How to Do Skincare Fasting?

Skincare fasting is a trending skincare method involving temporarily abstaining from some or all skincare products to let your skin rest and potentially improve its natural function. There's no one-size-fits-all approach; it's personalized.

You can customize your skincare fast based on your skin type and needs. Here are a few options:

• Minimalist Approach: Reduce your routine to only essential products like a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. This allows for a less drastic break from your usual routine. (This approach aligns with the advice from Dr. Jaliman in What Is Skin Fasting, And Should You Try It, Per A Dermotologist.)

• Partial Fast: Skip a few products for a day or two each week. For example, you might omit serums or exfoliants for a designated period. (This is suggested in HOW DO YOU SKIN FAST?).

• Complete Fast: Refrain from all skincare products for a short period (a couple of days or a few times a week). This gives your skin a complete break to recover. (I Tried Skin Fasting, the Latest Trend for Clear Skin supports this concept).

What to Expect During a Skincare Fast

During your fast, you might experience some temporary changes in your skin's appearance. These might include slight dryness, increased oil production (as your skin adjusts), or minor breakouts as your skin balances itself. These are usually temporary and should resolve as your skin adjusts.

Important Considerations

• Listen to your skin: If your skin reacts negatively (e.g., severe dryness, irritation), stop the fast immediately and reintroduce your products gradually.

• Sun Protection: Always use sunscreen, regardless of your fasting method, as sun damage can harm your skin.

• Consistency: Regularity helps you observe your skin's response and determine the optimal fasting frequency for you.

• Skin type: Individuals with dry skin may need to approach fasting more cautiously than those with oily skin.

Benefits of Skincare Fasting (Claimed)

Many believe that skin fasting allows the skin to reset and function optimally, potentially leading to clearer and healthier skin over time. The rationale is that some individuals may experience negative effects from overuse of products. Some believe that harsh cleansers can strip the skin's natural lipids, leading to issues. ([MISC] What do guys think about "Skin Fasting"? mentions this perspective). However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. Some dermatologists advise against complete abstention from skincare.