Popular Skincare Routines Taking Over the Internet

Skincare has become a huge trend online, especially on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. People everywhere are sharing their favorite products and steps to get glowing, healthy skin. While there are many tips out there, some routines have stood out because they are simple, effective, and backed by results. Here are the most popular skincare routines taking over the internet right now.

1. The 5-Step Korean Skincare Routine

Why it’s trending:
K-beauty is known for gentle and glowing skin. The 5-step version is a simpler version of the traditional 10-step Korean routine, but still powerful.

Steps:

Cleanser
Toner
Essence or serum
Moisturizer
Sunscreen (morning) or sleeping mask (night)

Popular Products:
Cosrx, Laneige, Innisfree

2. The “Glass Skin” Routine

Why it’s trending:
Everyone wants smooth, shiny, almost see-through skin—just like glass. This look became a big trend in Korean skincare and has spread worldwide.

Key Focus:
Hydration and layering lightweight products to build glow.

Tips:
Use toner, essence, hyaluronic acid serum, and a water-based moisturizer. Avoid heavy creams.

3. Slugging

Why it’s trending:
Slugging involves sealing your skin with petroleum jelly (like Vaseline) at night. It locks in moisture and helps with dry, damaged skin.

How to do it:
After your night routine (cleanser, toner, serum, moisturizer), apply a thin layer of Vaseline or Aquaphor on your face.

Best for:
Dry or damaged skin, especially in winter.

4. Skin Cycling

Why it’s trending:
Popularized by dermatologists on TikTok, skin cycling is a 4-day skincare rotation that prevents irritation from active ingredients like retinol and acids.

Basic 4-Day Cycle:

Day 1: Exfoliation (AHA/BHA)
Day 2: Retinol
Days 3 & 4: Recovery (hydration and barrier repair)

Result:
Healthier skin barrier, fewer breakouts, and better results over time.

5. Morning Minimalist Routine

Why it’s trending:
Simple, short, and perfect for busy mornings. Many influencers now focus on fewer products with stronger results.

Steps:

Cleanser
Vitamin C serum
Moisturizer
Sunscreen

Key Tip:
Stick to lightweight, non-sticky formulas that work well under makeup.

6. Double Cleansing at Night

Why it’s trending:
This method removes makeup, sunscreen, and dirt more effectively.

How it works:

First cleanse: Oil-based cleanser (removes makeup/sunscreen)
Second cleanse: Water-based cleanser (cleans skin)

Good For:
Acne-prone or oily skin types

7. Barrier Repair Routine

Why it’s trending:
With more people using strong actives, many are now focusing on healing the skin barrier.

Must-have Ingredients:

Ceramides
Niacinamide
Panthenol
Squalane

Popular Products:
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream, The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

8. “No-Makeup” Skincare Look

Why it’s trending:
Glowy, fresh skin that looks good even without makeup is in style. This routine focuses on skin tone, brightness, and hydration.

What to Use:

Brightening serums (Vitamin C)
Glow drops or dewy moisturizers
Lightweight SPF with a tint

9. Face Yoga and Lymphatic Drainage

Why it’s trending:
Many users now add facial massages to their routines to reduce puffiness and improve blood flow.

Tools used:

Gua sha
Jade roller
Hands-only massage

Benefits:
Lifts facial features, boosts glow, and reduces stress.

10. Sunscreen as a Must-Have Step

Why it’s trending:
Sunscreen has gone from being optional to essential. Influencers and dermatologists now remind people to wear SPF every single day, rain or shine.

Best Types:

Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher
Lightweight, no white cast formulas
Korean and Japanese sunscreens are fan favorites

Final Thoughts

Skincare routines are personal, but these popular trends show that people want healthy, glowing skin without too much effort. Whether you're into full routines or keeping it simple, there's a trend that fits your lifestyle. Always patch test new products and find what works best for your skin type.

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