Dare To Use Less.
In the world of skincare, sometimes more isn't always better.
With the abundance of new products available on the market, it can be tempting to try every new trending potion, add that extra product to your routine and clog up not only your bathroom cupboards but also your pores. But, is a minimalist approach to skincare the most effective? Well, some argue a simple skincare routine can be just as beneficial in achieving glowing, plump skin as it is too lather on layers of potions and lotions.
Step 1, 2, 3.
What we’ve found at Illuminate London, is a skincare routine that is simple, fuss-free and will still get you the results you want.
Our nourishing Cleansing Oil, leaves your skin feeling purified and clear without that tight, uncomfortable feeling. It doesn’t strip away or damage your natural skin barrier but instead, draws out impurities, dirt, make up and sweat. Which we love!
Fun fact - oil attracts oil - so an oil cleanser can work for all skin types (even oily-combination skin) as the Cleansing Oil will draw out deep excess oils to the surface of the skin for you to wash away. Magic or skin-science?
Step Two in the fuss-free routine is re-hydration. For that, we massage in some of our Rescue Serum to give it a much needed moisture boost packed with powerful, hydrating botanicals and oils. These ingredients are chosen specifically as they mimic what the skins natural composition needs to rejuvenate and replenish, which means we are replacing what we are taking away. And our skin loves it!
And lastly, we lock in all this goodness with a glorious Face Cream. The Illuminate face cream is a light-weight, hydration bomb. By adding hyaluronic acid to some potent butters and oils, we created a cream draws moisture down into the deep layers of our skin. You always want to follow this with your favourite SPF on top to add that final layer of protection from the elements and damaging UV rays.
It’s important to remember that everyones skin is different so the type of product and routine that will work for you, may not work for someone else. It’s an individual journey. For example, my sensitive skin type can’t handle strong Vitamin C serums or potent BHAs, chemical peels or exfoliants, but these ingredients do work for the right skin types that crave them.
First Things First.
To achieve a minimalist skincare routine that can fit into your busy day, try these simple steps:
Assess your skin's needs
Before creating a skincare routine, it's important to assess your skin type. Oily, Combination, Dry, Sensitive, Ageing. Identify any specific concerns or moods such as acne, hyperpigmentation, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis. Once you have a good idea of what your skin's needs are, you can start looking at the type of products that will address those specific concerns.
Keep it simple
It's a common misconception that the more products used equals better results. In reality, using too many products can actually do more harm than good. Overloading the skin with products can disrupt the natural balance of oils and impact our cellular regeneration cycle, cause irritation, clog pores and increase breakouts. Instead, opting for a few quality products that targeted your skin's specific needs can be more beneficial than the quantity used and price you paid.
Focus on the basics
A simple yet effective skincare routine should include the basics: cleansing, re-balancing, moisturising, and sunscreen. Cleansing is essential for removing dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin. Re-balancing will allow you to add back essential oils, vitamins and minerals that are stripped away during the day and the cleansing process. Moisturising helps to maintain the skin's barrier function and prevent dehydration. And sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause premature ageing and skin cancer.
Choose multi-tasking products
To keep your skincare routine simple, look for products that offer multiple benefits. For example, a moisturiser with added SPF can simplify your routine by combining two steps into one. Similarly, a cleansing oil can remove makeup and cleanse the skin in one step, eliminating the need for a separate makeup remover. You can also use your chosen cleanser twice to effectively carry out a double cleanse step, no need to worry about buying multiple different cleansers.
Don't forget about lifestyle factors
Skincare is not just about the products you use. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, diet, excessive sun exposure, sleep, stress and water intake can also impact the health of your skin. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants can help to support healthy skin, while exercise can improve circulation and help to flush out toxins. Getting enough sleep is also essential for skin health, as it allows the skin to repair and regenerate overnight.
A minimalist approach to skincare isn’t for everyone, but it’s important to know that it does work. Don’t get us wrong, we love a good spa session; masking, exfoliating, misting, toning and trying all those serums. But for an everyday approach, some need speed and efficiency! So we’ve focused on what our skin needs to maintain a natural homeostasis by choosing quality, targeted products that tick all our skincare boxes and give us a routine that results in healthy, glowing, natural skin.
