Skin minimalism, aka “skinimalism”, is one of beauty’s biggest trends in the last couple of years, but what exactly is it?
Over the last year, our approach to beauty changed drastically. We invested more time into our skincare routines, mostly relegated the need for make-up and started viewing our routines as a form of self-care.
On top of that, it is time we become mindful consumers and at the same time do good to our skin. Skin minimalism is the way to be both, remain a skincare enthusiast and respect our planet too.
A large reason behind the shift is, of course, the Covid-19 pandemic - industry experts believe we’ll see an impact from the pandemic on the industry for years to come.
The pandemic has sped up trends that were quietly rising, including minimalism and conspicuous consumption over the last year.
Let's consider the key elements to following a skinimalist routine – plus, a few products suggestions that can help you achieve it.
First of all, gone are the days of a huge, multi-step skincare routine. “Less, but better” is an adage that describes the concept of skin minimalism in its true sense.
Of course, the quest for happier, healthier skin will require the aid of a few products. But that’s not to say you have to chuck the whole bathroom cabinet onto your face.
One of the most important steps in any skincare routine is cleansing. Without a clean, fresh starting point, the following steps in your skincare routine won’t be able to penetrate the skin as effectively as possible. Massage your face for at least a minute to ensure a thorough cleanse with the use of a facial oil.
Just as a side note for your pared-back skincare routine: Facial massage is a great way to make skin appear more radiant and plump without the use of many products. In fact, all you need is a face oil to provide slip so you aren’t causing friction and dragging against your skin.
The next important step which is scientifically proven to give results - exfoliation. This is the procedure of eliminating your dead skin cells. This technique is highly recommended by dermatologists because it makes your skin look brighter and improves other effective skincare products’ viability by upgrading retention. AHA is recommended for normal, dry and sensitive skin while BHA for oily or acne-prone skin.
Like everything else, your skin too needs hydration. Most experts advise using a hydrator with barrier repair benefits, preferably with essential fatty acids. This ensures your skin barrier - aka your acid mantle - can repair (if damaged) and remain healthy. This in turn will seal in moisture, prevent clogged pores and reduce sensitivity, to name a few benefits.
The final step in your minimal skincare routine should be a serum, preferably Vitamin C based with a strong antioxidant component. Vitamin C and antioxidants are two more skincare ingredients that have been scientifically proven to have skin benefits. Both ingredients have been shown to reduce hyperpigmentation, minimise the appearance of fine lines, significantly brighten the tone of your skin and fight premature aging.
Skin minimalism is here to stay we hope, emphasizes embracing your own skin and allowing it to be the centre of attention rather than hiding behind layers of makeup. We love that it allows your natural features and complexion to be your hero appearance rather than masking perceived "flaws" like natural freckles.
Trying a new skincare routine can be daunting. Who knows how your skin is going to react! Will it even work? Is it the right kind of skincare for your skin goals?
What you may or may not know, if that your skin can actually get worse before it gets better, when switching to a new active skincare routine. but how do you know if it is a breakout or skin purging?