Summer 2025 skincare trends, reviewed by a Derm

When it comes to trends, skincare moves fast. But do social media’s most viral ingredients, products and hacks really work? Are they safe and backed by science? We asked Dermatica’s Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Shendy Engelina, to share her professional expertise on the myths and misconceptions surrounding some of the biggest skincare trends this summer.

Myth #1: Salmon sperm is the secret to glass skin

Dr Shendy says: “Salmon sperm facials are also known as polynucleotide treatments. Polynucleotides are basically the building blocks of DNA. It is believed that they can help stimulate the production of new blood vessels, collagen and skin cells – which help give the skin a plumper, healthier and more hydrated appearance. In countries where the use of salmon sperm extract has been approved, it is injected into the skin, but this is not FDA approved yet. Here in the US, it is applied topically after microneedling treatments.

Like with other skincare trends, more studies are needed to see if it actually works. When applied topically, it’s not going to have the same effect as when injected, or when combined with other practices like microneedling. A 2024 review of polynucleotides found some significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration, while others reported limited or no benefits. As always, we recommend proven skincare ingredients like retinoids which have robust clinical evidence that could deliver excellent results without the use of salmon sperm.”

Myth #2: The caveman routine is the ultimate reset for upset skin

Dr Shendy says: “Along with many others, I’ve been following this case on TikTok. In response to many years of skin picking, acne and scarring, a woman decided to forgo all skin care products – including face washing – something which she is calling her caveman regimen. If you’ve seen the ‘after’ pictures, you’ll know that this TikToker’s skin has not responded well to being neglected, with extremely dry, discolored patches almost entirely covering her face.

I’ve met so many patients over the years who – after failed attempts to treat their skin – lost faith in products and wanted to try something radical. So I can really empathize with this. However, this course of action is not something myself or any other dermatologist would recommend. Without the correct skincare ingredients:
The original concerns will remain untreated
Leaving the skin without hydration, UV protection or the natural cell turnover that comes with cleansing, will only add to the discomfort and potential skin damage.

As this woman specifically wanted to ‘regenerate her skin’ – the last thing she should do is stop cleansing it. Removing the dead skin cells through gentle cleansing and exfoliation is essential in order to make room for the healthy new skin underneath. Acne-prone skin like hers will often need extra help to encourage skin cell turnover (i.e. regeneration) because natural shedding is often sluggish or uneven. And active ingredients like retinoids have been proven for decades to deliver that end result.”

Myth #3: Matcha is a skincare superfood

Dr Shendy says: “Matcha is believed to be beneficial for the skin because it is naturally high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are important in skincare because they help protect the skin from free radical damage – caused by pollution, UV exposure, smoking and stress – which can lead to accelerated skin aging. Interestingly many of the matcha products I’ve come across have been cleansers and wash-off treatments, which wouldn’t deliver the antioxidants into the skin in the same way a serum or mask might.

If you’ve found matcha skincare that feels good to use and has been tested on skin to assess its safety – then do it. However, if your primary goal is antioxidant protection, there are well-studied, evidence-backed ingredients that are proven to deliver results such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), ferulic acid, niacinamide, and Vitamin E. These have stronger clinical support for protecting the skin from oxidative stress and improving overall skin health.