AI Created My Skincare Routine–Here’s What Happened

AI Created My Skincare Routine for Mature Skin—Here’s What Happened

I love experimenting with new things from new skin care products to AI.  As I have played with chatgpt, I have had a lot of fun learning new things, as well as getting help  on a variety of things, including website issues, business plans and schedules.  However, when it comes to other things like skin care, exercise plans, diets and such, I had been somewhat curious but reticent to try it out.  I figured that it wouldn’t hurt anything to see what chatgpt would come up with, after all, it combs the internet and essentially finds the most popular results- and I don’t have to do any of the recommendations so I figured I’d give it a try.  

Here’s what AI wrote as an opener to this post:  

“In a world where “artificial intelligence” is writing essays, generating art, and helping us plan meals, it was only a matter of time before it turned its digital gaze toward skincare. As someone in her 60s, with changing hormones, evolving skin needs, and a desire to age gracefully—not artificially—Nina decided to hand over the reins to **generative AI** and see what it could do for her complexion.”

The Experiment: Letting AI Build a Routine

I started by feeding an “AI chatbot” my basic information:

– Age, general “skin type” (Normal/slightly dry)

– Key concerns: fine lines, dull skin, occasional dark circles

– Climate and environmental factors (humid spring in Florida)

What came back wasn’t magic—it was logic. But there was something oddly reassuring about how the recommendations were layered and customized. The **skincare industry** often overwhelms with vague promises. This time, the algorithm was straightforward.

The Routine AI Gave Me:

Morning Routine

1. Gentle cleanser – non-stripping, ideal for sensitive skin

2. Vitamin C serum – to brighten skin tone and support collagen

3. Hyaluronic acid serum – for hydration and plumping

4. Eye cream – targeting puffiness and dark circles

5. Best sunscreen – broad-spectrum, mineral-based with moisturizing base

Evening Routine

1. Creamy cleanser to remove sunscreen/makeup

2. Chemical exfoliant (2–3x/week): salicylic acid for mild exfoliation

3. Retinol serum – a low-strength, gradual-release formula for fine lines

4. Barrier-repair moisturizer – with ceramides, peptides, and aloe vera

By contrast, here’s my current skin care routine:

Morning:

I rinse my face with water, and use a moisturizer that has hyaluronic acid, and a variety of peptides and such.  It is moisturizing but works very well with my makeup.  I also use an eye cream, but only occasionally use sunscreen.

Evening Routine:

I use a makeup remover, followed by a gentle face wash, a mild exfoliant a few times a week, and that’s about it.  So there were a few things I could add to my routine–to see whether I might have any improvements.  (I sometimes do more, and other times less with skin care)

The list felt familiar—but refined. No “miracle” cures, just layering the right products with gentle active ingredients. This wasn’t about changing my face. It was about choosing ingredients and products that would enhance it.  The other thing that was interesting is that the AI didn’t give me any brand names to start with.  But all the recommendations were in alightment with my favorite bloggers, YouTubers and my esthetician—so far, so good.

 The Results: 30 Days Later

Did I suddenly look ten years younger? No. But here’s what did happen:

– Dull skin? Noticeably brighter, especially in the mornings. This I attribute to the addition of the vitamin C serum.

– Fine lines? Still there—but less prominent, thanks to better hydration. My skin definitely looks plumper, which makes the fine lines seem less prevalent.

– Dry skin? Dramatically improved. My skin felt softer and looked healthier.

– Emotional fallout from aging? Softened. There was something empowering about having a plan.

The AI didn’t sell me on a 20-step routine or obscure skincare products with “magic” ingredients. It focused on specific needs—similar to when I visit my esthetician.  however, I must say, AI will not be taking over for an experienced esthetician any time soon.  It can’t determine the cause of a problem like flaky skin, for example–so it could assume it is caused by dry skin, where as a dermatologist or esthetician would know if it were a rash, an allergic reaction or dry skin.  So be sure to keep that in mind if you have a problem with your skin, and are looking for solutions or products.   

What Surprised Me Most

– The chatbot asked about weather conditions, UV rays, and even  if I took hot showers, which can damage the skin barrier—details that felt personal and insightful.

– It avoided harsh ingredients and emphasized a smarter approach to long-term skincare.

– The emotional benefit was real: not having to decode another marketing campaign gave me peace of mind.

I also noticed that AI didn’t recommend any of the skin care devices I usually use, like my red-light therapy and ZIIP halo — which I will have to go back and ask about.  One of the things about using AI is that prompts are really important–and I have learned to be very intentional about the prompts.  If I want to allow for an open result, I will ask a more general question, and if I want specific information I will be more specific.  I also notice that the AI makes certain mistakes so it’s important to comb back through and make sure it’s correct before jumping in with both feet.  

And here’s the good news: AI doesn’t replace the human touch—but it can enhance how we care for ourselves, and provide some direction and basic information for us to begin researching and learning.  

 People Often Ask:

Is it safe to let AI recommend skincare products?  

Yes—especially when you cross-check with dermatologists or reputable sources. AI tools can’t diagnose, but they can help you better understand your skin type and create a starting point.

Will AI help with problem areas like fine lines or rosacea-prone skin?  

AI may recommend gentle active ingredients like retinol serum, vitamin C, or aloe vera, depending on your needs—but it won’t prescribe. That’s a dermatologist’s role.

What if I have extremely sensitive or irritated skin?  

Mention it upfront. AI often adjusts for sensitive skin with fragrance-free, non-irritating skincare products and layering routines that help protect the skin barrier.

Do I need to follow the routine exactly?  

Not at all! Think of it as a template. You can tweak it depending on your daily life, budget, and skin’s changing needs.

What kind of ingredients does AI look for in product recommendations?  

Common active ingredients include vitamin C serum, hyaluronic acid, retinol, and salicylic acid—chosen for specific concerns like brightness, hydration, or fine lines.

The Bigger Picture: AI and the Beauty Industry

As a woman over 50, I’ve watched the beauty industry shift from “anti-aging” fear tactics to a more holistic, supportive vibe. And I love that. But it’s still hard to navigate.

That’s where AI technology offers value. It simplifies the noise. It respects your specific skincare products and personalizes a plan based on your life—not a 22-year-old influencer on TikTok.

And this isn’t about replacing your esthetician. It’s about combining your experience with intelligent tools that can help cut through the overwhelm.  

Final Thoughts: Will I Keep the AI Routine?

Yes—mostly. I’ve now personalized it even more. I’ve added a few products back in as I have gotten a bit lazy, and have created a plan that supports healthy skin, and replaced my hot water showers with lukewarm or cold showers a few times a week (my skin really thanked me for that one).

“This experiment taught Nina that artificial intelligence isn’t here to take over—it’s here to listen, learn, and offer a gentler, clearer way forward–at least that’s what it’s saying for now”.   

 I’d still be careful!  It’s all too easy to allow AI to become a crutch rather than doing your own research or even thinking and solving problems on your own.” (This was from the AI–it seems to be self promoting today)

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the skincare regime shuffle, consider letting AI chatbots guide your next morning routine. The worst that can happen? You’ may end up simplifying your cosmetics shelf.  The best? You’ll look in the mirror and feel just a little more seen.

Key Takeaways:

– AI offers a new to skincare personalization–though I would say it won’t take the place of my favorite YouTuber and Esthetician.  

– Good routines don’t have to be complicated—they just need to be *consistent*–the AI was good for streamlining my routine.

– Skincare is self-respect in action. Let tech help, but let *you* lead.

This experience taught me that AI can be a good place to start learning about a subject like skincare, and having it make routines for you to try can be fun–but I think discernment is really important and it’s also important not to let AI become a crutch, but rather a starting place for your research.  

Your Turn: Have you tried AI-created routines? Curious about what it would recommend for your skin? Let me know in the comments—or subscribe for updates on my skincare journey and product reviews tailored to mature skin.