The era of the multi-step skincare routine—whether it was the influence of Korean beauty or the extra coddling we craved during Covid—now appears to be dying out and more power-packed formulations that will achieve multiple goals are gaining traction. “I would say it was a very motivated patient that wanted to follow those routines,” says Toronto-based dermatologist Dr. Geeta Yadav. 

Yadav says the shift toward using fewer products might be due to seasonal shifts, noting that people dislike layering thick products in sticky weather, for example. However, she also believes this trend is due to a lack of patience among consumers. “Layering upwards of five or 10 products requires a lot of wait time to allow each step to be absorbed,” she says. “And for most people, it’s just not realistic to spend 30 to 40 minutes once or twice daily on a routine.”

With a desire to minimize and streamline regimens comes an increased demand for products that achieve more than one benefit in a single application. And it could explain why multipurpose products are flooding the shelves this fall. As far as Yadav is concerned, products that go beyond just nourishing skin are ideal for getting results. The newest serums, for example, contain powerful ingredients like retinol, peptides, and niacinamide. 

As it turns out, too many steps can be too much of a good thing for many people, says Simon Tooley, president of Etiket, a luxury beauty retailer and spa with locations in Toronto and Montreal: “More and more of our clients are looking to simplify their routines without compromising results. The previous trend of multi-step regimens often ended up being too much for some people’s skin.” 

From a skin health perspective, fewer steps and products is something Yadev can get behind because it means a lower likelihood of adverse reactions or sensitivities. “Not everyone is checking to ensure the ingredients in a routine are compatible with one another, and not all skin can handle so many layers of products—there can be an increased risk of comedogenicity or pore congestion when putting on lots of formulas.” 

Using less can also help determine what is really working for your skin. “If you’re seeing very satisfying results—or disappointing ones—it is often easier to identify which product is responsible in a smaller routine,” she says. 

Lastly, fewer steps will appeal to our lazy tendencies. “Patients are more likely to follow a quick and easy skincare routine than one that is time-consuming or complex, and using products consistently is key to seeing results,” Yadav explains.

5 new multipurpose skincare products

This new, minimalist approach delivers results without sacrifice. These multitaskers are formulated to get the job done in fewer steps.

Merit Great Skin Double Cleanse, CAD $44, mertibeauty.com

The bi-phase cleanser aims to replace the idea of a double cleanse, breaking down sunscreen and makeup as well as gently exfoliating with gluconolactone for clean skin that feels soft.

Fenty Skin Dew N Plump, CAD $52, fentybeauty.com

Loaded with superhydrating ingredients like polyglutamic and hyaluronic acids, as well as panthenol to strengthen the barrier and niacinamide to brighten, this multi-benefit serum delivers immediate moisture and glow. 

Clarins Multi Active Glow Serum, CAD $80, clarins.ca

Stabilized Vitamin C is combined with glycolic acid for a one-two punch of gentle exfoliation and skin brightening antioxidant power. 

Âdese Âscend Serum Moisturizer, CAD $128, adeseskin.com 

This three-in-one serum, moisturizer and oil hydrates, reinforces the skin barrier, protects against oxidative damage and improves radiance with bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative, and niacinamide.

Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Peptide Firming Eye Serum, CAD $55, paulaschoice.com

This all-in-one eye treatment addresses three concerns at once, utilizing a powerful blend of four peptides to effectively reduce puffiness while smoothing and hydrating the skin.