In a world where social media reigns supreme and the pressure to look picture-perfect is ever-present, it's no surprise that beauty trends can take some unexpected turns. The latest phenomenon sweeping through the ranks of Gen Z is a testament to this, with young people prioritizing their appearance upon waking to such an extent that they're willing to sacrifice intimate moments with their partners. This trend, known as the 'morning shed,' has experts raising their eyebrows and cautioning against the potential downsides.


The 'morning shed' involves a meticulous nighttime beauty routine, where individuals use a variety of products and techniques, such as hair rollers, mouth guards, and chin straps, all in the pursuit of waking up looking their absolute best. The trend has gained traction on platforms like TikTok, where thousands of videos showcase the elaborate rituals of dedicated followers. But while the routines may be visually captivating, they've prompted a discussion among skincare professionals about the efficacy and potential risks of such extensive practices.


Katy Bacon, a dermal therapist and education director for Murad, has voiced concerns about the one-size-fits-all approach to skincare that these trends often promote. She emphasizes that skincare needs vary greatly with age and that what may be suitable for someone in their 20s could be inappropriate for someone in their 50s. Bacon urges caution, suggesting that many viral skincare trends lack scientific backing and may be driven more by marketing hype than actual results.


Echoing Bacon's sentiments, Melbourne dermal clinician James Vivian warns against untested techniques that may not only be ineffective but could also disrupt sleep—a critical component of skin and overall health. Vivian advocates for simplicity in skincare, advising people to stick to proven ingredients and essential steps like cleansing, hydrating, and applying sunscreen.

The 'morning shed' trend also raises questions about the impact of beauty routines on personal relationships. Daisy, a 24-year-old Gen Zer, shared with Dazed how her 'non-negotiable' routine often leads to arguments with her boyfriend, as it leaves no time for cuddling or intimacy. This prioritization of appearance over connection is a concerning development, highlighting the intense pressure young people face to conform to beauty standards, even at the cost of their relationships.

Hannah English, a pharmaceutical scientist and author of 'Your Best Skin,' points out the potentially harmful messaging behind the trend. The idea of 'going to bed ugly' to 'wake up hot' suggests a relentless pursuit of beauty that doesn't even pause during rest. English criticizes the use of unnecessary and unproven products, such as overnight sheet masks, mouth tape, and chin straps, which promise beauty benefits without any scientific support.


Instead of succumbing to the allure of these viral trends, English, along with Vivian and Bacon, recommends focusing on high-quality skincare products formulated with effective ingredients tailored to individual skin types and concerns. A simplified routine that includes cleansing, treatment with serums, moisturizing, and sunscreen application can yield the best results without compromising comfort or sleep.

As we at the Seniors Discount Club reflect on these developments, it's important to remember that beauty is not just skin deep. While it's natural to want to look our best, it's crucial to find a balance that doesn't sacrifice our well-being or relationships. Let's encourage the younger generation to embrace their natural beauty and to prioritize self-care practices that are sustainable, scientifically sound, and conducive to a healthy lifestyle.
We'd love to hear your thoughts on this trend. Have you noticed similar beauty routines among the younger people in your life? How do you balance the desire to look good with the importance of sleep and personal connections? Share your insights and experiences in the comments below!