Have You Been Sucked in by Skincare's False Promises?
By Marzia Rahmani, Founder of Real Skin Retinue
If you’re suddenly noticing more pigmentation, dryness, or fine lines, don’t be too quick to blame ageing. The culprit might be sitting on your bathroom shelf. In today’s overcomplicated skincare world, it’s easy to be swept up by marketing claims and trending ingredients – only to be left with compromised skin.
For over 20 years, I’ve been helping clients recover from the damage caused by aggressive skincare routines. What I’ve seen time and time again is that less is more. Stripping your skin with harsh cleansers, layering unnecessary actives, and ignoring how external triggers affect your skin can do more harm than good.
Over-Exfoliation: A Silent Saboteur
Cleansers with high concentrations of AHAs may promise a radiant glow, but in reality, they often over-exfoliate your skin’s natural barrier. The delicate eye area is especially vulnerable – and no, it’s not impossible for these acids to creep into those regions, causing irritation and long-term damage.
The Hidden Danger of Hyaluronic Acid
It’s hailed as a hydration hero – but hyaluronic acid can backfire. If used in dry environments or without proper occlusion, it pulls moisture from your skin instead of into it, leaving your collagen and elastin fibres more vulnerable to breakdown and accelerated ageing.
Pigmentation and External Triggers
Pigmentation issues don’t appear overnight without cause. Many photosensitising ingredients, especially when used without SPF or in sunny climates, can trigger uneven skin tone and sensitivity. What’s worse – you might be using them daily without knowing the long-term consequences.
What I’ve Been Shouting About for Years…
In my book Savef Skin and during my years on the shop floor, I’ve consistently highlighted hidden lifestyle triggers that exacerbate skin concerns. Medications, even common ones, can heighten sun sensitivity and increase pigmentation risk. And yes, even that refreshing mojito on the beach can be a problem – alcohol combined with sun exposure not only dehydrates the skin, It makes your skin photo sensitive which in turn accelerates damage to the skin.
Less Is More: The Savef Philosophy
Real Skin Retinue was born from a frustration with the overcomplication of skincare. I wanted to create something simple, effective, and safe — especially for those who have tried it all and ended up with worse skin.
The Savef Skin Essential Face Serum is infused with photoprotective antioxidants, ceramides, peptides, and essential lipids to support your skin barrier and encourage cellular repair — without relying on harsh exfoliants or trend-driven ingredients. It respects your skin, whether you’re fasting or not, and delivers what it truly needs.
Your skin doesn’t need more. It needs better.
Explore intelligent, luxurious skincare designed to protect, nourish, and restore.
