As someone with sensitive skin, I am a bit cautious about what I put on it—especially in today’s world when there is a new product or brand launch every day. Yes, there are times of weakness when I want to give in to that viral launch of the year. But as much as I want to get my hands on the skincare drops of the season, my sensitive skin doesn’t allow it. So, I am left with no choice but to stick to a minimal routine for my skin. Enter skinimalism in my life, which has been taking charge of my skincare routine for a long time. Little did I know that what I was practising would be one of the biggest trends skincare has ever seen.
Here, we break down the trend for you from the whos to whats. Take notes.
WHAT IS SKINIMALISM?
“Skinimalism is a beauty trend that emphasises simplifying your skincare routine to use fewer but more effective products. It is about the “less is more” approach, where each product serves a significant purpose. This trend has been the backbone for us at Gunam Beauty, where we focus on a holistic approach towards beauty and wellness and nurturing the skin without overwhelming it with excessive products,” says Elizabeth Issac, Founder of Gunam Beauty, on how the trend is not just about lesser products but is also purpose-driven.
A solid routine with multi-functional products can address multiple concerns simultaneously, making your skincare routine easy and practical without sacrificing time or quality. This trend also makes up for an ideal choice for busy, on-the-go women who might have time to invest in an extensive skincare routine.
HOW TO TO BE “SKINIMALIST”?
“The easiest way to a more minimalist approach to skincare is first to identify a maximum of 2-3 skin concerns and find products to help you target those. Also, consider using multitasking products that can get you multiple results for instance, our Siriusly Brightening serum targets hyperpigmentation while providing hydration,” says Divya Rai, Founder of Friday Feeling. For her, it not only saves time but also prevents wastage. It is less likely to overcomplicate your routine, which can sometimes worsen your skin concerns. “For instance, if one uses too many actives, they can cause skin barrier concerns or even counteract each other. When you buy fewer, higher quality products, you’re less likely to throw stuff out because you couldn’t finish them before they expire”, she adds.
To follow a minimal skincare routine, choose quality over quantity. Select high-quality multitasking products that can give the benefits of two or more products and address multiple skin needs. Look for products such as face or body moisturisers with SPF, serums that serve various concerns, face oils that hydrate and cleanse, tinted moisturisers, foundations with SPF, etc.
MAKING THE SWITCH
“For maximalists looking to adopt skinimalism, the transition involves paring down their routine to a few essential, high-quality products. Start by identifying multi-functional products that address multiple skin concerns,” says Dr. Pooja Shah Talera of Kosa. “All skincare routines must be streamlined to be efficacious — less pilling, more absorption, and better compliance. At Gunam, we emphasise products that support a healthy skin barrier and overall skin health, adhering to the Credo Clean Standard to ensure safe and effective formulations. Gradually reduce the number of products, focusing on those that truly benefit your skin.” adds Issac.
HOW TO BUILD A MINIMALIST ROUTINE?
With so many products available on the market, it’s essential to identify your skincare essentials and use them effectively on your face, neck and lips. Pranauthi Sangisetti, Founder of Dab to Fab, says, “Giving the right food in the right quantity is always a good ratio to feed the skin. Keeping this in mind, we should have a synergistic blend of multi-gentle ingredients with a smart and preventable approach rather than rushing and compromising the skin.” Isaac seconds the sentiment. “A minimalist skincare regimen could include a gentle cleanser to cleanse without stripping the skin’s natural oils or a targeted cleanser like a salicylic acid cleanser for acne-prone skin. A moisturizer to hydrate and protect the skin barrier, sunscreen to protect against UV damage, and a multi-functional serum or toner to address specific skin concerns like hydration, brightening, or anti-ageing.
Many brands are adopting cleaner practices to align with consumers’ growing awareness and preferences, as skinimalism promotes overall health and sustainability. “This also benefits the environment since you’re less likely to fall for gimmicky sales and buy more than you need, thus avoiding wastage,” says Rai.
Also Read:
Confessions of a Lipstick Addict & the 9 Best Ones to Get This #NationalLipstickDay2024
Does dry brushing alleviate stress? Here’s how to do it
