A new skincare trend on TikTok is telling people to use multiple serums in one routine for faster, more dramatic results. The trend, called “over-seruming,” says that mixing together several actives, such as vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, peptides, and exfoliating acids, makes skin glow, clears up acne, and reverses signs of aging faster. But dermatologists are now speaking out, saying that this viral trend might be doing a lot more harm than good.
What is the “over-seruming” trend?
People usually use three to six serums one after the other, often without knowing how the active ingredients work together. TikTok creators who promote the routine say that mixing products makes them work better, but experts say that many of the combinations can be irritating or even harmful. Serums are meant to deliver very concentrated ingredients, so you should only use them when you need to and not just put them on top of each other.
Why Dermatologists Are Worried
Dermatologists say that using too many strong actives can damage the skin barrier, which can cause redness, burning, peeling, breakouts, and long-term sensitivity. Mixing certain ingredients, like retinol with exfoliating acids or several antioxidants, can make irritation worse. Some of them might cancel each other out. Dermatologists also say that putting on too many layers stops the skin from absorbing the product properly, which means that users may be wasting it without seeing real results.
Things You Shouldn’t Mix Together
Experts point out a few risky combinations that are common in videos of people overdoing it. Using retinol with AHAs or BHAs can cause a lot of irritation. Combining vitamin C with niacinamide may make the antioxidant less stable, which would make it less effective. Combining two or more exfoliating serums can cause chemical burns. Even safe ingredients like hyaluronic acid can cause problems when used too much, like trapping moisture wrong and making things sticky or pill.
How to Make a Safe and Useful Routine
Dermatologists say you should stick to one or two serums at most and focus on specific skin problems instead of following the latest trends. They say to slowly add new actives, starting with low concentrations, and only use exfoliants a few times a week. The best and safest way to take care of your skin is still a simple routine that includes a cleanser, treatment serum, moisturizer, and sunscreen. If you’re not sure what ingredients are best for your skin type, a dermatologist can help.
The Bottom Line
The TikTok “over-seruming” trend may look good and promise quick fixes, but skin care experts say that more is not always better. Putting too many actives on the skin can throw off its delicate balance, making things worse instead of better. You don’t need to follow viral trends to get healthy, glowing skin. A simple, personalized routine is the best way to do it.