Your skincare routine maybe wrong: experts flag increasing skin damage from misinformation

The explosion of skincare content online has changed how people understand and care for their skin. With influencer-led routines promising quick results and rapid access to all kinds of information, dermatologists say that this influx has brought with it, alongside greater awareness, confusion, misinformation, and, increasingly, harm. There have been reports of a growing number of patients presenting with aggravated conditions, delayed diagnoses, and skin damage linked to self-treatment and trend-based practices.

Information overload, health risks

“There’s a lot of information as well as misinformation, so people definitely are unclear about what to take and what not to,” says Katheeja Nasika, consultant, department of dermatology, Rela Hospital, Chennai. She notes that patients often end up “using too many active ingredients, layering the wrong products together, and using treatments without the right diagnosis.”

This, she explains, complicates clinical care. “Someone with a fungal infection may have used a topical steroid ointment and worsened the condition. A person with rosacea might use retinoids thinking it is acne, and trigger a flare up.”

Narayanan A., consultant dermatologist, SRM Prime Hospital, calls it “do-it-yourself dermatology.” While awareness has increased, he says, “misinformation has spread faster than evidence-based treatment.” Patients frequently adopt trend-driven routines rather than need-based care, leading to overuse of actives and damage to the skin barrier.

Misdiagnosis is also common. “Fungal infections and eczema are often mistaken for each other. Treating one can worsen the other,” he adds.

K. R. Sharmatha, senior consultant, SIMS Hospital, points to a broader issue. “The layperson, especially the younger generation, does not understand the science behind skincare and experiments out of curiosity,” she says. “This has resulted in tremendous side effects and long-term damage, usually on the face.”

Skin beyond aesthetics

Dermatologists emphasise that the problem is rooted partly in how skin is perceived.

“Skin is not just a cosmetic concern,” says Dr. Katheeja. “It is one of the largest organs of the body and plays multiple roles, from protection against environmental factors to maintaining the body’s internal balance and enabling sensory perception.”

Experts add that the skin reflects internal health and immune processes. “Triggering the skin with unnecessary products or applying toxic agents in the name of cosmetics should be avoided,” she says.

According to Dr. Narayanan, the skin performs critical functions that are often overlooked: barrier protection, immune defence, temperature regulation, water balance, and sensory functions. “It also plays a role in vitamin D synthesis. When the barrier is disrupted by aggressive products, it can trigger acne, pigmentation, and chronic inflammation,” he explains.

Studies indicate that a significant proportion of systemic diseases first manifest on the skin, making it an important diagnostic organ rather than merely a cosmetic surface.

Prevalence, burden and myths

Skin conditions are among the most common health concerns globally. Data from the Global Burden of Disease study show that skin diseases affect nearly one in three people worldwide at any given time.

In India, dermatologists report a high prevalence of conditions such as acne, eczema, pigmentation disorders, and particularly fungal infections. The latter are especially common in tropical climates, affecting an estimated 20–25% of the population.

Experts say misuse of over-the-counter medications, especially steroid-based creams has compounded the problem. These not only worsen infections but also prolong treatment and increase the likelihood of recurrence.

Among the most widespread misconceptions is the belief that sunscreen use leads to Vitamin D deficiency.

“Sunscreen does not cause vitamin D deficiency,” says Dr. Katheeja. “The amount applied is too minimal to significantly block vitamin D synthesis. Adequate levels depend more on diet and supplementation.” She adds that even populations with high sun exposure, such as farmers, have been found to have Vitamin D deficiency, indicating that sunlight alone is not sufficient.

Dr. Narayanan adds, “even with sunscreen use, enough UVB radiation penetrates the skin for vitamin D production in real-world conditions.”

Other myths, he says, include the idea that “natural” ingredients are always safe. “Substances like lemon, baking soda, or certain oils can cause irritation or allergies,” he says. He also points out that more products do not equate to better results, and that acne is not simply a hygiene issue but a complex inflammatory condition.

Experts warns against the use of unverified home remedies and products without scientific backing or regulatory approval.

Need for better care

Dermatologists are now increasingly seeing patients after significant damage has already occurred. “We see many cases of steroid-damaged skin and sensitivity following home-based chemical peels,” says Dr. Katheeja. Fungal infections remain among the most commonly mistreated conditions, often leading to delayed diagnosis and prolonged treatment.

Dr. Sharmatha highlights the emergence of what is now termed “topical steroid-damaged face,” resulting from prolonged misuse of steroid-containing creams. “We are also seeing damage from unsupervised use of strong peels and actives, often driven by viral trends,” he says.

In many cases, attempts to self-treat not only worsen the condition but also make it more difficult to manage clinically.

Despite the complexity introduced by online trends, dermatologists emphasise that skincare itself need not be complicated. Experts highlight that a simple routine with a cleanser and sunscreen is sufficient for most people. Moisturisers can be added depending on skin type.

They also underscore the importance of internal health. “A healthy diet is essential, as the skin reflects the overall condition of the body,” she says, adding that the use of products, particularly actives, should be guided by a dermatologist. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as hydration, sleep, and mental well-being as integral to skin health. He advises avoiding over-exfoliation and unnecessary layering of products.

Seek medical advice

Experts recommend consulting a dermatologist if a skin condition does not improve within a few days or shows signs of worsening.

“Any rash that persists beyond two to three days, or is associated with severe itching, oozing, or sensitivity, should be evaluated,” says Dr. Katheeja.

Dr. Narayanan adds that sudden changes such as persistent redness, unusual pigmentation, acne flare-ups, or new growths warrant medical attention.

While the digital age has made skincare information widely accessible, experts caution that it has also normalised self-treatment and trend-based practices that may compromise skin health.