[Routine Help] Is my routine too complicated?

I used to use all of the TO products you’re using now, for similar reasons - desperate to fade hyperpigmentation, very little patience so a tendency to rely on products and alternate complicated routines. I did this for about 4 months. IT DID NOT WORK for me. Not only was it not effective because applying so many products in the same routine decreases their effectiveness, but it was also not sustainable long term - I became frustrated about investing so much time to put everything on in the AM and PM, and making sure to wait between products so that they don’t pill etc.

I now have been using OTC Differin for about 3 months, keeping as minimal as possible of a routine. AM: cleanser >> HA+moisturizer >> spf. PM: cleanser >> Differin >> moisturizer.

A prescription-strength retinoid (like Differin or tretinoin) DOES ALL THE JOB for you. It is the only topical whose efficacy is supported by so much data. Incorporating an rx-strength retinoid will address your skincare concerns, will make the biggest difference, and then you only need to make sure to keep your skin moisturized and protected with spf.

/r/SkincareAddiction Thread