Skincare has changed a lot in the last 10 years. Back in 2015, most of us were trying random home remedies and following viral beauty hacks without really knowing if they were good for our skin. It felt like trial and error, and honestly, some of those things weren’t great at all. Now, in 2025, things are way smarter and more effective — thanks to science and better understanding of what our skin actually needs.
I talked to Dr. Vanita Rattan, a top dermatologist, who shared what skincare habits from 2015 have become outdated, and what new routines are really making a difference today.
Cleansing: Bye-Bye Makeup Wipes, Hello Double Cleansing
Remember how makeup wipes were the easiest way to clean your face? They were everywhere! But they often left stuff behind and sometimes irritated the skin. Now, the best way to clean your face is with double cleansing. First, you use an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, sunscreen, and oils. Then, you follow up with a gentle water-based cleanser that washes away everything else without drying your skin out. It takes a little more time, but your skin feels way cleaner and happier.
Exfoliation: Scrubs Are Out, Gentle Acids Are In
Those rough apricot or coffee scrubs we loved in 2015? Turns out, they can actually hurt your skin by causing tiny tears and irritation. The new trend is chemical exfoliation — sounds scary, but it’s actually super gentle. Ingredients like mandelic acid or lactic acid help remove dead skin cells smoothly without rubbing your face raw. Your skin texture becomes smoother, and there’s way less risk of redness or damage.
Moisturizing: Ditch Coconut Oil, Go For Barrier-Boosting Creams
Coconut oil used to be a favorite — it’s natural, cheap, and everyone was raving about it. But it can clog pores and doesn’t really help your skin repair itself. Plus, it can block moisture instead of helping your skin hold onto it. These days, the best moisturizers have ingredients like ceramides and peptides that actually help rebuild your skin’s natural barrier. So your skin stays hydrated and stronger over time.
Sunscreen: From Skipped Step to Daily Must-Have
Sunscreen is the most important step, but back in 2015, a lot of people skipped it. Why? Because older formulas were greasy, heavy, and left a white cast — especially on darker skin tones. Today’s sunscreens are light, invisible, and work for every skin color. Plus, everyone knows now that using SPF every day helps prevent wrinkles, dark spots, and serious skin damage. No excuses!
Anti-Aging: Forget Coffee Scrubs, Trust Retinol
Coffee scrubs got popular because they gave a quick glow and had antioxidants, but they don’t really work long-term and can hurt your skin barrier. Retinol and other Vitamin A derivatives are the new heroes. They help your skin make collagen, reduce wrinkles, and fade dark spots over time. It’s a slow process, but it works, and it’s gentle when used right.
To Sum Up
Skincare in 2025 is smarter and kinder to your skin than ever before. If you’re still stuck with old habits like makeup wipes, scrubs, or skipping sunscreen, it’s time to switch it up. Try double cleansing, chemical exfoliants, ceramide moisturizers, daily SPF, and retinol-based anti-aging. Your skin will thank you!
Also Read : How to Prevent Premature Aging: Expert Tips to Keep Your Skin Youthful!
