It is a recently proposed term used to describe an unhealthy preoccupation with achieving "perfect" skin through increasingly complex skincare routines, cosmetic products, or procedures.

It is not an official medical or psychiatric diagnosis. Instead, it describes a pattern of behaviour that dermatologists are beginning to discuss more often as skincare becomes a bigger part of everyday life.

What does cosmeticorexia look like?

It isn't about having a long skincare routine.

It is about feeling that your routine is never enough.

You may find yourself:

Ironically, this often leads to the very problems people are trying to avoid.

When skincare becomes too much

Your skin is remarkably adaptable.

It usually responds well to routines that are appropriate, consistent, and suited to its needs.

What it struggles with is constant change.

Frequently introducing new products, combining multiple active ingredients, or treating every perceived imperfection can overwhelm the skin barrier. The result may be dryness, irritation, redness, sensitivity, or contact dermatitis.

Sometimes the skin isn't reacting to one product.

It is reacting to everything.

Why are dermatologists talking about it now?

Skincare has never been more accessible.

That is something worth celebrating.

We have better formulations, better education, and more evidence based options than ever before.

At the same time, social media has changed the way we think about skincare.

Daily routines, product recommendations, ingredient lists, and flawless looking skin fill our feeds. It can slowly create the impression that healthy skin requires an ever growing routine, and that there is always one more product standing between you and better skin.

For younger audiences, this influence often begins much earlier than it did a decade ago.

Does this mean you should stop enjoying skincare?

Not at all.

There is nothing wrong with enjoying skincare, appreciating good formulations, or trying something new.

The question is whether skincare serves you, or whether you have started serving your skincare routine.

A dermatologist's perspective

The goal is not the longest routine.

It is not the most expensive routine.

And it is certainly not the routine with the most active ingredients.

The goal is the right routine.

For most people, that means cleansing appropriately, supporting the skin barrier, protecting the skin from the sun, and using a few well chosen products consistently.

Healthy skin is rarely built by constantly starting over.

It is built by giving your skin what it needs, and giving it enough time to respond.

Sometimes, the most valuable skincare decision is deciding that you don't need another decision.

In a world of endless launches, viral routines, and conflicting advice, good skincare should bring clarity, not confusion.

That has always been our philosophy at CHOSEN.

To be calm among the clutter.

To help reduce decision fatigue with clear, evidence based guidance and thoughtfully chosen, best in class products that earn a place in your routine.

Because healthy skin doesn't need more noise.

It simply needs the right choices.

You may also like to explore: