While the exact number of steps may vary slightly depending on the depth of skin condition, we focus on immune boosting steps for long lasting skin health to include:

1. CLEANSING: To remove dirt, oil, makeup while balancing pH and prepping for absorption of next steps.

2. RESURFACING/EXFOLIATION (non-invasive): To remove pollutants, toxins, dead skin cells and promote cell turnover.

3. TREATMENT SERUM (condition specific): Concentrated treatments that target specific skin issues including wrinkles, loss of elasticity, fine lines, breakouts, uneven skin tone, rosacea, sensitivity, eczema, psoriasis, or hyperpigmentation.

4. DERMACEUTICAL REGENERATION: Restoring and repairing healthy skin cell function by reactivating the fundamental building blocks of the dermal layer: anti-oxidants, body natural growth factors, Vitamin D3+, peptides, glycans, ceramides, and more.

5. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION (indoors and out): To protect the skin from harmful UV rays, light from screens and wireless, pollution and thermal heat.

What is a Simple skin care routine?

A simple skin care routine typically includes just a few steps, such as cleansing, moisturizing, and applying sunscreen. This minimalist approach is appealing for its convenience and perceived cost effectiveness.

How do these two approaches do in clinical evaluation?

How do Advanced routines achieve these results?

1. Enhanced Hydration And Ability to Retain Moisture

Studies have shown that layering products, especially those containing humectants like hyaluronic acid, can significantly increase the skin’s hydration levels. Layering products with different levels of penetration allows for the gradual absorption of key ingredients, ensuring that skin receives adequate moisture below the surface and beyond.

2. Improved Skin Texture And Tone

Advanced routines integrating more modern exfoliation technology, which is non-invasive and gentle to use daily, helps consistently remove dead skin cells, promoting smoother skin texture and a more even complexion. Clinical studies have found that participants who incorporated exfoliation into their daily routines experienced noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture compared to those following a simple moisturizing routines where dead skin is allowed to pile up and prevent moisture absorption while increasing the appearance/depth of lines, wrinkles and discoloration.

3. Improvement Of Specific Target Concerns

Advanced routines allow for the use of dermaceutical-level ingredients specifically tested and designed to address specific skin issues, such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or fine lines. Research has shown that using professional formulations with higher levels of key active ingredients, at lower pH designed for advanced penetration, can result in faster and more noticeable improvements. Typical Simple routines rely on high-pH moisturizers with general ingredients featuring larger molecules and less penetrating thickness.

4. Strengthened Skin Barrier

A well-rounded skin care routine that includes pH balanced moisturizing,  sun, and pollution protection can significantly improve the skin’s barrier function. The skin barrier is vital for protecting against environmental aggressors and preventing moisture loss. Clinical trials have demonstrated that participants using Advanced routines with appropriate moisturizing and sun protection steps had stronger skin barriers, moisture retention, and reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) compared to those using a Simple routine.

5. Protection Against UV Damage And Environmental Stressors

Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in any effective skin care routine, but Advanced routines coupled with key antioxidants, peptides, and other regenerative protective ingredients provide a dual layer of defense against UV rays and environmental stressors such as pollution. Clinical research supports that combining sunscreen with antioxidants offers superior protection against photoaging and skin damage compared to using sunscreen alone.

What Is the downside of Advanced, multi-step routines?

While multi-step skin care routines offer numerous benefits, it is important they are curated with professional skin care knowledge because, using too many products or the wrong combination can lead to skin irritation, particularly for those with sensitive skin. It’s crucial to have guidance from professionals with hands on experience using active ingredients and understanding their impact on skin conditions gained through administering thousands of skin care treatments across a wide range of skin tones, types and conditions. This knowledge along with in-depth clinical testing provides a predictability and confidence in outcomes. For example, Skin Authority formulas have less than a 1% allergic reaction when properly applied and utilized.

Are Advanced routines worth it?

The clinical evidence supports that an Advanced, multi-step skin care routine can offer superior results in terms of hydration, texture, targeted treatment, and protection. However, the decision to adopt a multi-step routine should be based on individual skin needs, lifestyle, and preferences. For those willing to invest the time and effort, a well-curated multi-step routine can yield impressive improvements in skin health and appearance.

For those who prefer simplicity, focusing on the basics—cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection—can still maintain healthy skin. Ultimately, the best skincare routine is one that is consistent, personalized, and enjoyable, ensuring you maintain it for the long haul.

Tips for building your routine

1. Keep it simple. We have taken all the guesswork out of starting your routine by making sure you have everything you need to get started: easy to follow morning and evening step instructions with the right order and amount of product specified. Start with our fundamental Youthful Glow, Clear Skin or Bright Skin routine as you can gradually add other items as you are ready. 
2. Be Consistent. Be diligent for at least 60 days and the steps just become habit! Just like eating well or working out, it is the consistency that really transforms along with the product order. 
3. Consult regularly with your Skin Authority professional.  Valuable guidance tailored to your skin type and concerns will keep you on track to achieve accelerated results. Free text, email, chat, phone, and videos consultations are available.

Whether you opt for a Simple routine or a more Advanced one, the key is consistency and finding what works best for your skin.

We are so happy to be a part of your skincare journey!