It’s official: Gen Z feel OVERWHELMED when buying skincare products

With so many myths and misconceptions around skin care products, it can be difficult to know what products to use, the best for each skin type, or even which ingredients you should be looking for when purchasing. 

However, in a recent study, Tropic Skincare surveyed 2,000 people and found that 38% of Gen Z admit to feeling overwhelmed when buying skincare products.

And with searches for ‘easy skincare routine’ soaring by 1,043%, it’s clear to see that people are looking for a simple skincare solution. 

The study also found: 

• 1 in 3 (37%) of Gen Z are not applying SPF everyday 

• 40% of Gen Z feel too busy to follow a skincare routine

• 40% of Gen Z do not moisturise their skin daily, the most out of any age range

• Affordable price is the most important factor when buying skincare for those between 18 and 25 years-old

• 37% of Gen Z don’t check the expiry date of skincare products

• 27% of Gen Z admit to not taking their makeup off at the end of the day

• Just 13% of 18-25 year-olds admit to being influenced by TikTok into buying skincare, compared to 31% of millennials

• Interestingly, 1 in 4 (23%) Gen Z are looking for products with ‘anti-aging qualities’ as a priority. 

Why do Gen Z feel so overwhelmed when buying skin care products?

In a viral TikTok by user @ellengendlermd, the overcomplication of the skincare market is discussed, with other users running to the comments to agree: “it’s overwhelming”, “facts” and “keep it simple is the best like you said.”

Tropic’s survey found that not only do 38% of Gen Z feel overwhelmed when buying skincare but 1.9 million Gen Z in the UK are spending between £200-£249 EACH YEAR on skincare products. 

However, the study also revealed that half (46%) of Gen Z are expecting to see results from a new skincare product within one week, which could explain why this age group are feeling overwhelmed as unrealistic expectations are being set. 

Gen Z’s biggest skincare mistakes