For as long as we can remember, the beauty industry has been brainwashing us into thinking that only a 10-step skincare routine and an absolute ton of serums, toners, and eye creams can do the trick. Lately, however, it seems like the reverse has been the case-the more products we use, the more irritated and problem-prone our skin has become.
This is where skinimalism comes in-a minimalist approach to skincare that emphasizes using only what your skin truly needs.
Here are just a few reasons to consider the minimalist way of approaching beauty:
What, exactly, is this Skinimalism?
The term ‘skinimalism’ is actually a blend of two words ‘skin care’ and ‘minimalism.’ Think minimalism, for your skin! Skinimalism is about rebelling against beauty standards and fully embracing the skin we’re naturally blessed with. Rather than hiding our imperfections we want to let our skin heal, using just the right product just when its needed to achieve a healthy-looking complexion.
Why is skin barrier so important?
The skin barrier is essentially the outermost layer of the skin-our skin’s personal guardian. It’s the key to protecting the skin from harmful pathogens, toxins, & pollutants, while also sealing in its moisture & youthfulness.
What occurs when we give our face about 8-10 different kinds of active ingredients, and multiple chemical peels each month?
The skin becomes too sensitized and irritated,
The skin barrier begins letting foreign substances enter.
Random breakouts and blemishes suddenly appear,
Products become less effective and pointless,
Yes you guessed it, By having a limited amount of product within your skincare routine, you give your skin a chance to finally heal instead of harm its self even further.
Three-serum skincare routine
When it comes to minimalist skincare routines, three are key:
Cleanser -> Hydrator -> Sunscreen
1. Morning Cleanser
Instead of a drying, foaming facewash use something that is both mild and effective. Avoid too much, just twice a day with the right cleanser cleans your face and gets rid of any accumulated dirt and excess oil in your pores.
2. Morning Hydration Cream
For your daytime moisturizer, make it something fairly basic, yet effective. The best option would be something that is either Hyaluronic acid based or Niacinamide based since they both have proven anti-aging and hydrating properties. Most day creams should take the place of about 2-3 serums.
3. Night cream with Sunscreen
It’s essential to use sunscreen daily as it’s the most important element in skin care. If you spend money on only one thing this year, then buy quality sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher-uv exposure has been reported as the primary cause of aging, sunspots, fine lines and uneven texture. Remember to wear sunscreen everyday no matter what the season and no matter the conditions in your location,
Beauty Hack 2-how to actually practice the minimalist routine.
Thinking of switching to the minimalist skincare routine; here are a couple ways you can do it effectively:
Finale Before Buying
Finish what you are currently using up and try to only purchase new products once you have run out and are ready to buy something else.
Listen to your skin
Each season your skin requires different products due to the different weather. On hot summer days you don’t need an intense night cream whereas on a cold winter morning, you will likely require a hydrating face cream. Likewise, you should listen to your skin when it comes to usage of active ingredients;
Tinted products over heavy make-up
Instead of wearing a complete foundation for a complete day or night out wear something simpler, like BB Cream or a tinted moisturizer. They have the capability to hydrate your skin and are perfect to create an even skin tone while keeping your skin barrier safe from harmful products.
Beauty Hack 3-The ‘Minimalist Lifestyle’
The state of your skin is only as healthy as the rest of you. Even with the cleanest and most minimalist skincare routine, your skin will only be as clear and healthy as you allow it to be.
Here are things to do:
Hydration
The act of drinking water is for everybody no matter their gender or age but also their background-you should ensure that everyone ensures they’re staying sufficiently hydrated every single day so that you retain optimal skin texture and clarity.
Eat Clean
Most skin problems are aggravated by the use of processed food. Many individuals find that dairy often exacerbates their skin condition resulting in bad acne breakouts. Eating Clean means an integral part of healthy skin.
Stress levels
When an individual encounters stress, the body begins to produce more cortisol, also known as the stress hormone which causes you to produce more oil within your skin, resulting in breakouts-if you get too stressed, make sure that you’re taking breaks during the day.
Closing Thoughts
Now is the time to ease up on the pressure that you’re putting on your skin; investing in something simple and minimalist, but effective is a beneficial method. You’ll not only save money and protect your skin but also learn how to truly enjoy the process.
