Minimalist skincare is the concept of finding quality ingredients and routines made of select products that target your skin's specific concerns. Truthfully, you don’t need 10 different serums for hydrating, exfoliating, brightening, tightening, etc. Minimalist skincare focuses on having three to five products for a simple skincare routine that leaves you with the best skin ever. Whether you’re dry, combo-acne prone or all-around normal, there’s a simplified routine for your skin type—read on to find yours.
The American Academy of Dermatology Association acknowledges five skin types: normal, dry, combination, oily and sensitive. We’ve added a sixth, acne-prone, because you might be any of these and still suffer bouts of blackheads, whiteheads, cysts, you name it. Depending on your skin type, there are ideal ingredients you should be using. These will help create the healthiest microbiome so your skin feels comfortable. We've broken each skin type down by section to dive deeper into which products best support your skin.
For those blessed with normal skin, your routine doesn't need to be overly complex. Stick to a gentle cleanser to remove impurities without stripping natural oils. Incorporate a Vitamin C serum for brightening, then follow it up with a hydrating yet lightweight moisturizer to maintain your skin's balance. You can also consider retinol for nighttime use and sunscreen is a must in the morning to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
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Dry skin craves hydration and is often flaky and rough with tight pores. If this sounds like your skin, opt for a creamy cleanser that won't rob your skin of moisture. Pat in a hydrating serum and follow with a rich moisturizer containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin. Incorporate a nourishing oil or serum to lock in moisture, especially in the evenings, as the last step of your routine.
Combination skin is often dry in some spots and oily in others. Managing this skin type involves finding a balance. Use a gentle cleanser to cater to the entire face, then focus on a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide will hydrate dry areas while controlling sebum production in your T-zone. Consider spot treatments for areas that need extra attention, like the occasional breakout.
Oily skin is often shiny with noticeably enlarged pores. You can combat excess oil with a foaming or gel-based cleanser that helps control sebum production. Choose an oil-free moisturizer to hydrate without contributing to excess shine—a niacinamide serum will help with oil balance. Lastly, incorporate a targeted treatment like salicylic acid for effective oil and acne control.
Sensitive skin requires extra care to avoid irritation. Opt for a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic cleanser. Hydrating products with ceramides will go a long way to help take care of your skin barrier. Choose a moisturizer with soothing ingredients, and always perform patch tests when introducing new products to your routine.
For those dealing with acne-prone skin, a targeted approach is crucial. Use a gentle cleanser to avoid aggravating acne, and incorporate ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid in your treatment. Use a chemical exfoliator one to three times per week to help refresh your skin. Additionally, snail mucin is a great alternative to any serum because it won’t clog pores. Lastly, finish with a non-comedogenic moisturizer to hydrate at the end of your routine.
Skincare is personal, and what works for one may not work for another. These ingredients should make up the core of your routine, but feel free to add or subtract after considering how your skin is feeling that day (but never skip SPF!). Adjust these routines based on your specific needs and concerns and always consult with a dermatologist for personalized advice. Minimalist skincare is all about simplicity and effectiveness. Sometimes you have to simplify your skincare routine to reveal your healthiest, happiest skin.
