This blog goes hand in hand with our previous blog on minimalist and multipurpose products, so be sure to give it a read.
What is Skinimalism?
Skinimalism is a minimalist response to the extended skincare routine, which has been very popular in recent years because of K Beauty, which uses up to 12 products in a routine, celebrity/influencer skincare routines using loads of different products (which they are paid to promote), as well as company marketing tactics (because they want to sell you more products).
Multi-step routines can be nice to do as it's a whole practice, so if you are someone who destresses and really enjoys the skincare routine process then go for it. But it can backfire; layering lots of products can clog up pores or even harm the skin's delicate microbiome.
- Plus, how do you know which products are working?
- Additionally, it is expensive and time-consuming.
Skinimalism on the other hand, is fairly cost effective in comparison to the hefty price tag of multiple products, and is way quicker than a multi-step routine.
Why choose Skinimalism?
Skinimalism is all about using fewer, but high quality products, in order to achieve the same results as a multi-step routine.
You can also adhere to a more minimalist skincare routine much more easily and consistently than a routine with tons of products.
What do you need to achieve a Skinimalist routine?
Products that:
- Hydrate
- Repair
- Protect
A minimalist skincare routine can be pared down to the bare essentials.
- A Cleanser
- An Active-Packed Serum or Product that targets a Skincare Issue
- A Moisturiser or Oil
- SPF
This is all that is really needed. However it is important to note that one person's essentials may not be considered essential by another person. For example I have dry skin so I don't always use a cleanser, most of the time I only wash my face with water. I also don't wear a lot of makeup - if you do then a cleanser would be a non-negotiable.
Many 'skinimalist' products are also multipurpose. It's what makes them minimalist yet still effective.
The Cleanser
The cleanser can be an oil cleanser, foamy cleanser, clay cleanser, cream cleanser etc, and often this product will be a multipurpose product: eg. cleanse, exfoliate, tone and remove makeup; or a clay cleanser powder can act as a cleanser and a facial mask.
The Serum
You can tailor your serum to your skin's needs: water or oil based, and containing specific actives to target any skin issues you may have. I use a serum (mostly water based) religiously in the mornings and evenings. I find a serum is really my 'base' that hydrates my skin, and then I top it off with a moisturiser. If you just go straight in with a moisturiser after cleansing/toning it just doesn't feel right. My skin definitely needs its little hydrating cocktail!
If you are an ulta minimalist, you may even use your skin serum as a scalp/hair serum (scalp is skin too, and also needs love!). This makes a serum a multipurpose product.
The Moisturiser
A really good moisturiser is vital to optimum skin health. You want one that will nourish and provide enough moisture, but then also seal in the hydration, so it should contain an emollient such as a butter or wax (but it shouldn't feel greasy or heavy).
SPF
SPF is not something that we generally encourage people to make at home. Proper SPF's are clinically tested for efficacy and this is important to prevent sun damage.
Try to go for a high SPF of at least 40-50 for good protection.
