It’s no secret that the beauty community has gone skincare-crazy in recent years. Seriously, it seems like there’s a new product dropping every day! And it’s not just products; there’s a whole bunch of new skincare practices and beliefs popping up, too. With all this stuff flying around, it can be overwhelming, right? But hey, don’t sweat it! We’ve got your back with the ultimate guide to help you navigate through all the popular skincare trends of the 21st century.
We’re spilling the tea on popular skincare ingredients, practices, and even some fun DIYs. Plus, we’re not just talking about your face here. We’re diving into popular body skincare trends too, so you can glow from head to toe! So, kick back, relax, and let’s dive into the secrets of achieving fabulous, healthy skin in the modern age. You’re gonna love it!
Skincare Approaches
Let’s talk about the different approaches to skincare. There’s a whole spectrum out there, from the simple “wash, moisturize, and sunscreen” skincare minimalism to the elaborate 15-step K Beauty routines that can eat up half your morning and evening. So, what’s the right approach? Honestly, it’s up to you.
We can’t dictate what skincare routine will suit you best. Personally, I’m all about those luxurious, longer routines. For me, skincare is a form of self-care and wellness. But hey, not everyone has the time or inclination for that. What’s important is recognizing that everyone’s skin is unique. While some folks thrive with just the basics, others need a little extra TLC.
So, experiment and find what works for you. Don’t let anyone pressure you into a skincare routine that doesn’t resonate with you. It’s all about what feels right for your skin and your lifestyle. If you’re feeling lost and overwhelmed, talk to your dermatologist about that, and slowly incorporate products that you’re interested in testing out.
Skincare Minimalism
If you’re curious about skincare minimalism, you’re onto something big. It’s become increasingly popular lately, and it’s easy to see why. After years of the skincare craze, especially during the pandemic, many consumers grew weary of splurging on endless serums and cleansers. And honestly, for a lot of people, all those extra steps just aren’t necessary, especially if you’re a young adult without major skin issues. Simply cleansing your face at night, rinsing with water in the morning, and applying moisturizer and SPF can give your skin all the care it needs. If this basic routine keeps your skin happy, you’re not just saving time but also money.
But wait, even if you aren’t a minimalist at heart, you and your skin could benefit from a round of skin fasting. And this practice is just what it sounds like – giving your skin a break by going product-free for a while. Of course, that does not include the basics. What can this do? Help your skin restore its balance naturally, while also giving you the chance to find out which products actually work for you.
K Beauty Routines
Now, on the flip side, we have the famously elaborate Korean beauty skincare routines. These involve layering on toners, facial mists, sheet masks, serums, ampules, essences, and moisturizers, along with indulging in practices like gua sha facial massages or using gemstone skincare tools like jade rollers and crystal mushrooms. While some might scoff at the idea of such a lengthy routine, I’m a huge fan. To me, skincare is a form of self-care, plain and simple. If dedicating 30 to 40 minutes each evening to pamper your skin leaves you feeling fantastic inside and out, it’s a win-win situation in my book.
Conventional Skincare, Clean Beauty, or Holistic Skincare?
When it comes to your skincare approach, it’s not just about the number of products you use. Another crucial factor is whether you opt for the conventional route, lean towards clean beauty, or embrace holistic skincare. Let’s clear up some confusion – while we always advocate for cruelty-free and vegan products, it’s essential to understand that not all clean beauty products fall under this umbrella. So, what exactly do clean beauty and holistic skincare entail? Let’s dive in.
Busting Skincare Myths
First off, terms like “clean” and “holistic” aren’t regulated by the FDA, which means they don’t hold any legal weight. However, many brands use them to market skincare lines inspired by nature or formulated with natural ingredients. And while some natural ingredients work wonders for the skin, others, like certain essential oils, can be too harsh for those with a sensitive complexion.
Now, onto holistic skincare. This approach has nothing to do with clean beauty; instead, it emphasizes that healthy, glowing skin starts from within. And it’s absolutely true. While skincare products play a role, nothing beats a healthy, balanced lifestyle. So, if you’re constantly struggling with skincare products, perhaps it’s time to take a closer look at your overall wellness and dietary habits. After all, healthy skin is a reflection of a healthy body and mind.
Natural Products That Actually Work
What if you’re still someone who prefers using completely natural products? Then we’ve got you covered with some favorites that actually deliver results. These are inexpensive products that you can find almost anywhere, but that doesn’t make them any less effective.
One standout favorite is bentonite clay. This powerhouse ingredient is unbeatable for deep-cleaning pores and controlling excess sebum. Best part? You don’t have to break the bank for it. Bentonite clay is readily available and can be easily mixed with rose water to whip up your own gentle yet effective mud mask.
Next up is witch hazel, a fantastic alternative to conventional toners. It works wonders for balancing the skin, keeping it refreshed and clear. Another budget-friendly toner substitute is rice water, which you can easily prepare at home. Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, it’s great for soothing skin and even helps fade dark spots.
And let’s not forget about rosehip oil. Bursting with natural vitamin C, this oil is a fantastic substitute for pricey antioxidant serums. It nourishes and brightens the skin, leaving you with a radiant complexion.
Popular Skincare Ingredients and What They Do
Now that we’ve covered different skincare approaches, let’s dive into actual popular skincare trends by exploring trending ingredients. With new ingredients seemingly popping up every week, we’ll focus on those that have truly made an impact on the beauty industry.
Retinoids
Retinoids have become a staple in skincare routines lately. From over-the-counter options like retinol to prescription-only tretinoin, there’s no shortage of choices. But what exactly are retinoids? In short, they’re vitamin A derivatives. Available in various forms and strengths, they all work similarly. Regular use of retinoids boosts collagen production, prevents acne breakouts, and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
Vitamin C
Another star in anti-aging skincare is Vitamin C. It’s an antioxidant that, when applied topically, shields our skin from oxidative stress and enhances sunscreen effectiveness. Vitamin C is particularly effective against hyperpigmentation and dull skin, giving it a youthful glow. It’s important to use the right form of vitamin C, with pure Ascorbic Acid having the most scientific evidence. However, be aware that this ingredient oxidizes quickly, so store your vitamin C serum in a cool, dark place.
Salicylic Acid
Salicylic acid, also known as BHA or beta hydroxy acid, is a powerhouse for fighting acne-prone, oily, or congested skin. As a gentle chemical exfoliant, it penetrates deeply to remove dead skin cells and excess sebum. Most commonly found at a 2% strength in skincare products, salicylic acid is often used in cleansers, serums, creams, and spot treatments. If you struggle with oily skin and breakouts, adding a salicylic acid cleanser to your routine could work wonders.
Hyaluronic Acid
Last but not least, hyaluronic acid is an omnipresent skincare ingredient these days. Like vitamin C, there are various forms of hyaluronic acid, with molecular size being the main difference. Smaller molecules penetrate better, but they may be too harsh for sensitive skin. Stick to Sodium Hyaluronate if you experience irritation.
New Age Ingredients
While the ingredients we’ve discussed are tried-and-true staples in many skincare routines, there’s a wave of newer, more advanced ingredients gaining attention. While these ingredients boast amazing anecdotal evidence, it’s essential to note that they may not have the same scientific backing as the ones we’ve mentioned.
Polyglutamic Acid
Despite its name, polyglutamic acid is a gentle skincare ingredient that works wonders as a humectant. It not only hydrates the skin but also imparts a gorgeous glow. Additionally, it helps plump the complexion, smoothing out fine lines caused by dehydration. So if your skin doesn’t agree with hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid might be a better option.
Bakuchiol
If you’ve struggled to find a retinol that suits your skin, then Bakuchiol may be the solution. This plant-based, all-natural ingredient is derived from the seeds of the Psoralea Corylifolia plant and has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries. However, Western countries only learned about it in recent years. Bakuchiol offers similar effects to retinol, from improved collagen production to wrinkle reduction and fewer breakouts. And the best part? You can even use it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Collagen
While we often discuss the importance of collagen production for a youthful complexion, what about direct collagen in our skincare products? There are more and more products featuring this ingredient. While the idea behind it is great, you have to make sure you’re buying from a reputable source. Collagen is a large protein, which means it can’t exactly penetrate our skin cells. However, in certain formulations, it can work wonders for hydration and protection.
Adaptogens
Adaptogens refer to a group of herbs and mushrooms known for their ability to help the body adapt to stressors. While they’re mostly consumed orally, they’re now also found in the ingredient lists of reputable skincare brands. The most popular ones used in skincare are ginseng, ashwagandha, holy basil, and reishi mushrooms. They are amazing ingredients that help combat oxidative stress, boost the vitality of our skin, and minimize the effects of modern-day stressors.
Green Tea
Last but not least, let’s talk about green tea. Even though we love to sip on a cup of this antioxidant whenever we get the chance, it’s just as effective when added to our favorite skincare products. It’s not only a strong protective layer against oxidative stress, but the anti-inflammatory properties of green tea also help fight blemishes. And just like any other antioxidant, it can also bring a glow to even the dullest complexion.
Beyond Skincare
Skincare products are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to popular skincare trends. The 21st century has introduced a myriad of skincare procedures, treatments, and practices. While some may seem gimmicky, others have solid scientific evidence backing them, offering transformative results for your skin. However, there are also less promising options. Let’s explore some of the most noteworthy trends.
LED Light Therapy
Let’s kick things off with LED light therapy devices. We’re big fans, but not all LED masks are created equal. It’s essential to choose a device that’s been thoroughly tested. When used correctly, these devices emit different wavelengths of light, each offering unique benefits. From tackling fine lines with red light to battling acne-causing bacteria with blue light, and even multitasking superheroes like purple light, there’s a lot to love. And while results aren’t instant, using an LED mask daily for at least 15 minutes can bring about significant changes over time.
Dermarolling
Next up is derma rolling, which involves using a roller covered in fine needles to create micro-injuries on the skin. This stimulates the skin’s natural healing process and boosts collagen production. In theory, it sounds fantastic. However, DIY derma rolling can lead to serious skin damage if not done correctly under sanitary conditions. For this reason, it’s best to leave this procedure to the experts.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is another popular treatment that deeply exfoliates the skin, leaving it fresh and rejuvenated. While it’s often performed at spas, there are also effective at-home tools available. Compared to derma rolling, the risks are minimal, making it a safer option for many.
Face Taping & Facial Yoga
Now, let’s touch on some less evidence-based practices like face taping and facial yoga. Face taping involves using medical-grade tape to restrict facial expressions, relax facial muscles, and reduce wrinkles. However, its effectiveness is up for debate. Similarly, facial yoga offers gentle exercises for the face and neck but lacks concrete proof of its anti-aging benefits. Nevertheless, it can be a great way to relax your neck area after a long, stressful day.
