How to Simplify Your Skincare Routine and Make It Work

If you're into skincare, you're probably also a bit of a hoarder. Add that with the fear of missing out, it's much more terrifying. You can’t stop thinking about the *new cleaning balm* that just launched, because you love skincare products so much and always want to get your hands on what’s new out there? Yes, we resonate with that feeling too!

Most of us are big fans of clever marketing strategies and substantial discounts and deals. There are so many new products out there, new routines to try every two weeks or so, ads on social media like Instagram promoting new products, gorgeous packaging, things your favourite influencer swears by - what's a girl to do?! As a result, our makeup drawer is overflowing and that wallet, nearly empty!

Excessive Skin-Care Routines Can Be Harmful

Taking care of your skin is a good thing, but this overtly emphasized ‘skincare’ craze has some negative effects as well. Despite their best efforts, dermatologists and aestheticians, are witnessing a growing number of patients who are developing new skin issues, such as acne and inflammation. Some people complain of red, peeling, flaking skin, but they don't know what's causing the problem. One look at their products, and you might find that it's an allergic reaction, irritation from using too harsh products, instruments they have at home, or maybe a mix of all three.

Instead of making skin healthier, using too many products can disturb the skin barrier. 

So, if there's one thing we've learned, it's that more products don't always mean instant results and great skin. You could be doing more harm than good to your skin, not to mention adding to your already excessive beauty clutter. We decided to put it to the test, to keep things simple, discover the ideal routine, and clean the counter of anything unnecessary, and all the extra shelf space freed up!

Here is how we created a basic, high-performance, ideal skincare routine

Identify your skin goals

When looking for a new product, you should first think about what you want to accomplish with your skincare routine. What are your biggest worries that you want to solve so that you can feel comfortable in your own skin? Are you looking for brightness, a smoother texture, or better oil control?

Once you've decided what you want, you can look at the elements that will help you get there and make your investment wisely. Consider quality over quantity once you've determined this. This can help you figure out which products belong in your routine and which ones don't.

Find products that work well for your skin care concern

Every regime requires a secret ingredient. We're not talking about only one ingredient like a Vitamin C; ingredients which particularly treat YOUR skincare problem. For instance, hyperpigmented skin that has dark spots and uneven skin tone, using Rose Panasea Skin Toner from NESARA by Nicky provides you flawless radiance every time used. As with the Facial Felicity Moisturiser, which plumps and smoothens your skin. Remember! The majority of skincare products are not instant fixes (we wish they were!), and it will take time for them to show results. Give your skincare product a chance before including it in a collection of rejected items.

Products that multi-task

If you want to simplify your skincare routines, you don't have to get rid of products that work. Finding items that can address multiple issues at once is the key. Multi-tasking solutions make your regimen more manageable and affordable.

Creating an ideal routine

If you’re into skincare, you know that the latest trend of following the basic skincare routine is known as Skinimilism, and well it’s all about minimalism in your beauty and makeup regimens. It is built on a less-is-more mentality that gives outcomes just as good as an elaborate regimen. The result? A simpler version that'll save you time, and needless trial and error - all while being more friendly to the environment. Less product, less packaging, less waste.

A skincare ritual to follow may be:

  • A daily routine that includes cleansing your face, then followed by moisturiser and sunscreen.
  • A night-care routine that includes washing the face, applying any prescribed medications, and followed by a night cream or a moisturiser on the face and neck.

Choose simple steps and products in your routine that suit your skin and age. Create a routine that works for you, and your skin will be thankful!

Skincare products have four basic roles.

Cleansing

When it comes to cleansing, whether you use two steps (oil followed by cleanser) or just one (cleanser), a lot relies on whether or not you need to remove your makeup first. Choose a cleanser that complements your skin type in order to clean without stripping it of its natural oils.

Exfoliating

Based on personal preference, you decide if you need to use a mechanical method (washcloth, conventional or DIY scrub) or a chemical approach (any type of acid product: cream, lotion, serum, toner).

Hydration and moisture

These are related, but are not the same thing. Emollients contribute to the moisturisation and protection of the skin barrier. Using humectants enables hydration. The majority of creams and lotions contain both.

Protection 

Don't forget to apply sunscreen when you're out and about. This is non-negotiable. No matter what time of year it is, our skin is constantly at risk from the sun's harmful ultraviolet radiation, thus wearing an SPF 50 PA 3++++ every day is a must.

Swap your skincare…

…with easy-to-use items. Avoid makeup wipes. Resort to Oil cleansing & wiping with a warm wet cloth. Instead of sheet masks, consider DIY face masks created from ingredients found in the kitchen pantry.

What we should keep in mind

The minimalist skincare routine is intended to utilise as few products as possible to achieve the highest possible results. It focuses on skin health and lets your natural beauty shine through. The objective is to achieve a natural glow and enhance the skin's innate ability to appear flawless. Simplicity is the essence of ‘skinimalism’, but not at the expense of results.