Dr. Arti Sharma
28-Apr-2026
Are these viral skincare trends worth it? An expert shares her inputs!
Inputs By: Dr Arti Sharma, Senior Consultant, Derma Puritys Aesthetic Clinic
In the ever-evolving world of skincare, trends no longer merely dictate routines; they shape how we perceive skin health itself. Yet, as beauty becomes increasingly intertwined with digital virality, discernment has never been more essential.
Skin Cycling:
Among the most compelling practices to emerge is skin cycling, a methodical, almost intuitive approach that mirrors the skin’s natural rhythm. By alternating active ingredients such as exfoliants and retinoids with recovery-focused nights, skin cycling prioritises barrier integrity while delivering visible results. It is this balance between intervention and restoration that elevates it beyond a fleeting trend. In many ways, it signals a return to dermatological fundamentals, where less aggression and more intention guide long-term skin health. For individuals navigating concerns like acne, pigmentation, or early ageing, this approach offers both efficacy and sustainability, making it one of the few trends poised to endure.
What is Skin Slugging?
In contrast, slugging occupies a more selective, almost indulgent space within skincare rituals. Rooted in the simple act of sealing moisture with an occlusive layer, it delivers a moment of tactile luxury while reinforcing hydration. For dry, sensitised, or barrier-compromised skin, slugging can be transformative, particularly in environments that strip the skin of moisture. However, its growing popularity has led to a one-size-fits-all narrative that does not hold true across skin types. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, the same occlusive properties can exacerbate congestion and trigger breakouts.
Skin Fasting:
Perhaps the most polarising of the three is skin fasting. At its core lies the idea of withdrawal: the belief that stepping away from products allows the skin to reset itself. While the philosophy may appeal to a growing desire for minimalism, the reality is far more nuanced. Skin, much like any living organ, thrives on balance and support. Stripping away essential care – cleansing, hydration, and most critically, sun protection – can disrupt rather than restore. That said, there is merit in simplification. For overtreated or reactive skin, a pared-back routine can provide relief, allowing the barrier to recalibrate. However, complete abstinence is seldom the answer; intelligent reduction is.
What unites these trends is not their popularity, but the larger shift they represent. Skincare is no longer about excess; it is about precision, personalisation, and respect for the skin’s biology.
And as we look ahead, it becomes clear that the future of skincare will not be defined by the next viral moment but by enduring principles rooted in science and sensibility.
Cover Credits: Instagram @aneetpadda_
