What is skinimalism?

Skinimalism can simplify your skincare routine today and beyond

Skinimalism can simply your life.

Skinimalism was the biggest skin trend of 2021, according to Pinterest Predicts, the social media brand's trend forecast engine. The concept is simple: instead of focusing on the heavily made-up look, the emphasis is on simplifying your skincare routine while accepting your skin's natural texture and using multitasking products to get glowing skin.

Benefits of skinimalism

Skinimalism is all about a “less is more” approach to skincare. Its simplified routine can save you from unnecessary product trial and error while being eco-friendly since fewer products mean less packaging and less waste.

• Skinimalism is efficient. Investing in a multitasking product that works for your skin type means swapping your single-ingredient products with a multi-ingredient one.

• Skinimalism is personal. Say goodbye to those 10-step beauty routines. Skinimalism can help streamline your routine and help you discover products that will give you dewy, healthy skin with minimal effort.

• Skinimalism is affordable. It's better to spend money on products that you know will work for your skin rather than buying trendy products.

How to practice skinimalism

Accepting this minimalist approach is all about reducing the number of products or wearing less makeup, allowing your natural skin texture to shine while committing to a more economical and eco-friendly beauty routine.

• Target your skin type. If you have oily skin, look for the words "ultra-light" or "gel-based" when picking out a product.

• Focus on your skin concern. If preventing hyperpigmentation is your priority, products containing vitamin C will help by fading dark spots.

• Don't overuse an active ingredient. If you have dark spots, you don't need to use a cleanser, moisturizer, and SPF with brightening ingredients.

• Don't mix many active ingredients together. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs like glycolic acid and lactic acid) and retinol should not be mixed; use them on alternate nights.

• Always wear sunscreen. Protect your skin from the sun, even on cloudy days.

• See a dermatologist. Skincare can be complicated and confusing. The information provided by a dermatologist can help you choose the right products.

Best products for skinimalism

Best cleansers

All dermatologists recommend using a cleanser to rid the skin of dirt, oil, pollutants and dead skin. Lush Ultrabland Facial Cleanser is great for all skin types. If you have acne-prone, oily skin, go for an exfoliating factor such as Youth To The People Superfruit Facial Cleanser, and for dry skin, consider Illiyoon Gentle Facial Deep Cleansing Oil because it has coconut oil.

Best serums

Serums are the powerhouse of skincare products — they're made of highly concentrated ingredients to cater to specific skin needs. For the day time, a vitamin C serum like Biopelle C+AHA Renewal Serum (my current favorite) or The Ordinary Ascorbyl Glucoside Solution 12%, are your best bet.

For night time, retinol serums like RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Retinol Face Serum are best as they are antiaging powerhouses. (Note: pregnant women and new moms should avoid retinol and choose alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic or lactic acid.)

Best moisturizers

It's important to keep your skin hydrated to keep it healthy. Lush Celestial Moisturizer is perfect for all skin types, and some other great ones are e.l.f. SKIN Holy Hydration! Face Cream (oily skin), AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Cream (dry or sensitive skin), and TULA Breakout Star Acne Moisturizer (acne-prone skin).

Best SPF

The sun's UV rays are one of the biggest causes of skin issues. Use sunscreen year-round to protect your skin. Naked Sundays SPF 50+ Daily Facial Moisturizer and Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 are two great picks.

How much does skinimalism cost?

Skinimalism is an affordable investment for beauty lovers. You can expect to pay from about $10-$80 and up for skincare products. Products that come in numerous formulas are available in the $10-$29 price range. You can find premium brands and specialized products that target several issues in one product and contain superior ingredients for $30-$79. If you don’t mind spending $80 or more, you can find luxury brands of skincare products.

Skinimalism FAQ

Q. What products do I need in my skincare routine?

A. Everyone's skin is different, but it's generally advisable to have a cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen in your routine.

Q. How often should I exfoliate?

A. Depending on your skin, you should exfoliate one or two times per week.

Q. What causes acne?

A. Acne is caused by excess sebum and clogged pores. Hormones, genetics and lifestyle can also cause acne.

Q. Do I need to use sunscreen in winter?

A. Yes, you should wear sunscreen year-round.

*This was originally published on Best Reviews in 2021.