1. Read the Ingredient List, Not the Label Claims

Terms like "clean," "natural," and "non-toxic" sound reassuring, but none of them are regulated by the FDA. What actually matters is what's inside the bottle and how it's formulated.

According to the FDA Cosmetic Labeling Guide, brands can use marketing language freely as long as it's not misleading—but that doesn't mean those terms guarantee safety or results. Instead, focus on the actual ingredient list and formulation quality. Other tips to keep in mind: 

• Check for potential irritants. Added fragrance, essential oils, and high concentrations of drying alcohols (like denatured alcohol or SD alcohol) can trigger contact dermatitis symptoms like dryness, redness, or irritation—especially during winter when your skin barrier may already be compromised. Learn more about the best (and worst) skincare ingredients and how Curology selects the ingredients for its products here.

• Look for balanced formulas. Quality skincare sets should include gentle surfactants in cleansers (like sodium cocoyl isethionate instead of harsh sulfates) and humectants in moisturizers to draw water into skin (like glycerin or hyaluronic acid). When choosing a sunscreen, opt for broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. The American Academy of Dermatology emphasizes that broad-spectrum protection guards against both UVA rays (which cause aging) and UVB rays (which cause burning).

• Check for ingredients that could clog pores. It is important to review any products for ingredients that are known to be comedogenic or potentially pore-clogging. To help others review their products for these ingredients, we created this helpful guide.

2. Match the Set to a Routine, Not a Trend

Many gift sets are designed to look complete, but may not contain all the essentials. A truly useful kit should include products to help cover the dermatologist-approved basics:

1. Cleanse: Remove oil and debris without stripping skin.

2. Treat: While not every set includes active ingredients, treating problem areas with active ingredients is an important factor when considering a set, if available and recommended by your dermatology provider

3. Moisturize:  Support barrier function and hydration.

4. Protect: The American Academy of Dermatology recommends always finishing with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. 

Everything beyond those steps (such as toners, masks, peels, etc.) should be optional, not essential.

3. Know What “For All Skin Types” Really Means Few products truly work for everyone. Determining your skin type can help you decide which products to use, but it’s a moving target. Skin type can change seasonally or with age. It can even change from week to week. 

Different skin types might need different formulations. Here are some general guidelines to keep in mind:

• Dry skin generally needs richer creams with barrier-supporting ingredients like ceramides, fatty acids, or squalane.

• Oily or breakout-prone skin typically does better with lightweight gels or lotions that are non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. Look for ingredients like niacinamide, which can help reduce oil production.

• Sensitive skin may be more easily irritated and tends to need fragrance-free formulas and no harsh exfoliants. Patch-test new products on a small area first, especially if you have a history of reactions.

If a brand doesn't disclose whether its products are non-comedogenic, that's a red flag for acne-prone skin. Remember, you can use this guide to review your products for ingredients known to clog pores.

4. Avoid Ingredient Overlap

Buying a set that combines a retinol serum, an exfoliating toner, and a vitamin C treatment might sound advanced, but layering too many actives at once can compromise your moisture barrier and cause more problems than it solves.

The American Academy of Dermatology warns that doubling up on exfoliants or retinoids can contribute to dryness, peeling, and increased sensitivity. Over-exfoliation can compromise the skin barrier, leading to redness and leaving the skin feeling “tight.” 

Simplify your approach: 

• Introduce one new active at a time.

• Start with two to three times per week, then gradually increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. This approach can help the skin adjust better than trying five new products simultaneously.

• Give your skin at least a few weeks to adjust before adding something new.

If you're unsure which actives are right for your skin or how to layer them correctly, Curology's licensed dermatology providers can offer personalized guidance based on your skin type, concerns, and tolerance. When you subscribe, you can message your dermatology provider anytime and have your routine sent straight to your door.

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Get your personalized skincare routine with Curology

Start your skin quiz

Curology’s Take At Curology, we believe great skincare isn’t about buying more—it’s about choosing right. Every product in our core routine (from our Gentle Cleanser to our rich Cream Moisturizer) is formulated to be non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and gentle enough for sensitive skin. We design routines to be simple and effective, so you're not guessing which product does what.

Looking for a thoughtful gift designed and tested by dermatologists? Our Curology Starter Set includes three dermatologist-approved essentials:

• Gentle Cleanser: Wash away dirt and excess oil without stripping skin or clogging pores. The lightly foaming gel is made for all skin types but is especially loved by those with sensitive skin.

• Gel Moisturizer: Give your skin a quick boost of hydration with a lightweight, buildable formula that easily works into your skin and routine—perfect for everyday use.

• Emergency Spot Patch: These hydrocolloid patches provide support for surprise blemishes and protect against picking and popping.

It's a simple starter set that covers the essentials without overwhelming anyone's bathroom shelf.

And when you're ready to level up beyond the basics, Curology’s licensed dermatology providers can prescribe a personalized prescription treatment, such as Custom Formula Rx—designed to target acne, dark spots, fine lines, or uneven texture with clinically proven active ingredients like tretinoin, azelaic acid, or tranexamic acid. Our providers can also help you understand which active ingredients are right for your skin and how to introduce them correctly into your routine.

Great skincare isn't about buying more products. It's about using the right ones, guided by science and personalized to your skin's actual needs.

Your Curology formula can be adjusted as your skin changes, because prescription skincare should evolve with you, not stay static in a gift set.

FAQ

How do I know if a skincare set is actually worth buying?

Check the products to be sure they include key ingredients relevant to your skin concerns. Make sure it covers the basics—cleanse, moisturize, protect— and verify that products are non-comedogenic and fragrance-free if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.

Can I use multiple active ingredients from a gift set at once?

It is generally not recommended to start multiple new products with active ingredients at once. Layering multiple exfoliants, retinoids, or acids increases your risk of irritation and barrier damage. Introduce one active at a time, starting slowly, and give your skin at least a few weeks to adjust before adding another.

What's the difference between "clean" skincare and dermatologist-recommended skincare?

"Clean" is an unregulated marketing term with no FDA definition. Dermatologist-recommended skincare generally relies on clinically proven ingredients, appropriate concentrations, and formulations that support skin barrier health, regardless of whether they're synthetic or naturally derived.

How long does it take to see results from a new skincare routine?

In general, most people might see measurable progress in six to twelve weeks with consistent use of a new skincare routine. Skin cell turnover takes about 28 days, so patience is essential. When starting prescription treatments, most patients start seeing results within the first 4-6 weeks, but it usually takes several months to see the full benefit of treatment

Should I buy a skincare set or build my own routine?

Build your own if you know your skin type and concerns. Gift sets can be convenient, but they're often designed for mass appeal rather than your specific needs. Prescription skincare from licensed providers like those at Curology offers the most personalized approach and care.

Written by

Curology Team

Medically reviewed by

Elise Griffin, PA-C