Tia Zakher’s “Caveman” Skincare Routine Went Viral

Move over 10-step routines, Tia Zakher is giving minimalism a whole new meaning. The 22-year-old TikToker has the internet spiraling after going totally off the grid with her skincare — we’re talking no cleanser, no moisturizer, not even water. Yep, it’s called the “Caveman” routine, and yes, your esthetician is probably sweating.

Tia first ditched all products back in March, hoping to undo years of skin damage from over-exfoliating and product hopping (relatable). Since then, she’s let her skin do its thing, sans interference.

“My skincare routine was all over the place,” she told PEOPLE. “I was trying so many different things and doing so many different things. I was never consistent because I was just in this vicious cycle, and I didn’t know how to get out of it.”

Still, the visuals threw people off. Dry patches, discoloration, and some flaky texture had the skincare police out in full force. But Tia was unbothered, explaining it’s called retention hyperkeratosis — a fancy derm term for your skin not shedding dead cells properly.

Of course, dermatologists have opinions. Dr. Rachel Nazarian, a board-certified derm, explained that Zakher is likely experiencing an intense version of retention hyperkeratosis.

“It’s a classic example of what happens when you neglect skin and let nature overrun your face and leave inflammation unchecked, ” Nazarian shared.

Tia’s not totally anti-products forever though. She’s already thinking about reintroducing water into her routine soon (progress!) and maybe, just maybe, bringing in a moisturizer if all goes well. But for now? She’s vibing with her natural oils and embracing the slow journey to skin healing.

And hey, whether you’re a skincare maximalist or curious about this caveman-core vibe, we can all agree: doing what feels right for your skin is the ultimate glow-up.