5 Scientifically Proven Tips to Upgrade Your Skincare Routine

The skincare market is overflowing with products, trends, and promotions. With an almost overwhelming amount of moisturizers, serums, and soaps on sale at every corner, it can be hard to decipher what will work best for your body and skin type. Different products don’t always mean better results, and blindly following popular trends can often do more harm than good.
Our skin is an organ, after all, so instead of the latest fads, consider focusing on meaningful, scientifically backed approaches to enhance your skin instead of hindering it. Here are five research-backed ways to upgrade your skincare routine.

1. Apply Sunscreen Every Single Day

If there’s one thing dermatologists agree on, it’s that sunscreen is non-negotiable. UV radiation is the leading cause of premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate the skin, making daily SPF 30+ application essential.
Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection. Studies show that consistent use reduces the risk of skin cancer and keeps skin looking smoother and reduces fine lines.

2. Incorporate Topical Vitamin C

Vitamin C is one of the most researched and effective ingredients for brightening skin, reducing hyperpigmentation, and stimulating collagen production. A study backed by the National Journal of Medicine found that topical vitamin C significantly improves skin tone and reduces fine lines when used consistently.
For best results, choose a stable form like L-ascorbic acid and apply it in the morning before sunscreen. This powerhouse antioxidant also neutralizes free radicals from UV exposure and pollution, offering an extra layer of protection.

3. Prioritize Hydration—Inside and Out

Drinking enough water is crucial for overall health, but does it actually improve your skin? While hydration alone won’t erase wrinkles, studies suggest that maintaining proper hydration enhances skin elasticity and barrier function . Additionally, the quality of your water matters. Tap water can contain contaminants like chlorine, lead, microplastics, and even PFAS, which may negatively impact your overall health when consumed consistently. For peace of mind about your hydration quality (along with easy access), consider installing a high-quality filtration solution like a reverse osmosis system.
Beyond drinking water, topical hydration is just as important. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides in your skincare routine to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin’s protective barrier.

4. Use Soft Water for Healthier-looking Skin

You may not realize it, but the quality of the water you don’t drink also plays a major role in your skin’s health. Hard water, which is high in minerals like calcium and magnesium, can build up on your skin and clog pores. This can block natural oils from reaching the skin’s surface, cause skin to become dry or irritated, and even exacerbate conditions like eczema.
With hard water, you may also notice your moisturizers and products working less effectively because they cannot reach the skin through the hard water residue. Soft water, on the other hand, helps skin retain hydration and allows cleansers and other products to work more effectively. In fact, 93% of water softener owners surveyed said they saw a positive change in their skin. See how beauty expert Grace Gold speaks to this positive impact on a recent segment on Lifestyle Today.

5. Use Retinoids for Cell Turnover and Anti-Aging

Retinoids, which come from vitamin A, are some of the most well-researched ingredients for skin renewal. They work by increasing cell turnover, which reduces fine lines, unclogs pores, and boosts collagen production. Dermatologists recommend starting with an over-the-counter retinol and gradually working up to prescription-strength retinoids for best results.
If you’re new to retinoids, apply a pea-sized amount at night and follow with a moisturizer to minimize irritation. Consistent use over time leads to brighter, smoother, and happier skin.

Get Smarter With your Skincare

Upgrading your skincare routine doesn’t always mean adding more products—it’s often about simply making smarter choices backed by research and what is right for your skin type. From ensuring your water is skin-friendly with a water softener to incorporating dermatologist-recommended ingredients to upping your hydration, these small changes can lead to significant improvements for healthier-looking, softer, and all-around better skin.