The FIFA World Cup 2022 has finally kicked off in Qatar and football fever is sweeping through the nation. While the whole world is going soccer-crazy, we thought this might be the ideal time to take a step back and analyze the new trend in skincare called “Skinimalism”. Skincare trends come and go, from Kim Kardashian’s 9-step routine to the 1-step Vaseline trend on TikTok. Skinimalism is one you might not have heard of yet.
During the pandemic, most beauty salons were closed and people took a more hands-on approach to their skincare. They typically fall into 2 separate camps–those who overdo the home care routine and have a bathroom cabinet of almost every lotion and potion available (yes, that’s me!) and those who decided whilst working from home, going makeup and lotion-free was the way forward.
Skinimalism is a skincare routine middle ground. Let’s take a closer look at what it’s all about.
Skinimalism as the word suggests means incorporating the idea of minimalism into your beauty practices, less is more as a rule for your skincare. No more caking on makeup or layering too many products as this will inevitably cause skin irritation and more problems, we need to allow our skin to breathe.
Where should you start?
Dermatologists and skincare experts both agree that you need to make sure your skin is balanced and hydrated, and then take a closer look at your skin and address each problem area one at a time. Make sure you take selfies and check on progress as many issues can take several weeks to see a visible improvement.
Step 1 – Oil-based cleanser to remove dirt
Oil cleansing was the grounding step of the previously trending Korean 10-step skincare routine and breaks down oil-based makeup, sunscreen, and pollutants while being gentle on the skin. It protects the skin’s natural protective barrier and helps maintain a healthy balance.
How to
Gently rub the oil in circular motions for 2-3 mins, adding water to emulsify. This will also increase blood flow to the skin to encourage cell rejuvenation, leaving your skin bright and healthy. Ensure you mix your chosen essential oils with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut to avoid skin irritation and allergic reactions. There are also great oil cleansers available, such as Mirah Luminous Cleansing Oil.
Step 2 – Vitamin C Serum
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that works to stimulate collagen production in your skin. It can fight fine lines and smooth the skin’s surface to reduce dullness giving the skin a youthful glow.
How to
Squeeze 3 to 4 drops of serum onto your fingertips and gently pat into your skin, the molecules will be easily absorbed.
Step 3 – Moisturize
This step is vital to lock in the Vitamin C goodness. As a general rule If you have oily skin, use a light, lotion-based moisturizer or if you have dry skin a heavy cream-based moisturizer will prevent your skin from feeling irritated.
How to
Take a small amount, pat into your face, and gently massage in a circular motion for 5 -10 mins.
Step 4 – Sunscreen
Experts agree that wearing sunscreen is one of the best — and easiest — ways to protect your skin’s appearance and health at any age and remains dermatologists’ favorite tool for protecting skin from cancer and signs of aging.
How to
Gently pat the product into your face remembering to cover your neck and jawline as well.
At bedtime, you can add serums that target specific conditions you want to treat and swap out the sunscreen for a night cream as while you are resting the skin will absorb up to 60% more nutrients.
These are the 4 steps to skinimalism and by tailoring your skincare routine to specific conditions you don’t need ten products to have good skin you just need a few that work for you.
