Many people spend a lot of money on skin care while living in the U.S.

At first, they often hear things like, "This dermatologist is famous," "One laser treatment can make a big difference," or "You need to go to an aesthetician for proper care," and end up trying various treatments.

However, when you listen to people's stories, they often return to the basics. Whether male or female, the foundation of skin care is ultimately the most important.

In Korea, the beauty industry is so developed that there are many steps and an overwhelming number of products. Toners, essences, serums, ampoules, eye creams, sleeping packs... it can be quite overwhelming.

Many people bring that same habit to the U.S., but in reality, skin care doesn't need to be that complicated in many cases.

Especially since many areas in the U.S. have drier water and stronger sunlight than Korea, applying too many products can damage the skin barrier.

I often see cases where people want better skin, so they buy expensive cosmetics, undergo laser treatments, and sign up for skin care clinics.

But after a few months, their skin becomes sensitive. It gets red, dry, and even a single product can sting.

Then, when they consult a dermatologist, the advice is often, "First, stop everything and just use a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen."

Isn't that funny? They spend thousands of dollars only to be told to go back to the basics.

In fact, skin care is quite similar for both men and women. Cleansing properly, maintaining moisture, protecting against UV rays, getting enough sleep, and drinking plenty of water are the basics.

If you don't have these basics down, no matter how expensive the treatments, they won't last long. Especially since the sun in the U.S. is stronger than you might think.

If you live in California, UV rays can age your skin very quickly. So, the most important thing is sunscreen, not expensive serums.

Dermatologists always say, "The key to anti-aging is UV protection."

And when you look at men, they often say, "I don't do skin care," but in reality, just shaving properly and moisturizing can make a big difference in their appearance.

Many men in the U.S. with good skin don't do anything special. Just a gentle cleanser, one moisturizer, and sunscreen. That's about it.

Women are the same. Especially after turning 40, it's much more important to focus on reducing irritation rather than applying a lot of products.

The skin doesn't recover as quickly as it did when it was younger. Too strong peels, excessive laser treatments, and frequent procedures can often make the skin thinner and more sensitive.

So, when you see people with good skin, their routines are simple. They cleanse well, moisturize properly, consistently apply sunscreen, get enough sleep, and lead a lifestyle that reduces stress.

Honestly, skin is greatly affected by lifestyle habits. Lack of sleep, high stress, frequent drinking, and consuming too many sweets will show on your skin immediately.

Conversely, even without expensive cosmetics, drinking plenty of water, sleeping well, and living regularly can make your skin look much more stable.

Especially since American food tends to be salty, sweet, and greasy, many people notice a difference in their skin just by changing their eating habits a little.

Skin doesn't change overnight; ultimately, what lasts is basic living and foundational care.

In the end, skin care is about having a good cleanser, a moisturizer that suits your skin, and the habit of consistently applying sunscreen.

In fact, many people who stick to just these basics for a few years often have the best-looking skin.

In the U.S., it's especially common to see people who spend money following trends only to end up with sensitive skin and an empty wallet.

So, as I get older, I realize that those who do the basics consistently win over those who do a lot.