Scientist Eve Mérinville Says 'Skincare Isn't a Math Competition' and Why Less Can Equal More

Skincare meets science! Eve Mérinville is known for taking a research-backed, biological approach to beauty. But while science has a permanent place in her skincare routine, the numbers don't always tell the whole story.

In fact, when it comes to achieving a healthy glow, Mérinville believes doing less can actually deliver more.

"People are often paying a premium for complexity: long routines, trend-led launches, and formulas packed with a very high number of active ingredients. But more ingredients, more steps, and a higher price don't automatically lead to better results," she tells ET.

"We're also seeing an arms race around percentages of a particular ingredient, as if a higher concentration were automatically better, but skincare isn't a math competition. The highest percentage isn't necessarily the most effective. … Ultimately, great skincare isn’t about having the biggest number on the label. … Sometimes, a higher concentration can simply mean a greater risk of irritation, rather than better results," she adds.

Instead of piling on the products, Mérinville, Comfort Zone's R&D Innovation and Excellence Director, is focused on how ingredients are effectively delivered to the skin — a topic she broke down at The Comfort Zone Longevity Masterclass on Sept. 15 at Glen Ivy Hot Springs in Temescal Valley, California.

"Longevity means correcting without being aggressive, while respecting and strengthening the skin barrier. It also means supporting the skin's natural ability to renew and regenerate through targeted action on key biological processes, including the microbiome, collagen production, and cellular renewal," the expert explains.

And according to Mérinville, nurturing your complexion is key.

"As a biologist, I see an interesting parallel with regenerative agriculture. Healthy soil is the foundation of a healthy ecosystem. Rather than constantly adding more to the plant, regenerative agriculture focuses on restoring the soil and creating the right conditions for it to function naturally. The same principle applies to skin," she notes.

A flawless face, it turns out, starts from the ground up.

"Skincare is a moment to pause, reconnect with ourselves, and support our well-being physically and mentally. … Our skin is more like a garden than a canvas. Skincare nourishes and protects the leaves, flowers and fruits, while sleep, nutrition and lifestyle nurture the soil."

For Mérinville, though, what's sitting on your vanity is only part of the equation.

"Beauty goes beyond aesthetics. It means taking a science-based, holistic approach to skin health, longevity and, ultimately, quality of life. Like Comfort Zone, Glen Ivy recognizes the regenerative power of nature and its ability to benefit the skin, body and mind. This is what their guests are looking for: a chance to recover from stress, reconnect with themselves, and feel better overall."

Just as important as knowing what to add to your regimen? Knowing what to leave out.

"The biggest culprits are often habits that seem deeply cleansing, detoxifying, or highly effective like using very hot water, harsh cleansers that strip away the skin’s natural oils, overly aggressive acids that weaken the skin barrier, too frequent scrubs or peels, and layering several strong actives. … Healthy skin isn't skin that is constantly stimulated. It is skin that can maintain its functions, resilience, and balance over time."

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