Ever scrolled through TikTok and stumbled upon a skincare routine so bizarre it makes you question the very fabric of reality? We’re talking caveman-level simplicity: ditch the serums, the essences, the multi-step routines, and embrace the power of… dirt, oil, and animal fat?
Sounds ridiculous, right? But the “caveman method” has exploded on the platform, garnering millions of views and sparking a fierce debate: is it a brilliant return to nature or a recipe for disaster?
The Caveman Method: Separating Fact from Fiction
The latest viral skincare routine involves ditching skincare products and water, letting the skin barrier “heal” on its own. Dubbed the “caveman method,” it has sparked debate about its effectiveness, with some even attributing it to celebrities like Alexa Chung and Salma Hayek.
Understanding the Caveman Method
TikTok creator Tia Zakher has become a viral sensation for her adherence to the trend, posting videos with visibly flaky skin, which she claims is a result of the method. According to Zakher, “what you’re seeing is dead skin, that’s going to flake off eventually while new healthy skin forms underneath.”
Zakher has her skeptics, but what do experts think about the regime?
Expert Opinions on the Caveman Method
Associate Professor Deshan Sebaratnam, a dermatologist at the Skin Hospital in Sydney, says “it’s not a good idea.” According to Sebaratnam, “the reason being is your body is constantly regenerating itself, your skin is constantly turning over, and old skin cells are being shed. Normally they can fall off, but sometimes they can get stuck together, particularly if your skin’s a little bit oilier.”
Sebaratnam cites a condition known as terra firma-forme, where dead skin cells can accumulate like scale, as a risk of not showering.
The Role of Sebum in Skin Health
Associate Professor Yousuf Mohammed, an expert in pharmaceutics and skin toxicology at the University of Queensland, notes that sebum provides a partial barrier to protect the skin. However, if left unwashed for too long, it can create the perfect atmosphere for certain types of bacteria to grow.
“The caveman technique [might have] worked when we lived in the caves because we didn’t have these new kinds of [modern] pollutants around,” Mohammed said. “In today’s day and age, we really do need to wash.”
The Risks of Not Washing Your Face
Terra Firma-Forme: A Condition Caused by Neglecting Skin Hygiene
Sebaratnam highlights the risk of terra firma-forme develops due to neglecting skin hygiene. This condition occurs when dead skin cells accumulate like scale, which can lead to further skin problems.
In addition to terra firma-forme, not washing your face can lead to bacterial growth, as sebum can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth if left unwashed for too long.
According to Sebaratnam, “you need something a little bit more than just water, because those things are oil-based, and oil and water don’t mix, so you need something that can help remove oil-based products.”
Sebaratnam recommends using a simple skincare routine, involving sunscreen in the morning and a gentle soap-free cleanser at the end of the day. He emphasizes that cleansers are helpful in removing oil-based products like makeup and sunscreen.
Furthermore, Sebaratnam notes that only people with conditions like eczema need moisturiser, and aggressive skincare products can disrupt the barrier function of the skin.
A Basic Skincare Routine: What Experts Recommend
When it comes to a basic skincare routine, experts recommend keeping it simple and gentle. Associate Prof Deshan Sebaratnam, a dermatologist, advises against the 12-step skincare routine myth, stating that it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money on multiple products.
Morning Skincare Routine: Sunscreen and Gentle Cleanser
In the morning, Sebaratnam recommends applying sunscreen and a gentle soap-free cleanser, ideally without fragrances or perfumes. This is because makeup, sunscreen, sweat, and oil are all oil-based, and oil and water don’t mix, so a gentle cleanser is necessary.
Evening Skincare Routine: Gentle Soap-Free Cleanser and Sunscreen
In the evening, Sebaratnam advises repeating the morning routine, using a gentle soap-free cleanser to remove makeup and other impurities, followed by sunscreen.
The Importance of Gentle, Fragrance-Free Products
Sebaratnam emphasizes the importance of using gentle, fragrance-free products to avoid disrupting the skin’s natural barrier function. Aggressive skincare products can strip away natural oils, and even products like soap can disrupt the skin’s pH transiently.
Debunking Common Misconceptions about Skincare
There are several common misconceptions about skincare that experts want to debunk. One of the most prominent is the idea that a 12-step skincare routine is necessary.
The 12-Step Skincare Routine Myth
Sebaratnam asserts that this myth is completely untrue, and that a simple, gentle skincare routine is all that’s needed. He advises against taking extremes, like the “caveman method”, and instead recommends a balanced approach.
Moisturiser Only for Certain Skin Conditions
Sebaratnam notes that moisturiser is only necessary for people with conditions such as eczema. For others, sunscreen with moisturiser in-built is sufficient. He emphasizes that people often use moisturiser as a form of meditation or self-care, rather than a medical necessity.
The Impact of Aggressive Skincare Products on the Skin Barrier
Sebaratnam warns that aggressive skincare products can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier function. Even products like soap can strip away natural oils, and commercial skincare brands often promote products with active ingredients that can target specific concerns.
Practical Advice for a Healthy Skincare Routine
Experts offer practical advice for maintaining a healthy skincare routine. Sebaratnam emphasizes the importance of choosing gentle, effective products.
Tips for Choosing Gentle, Effective Products
Sebaratnam advises against spending a lot of money on aggressive skincare products. Instead, he recommends opting for gentle, soap-free cleansers and sunscreen with moisturiser in-built.
The Importance of Self-Care in Skincare Routines
Sebaratnam notes that for some people, skincare is a form of meditation or self-care. He advises against dismissing the importance of self-care in skincare routines.
Balancing Skincare Routines with Realistic Expectations
Sebaratnam emphasizes the importance of balancing skincare routines with realistic expectations. He advises against expecting overnight results and instead recommends a gentle, consistent approach.
Conclusion
In the wake of its widespread popularity on TikTok, the ‘caveman method’ skin care routine has sparked a heated debate among experts about its efficacy. The article from The Guardian presents a nuanced exploration of this trend, weighing in on the scientific backing behind its core principles. Notably, experts dispute the notion that using only water and a washcloth is inherently better for the skin, and some argue that the routine’s benefits may be overstated. Conversely, supporters of the method emphasize the importance of simplicity and the potential for reduced irritation.
As the skin care landscape continues to evolve, the ‘caveman method’ has significant implications for the industry as a whole. If this trend gains traction, it could signal a shift away from the complex, multi-step routines that have dominated the market. Moreover, this debate highlights the need for transparency and evidence-based claims in the beauty industry. As consumers become increasingly savvy, the demand for credible information and effective products will only continue to grow. By examining the science behind the ‘caveman method’, we can better understand the intricacies of skin care and make informed choices about our routines.
Ultimately, the ‘caveman method’ skin care routine serves as a catalyst for a more critical examination of the beauty industry’s practices and promises. As we move forward, it will be essential to separate fact from fiction and prioritize evidence-based solutions. By doing so, we can create a more informed and discerning consumer base – one that values science, transparency, and efficacy above fleeting trends.