The Case for Minimizing Your Skin Care Routine
Sara Miranda
This past year has made us all rethink how we do a lot of things. Whether it was learning how to save more money or tightening our social circles, these changes all center around one common theme: “less is more.” In fact, this saying even applies to how many are approaching skin care and makeup in 2021. Known as skinimalism, this skin care and makeup routine philosophy embraces using only a few products and steps, rather than a laundry list of cleansers, serums, masks, and treatments. Ahead, find out more about the origins of this trend and which products you need for a skinimalist routine.
How Did Skinimalism Get Its Start?
According to a Pinterest Business Report titled, “Pinterest Predicts 2021,” Pinterest users were frequently using search terms such as “glowing skin how to get naturally” and “natural everyday makeup” in 2020. Therefore, Pinterest arrived at the conclusion that their users are now “letting their natural skin texture shine through” and leaving the idea of using multiple skin care and makeup products behind. A Town and Country report suggests months in lockdown and limited socialization may have piqued skin care enthusiasts’ interest to adapt to this pared-down approach to skin care and makeup.
Are There Any Benefits to Skinimalism?
Though it’s always exciting to try out new skin care and makeup products, toning it down may create less hassle down the road—not only for your skin but for the environment as well. With fewer products in your vanity cabinet, you’ll be less likely to experience an adverse skin reaction, save money, and keep your routine environmentally-friendly, says a Chicago Tribune article.
What Does a Skinimalist Routine Look Like?
A skinimalist approach should begin with a simple skin care regimen that consists of three steps: a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF, a report from Shape explains. Using a facial cleanser serves as the foundation of your skin care routine and rids the skin of “dirt, oil, and other unwanted debris,” according to Texas-based dermatology practice, Westlake Dermatology.
After washing your face, follow with a moisturizer. Applying a moisturizer to your skin post-cleanse mitigates the possibility of experiencing “extreme dryness or oiliness,” states an article from the University of Tennessee Medical Center. Both conditions can lead to the development of acne.
No matter how extensive your skin care routine is, all skin care routines are not complete without SPF, otherwise known as sunscreen. The Skin Cancer Foundation says regularly using sunscreen can curb the early onset of aging—which usually appears in the form of “wrinkles, sagging, and age spots”—and reduces the risk of skin cancer. Make sure to apply sunscreen every morning and not at night. It’s best to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before venturing outside, followed by reapplication every two hours.
The Bottom Line
A skinimalist routine consists of only three products: a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen should be applied in the morning, while cleanser and moisturizer are only needed at night. However, one’s person’s skin care journey is not like the rest. There are many different skin types and skin concerns, so if you’re not sure what your capsule skin care routine should look like, make sure to consult your dermatologist for product recommendations.
