Why Should You Use Fewer Skincare Products?

0
213

With multi-step skincare routines on the rise, beginners may feel like they need to splurge on beauty products and overcomplicate theirs. They invest in creams, serums, exfoliators, and more to achieve great skin.

In reality, skincare is all about product quality and routine consistency. Skincare products come with different concentrations of ingredients that treat certain skin types. As such, it’s essential to do a patch test first when buying skincare products to know which formulas your skin will benefit from in the long run.

Here’s everything you need to know to achieve youthful and radiant skin with fewer skincare products.

What is Skin Minimalism?

Skinimalism is the combination of the words “skin” and “minimalism.” It’s a practice that promotes using fewer skincare products while still efficiently nourishing and protecting the skin. Skinimalism also encourages using less makeup to slow signs of aging, prevent breakouts, and allow the skin to breathe.

Benefits of adopting skinimalism

Skinimalism is not another beauty fad. It’s a simple approach that highlights or brings back your skin’s natural beauty. Here are some reasons you should try out skinimalism and simplify your skincare routine.

  1. Protects skin from irritation
    Using too many products on your face, especially those with acids and actives, can cause skin irritation. The frequency of using skincare products can also harm your skin and worsen skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and rosacea.

    For example, over-exfoliating your skin with multiple acids and mechanical beads can cause irritation, dryness, and worsened breakouts. You can treat your skin more gently using fewer but more suitable products.

  2. Reduces costs
    Skinimalism allows your skin and wallet to breathe. Naturally, using fewer but effective products means spending less on unnecessary ones.

    Think of skincare products as investments. By focusing on products that work on your skin, you can save more money in the long run while seeing improvements.

  3. Promotes a sustainable lifestyle
    Similar to a minimalist lifestyle, skinimalism can encourage you to become more intentional with your skincare routine. In other words, you must purchase products to address your specific needs and concerns, maximizing them until the last drop and considering your consumption’s effect on the planet.

    Practicing skinimalism not only protects your skin but the earth as well. So, this approach to skincare may be what you need if you’re on the journey to becoming eco-friendly.

How to practice skinimalism

Changing your beauty routine may be difficult at first. Still, it’ll be rewarding once your skin heals from irritation and other significant problems. Here are some things to remember when developing a skinimalism beauty routine.

  1. Focus on a major skin concern
    Not all skincare products are designed to simultaneously treat wrinkles, acne, hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, and other skin conditions. It’s best to treat skin conditions one or a few at a time. In doing so, you’ll need the correct formulas to maintain your skin’s healthy glow.

    For example, to treat acne scars first, use a serum with activated vitamin C and plant extracts. When achieving plumper skin, focus on serums with yeast extracts, antioxidants, and humectants. For dry skin, use a moisturizer with colloidal oatmeal.

  2. Get rid of unnecessary products
    Part of being a skinimalist is being mindful of your purchases. As such, only buy skincare products suitable for your skin and those with combined ingredients and multiple purposes to get the most out of your money.

    Remember that using a product with combined ingredients is different from layering ones with single components. The former is carefully formulated to treat specific skin conditions. In effect, you should only use them for what they’re intended.

    Meanwhile, layering different single-component products may produce adverse effects or not create results. For example, retinol loses its efficacy when layered with vitamin C and alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs).

    Consult a dermatologist first to avoid products that may negatively affect your skin before exploring other options. If you already have an established product stash, you can eliminate single-ingredient serums, multiple actives, and eye creams.

  3. Stick to a consistent routine
    Consistency is key to being a skinimalist. Experts recommend sticking to a routine for three to four months to check whether certain products work. Don’t be alarmed if your skin starts breaking out­­––especially if you’re trying new products––as this is normal.

    Most products take 28 days to work, so be patient with your skincare routine.

    You’ll know that your skincare routine works if your skin isn’t too oily or dry and you’re no longer experiencing adverse effects like redness, irritation, and breakouts. However, a new routine may not produce results sometimes. If so, remove products one at a time or consult your dermatologist, especially if you’re dealing with severe skin problems.

    Avoid exploring or switching out products on your own. You may risk irritating your skin further. Resolving skin issues with the proper products at the onset can help you save time and money in treating more severe cases.

  4. Hydrate and protect your skin
    Skinimalism involves returning to the basics. These basics include drinking lots of water and using a moisturizer with antioxidant ingredients to keep your skin hydrated. You may also want a simple cream with hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture. Top it off with a vitamin C serum to boost your skin’s collagen production and slow signs of aging.

    Additionally, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to protect your skin from ultraviolet A and B rays when going out. Doing so prevents wrinkles and discoloration. You should also wear sunscreen indoors to shield your skin from sun rays passing through windows and blue light from electronic devices.

    Make sure to cleanse your skin at the beginning and end of every day. Use a  pH-balanced cleanser to remove your face’s built-up oil, dirt, and makeup. Proper cleansing can unclog your pores and remove impurities. This way, you can prepare your skin for the rest of your beauty regimen.

Treat Your Skin Better

Modifying your skincare routine may be challenging the first time, especially if you’ve already invested in many products. However, your skin will thank you once you use fewer products formulated to produce your desired results.

Take care of your skin by being mindful of your product purchases and sticking to a consistent skincare routine that works for you. Remember to visit a dermatologist to get expert advice for healthy skin.