Despite the many many useful hacks we have learnt from the internet, be for in the kitchen, the car, at work or even skincare, it is only fair to admit that it can be overwhelming as well. For someone new to the sphere of beauty, it can be chaotic trying to keep up with the newest ingredient you need to include in your routine. Niacinamide? Hyaluronic? Retinoid? It can all be too much too fast, and potentially can do more harm than good. You try to stay informed and educated on the products you use, but often without a clear understanding of your own individual skin type, issues and demands. We spoke to Dr Manasi Shirolikar, a dermatologist to hear what she had to say about less is more in skincare.
Skincare Should Be Simple And Sparse
Skin Minimalism is the path to follow starting now, with a routine that contains the minimum number of products while being effective. It is especially important to consult a specialist because not all skincare ingredients that are meant to benefit you are best friends. For instance, Retinol and Benzoyl Peroxide, though individually great for you, when combined are a recipe for disaster. Slathering multiple layers of creams, serums or lotions to achieve your dream skin, can actually end up damaging your skin. However, if you consistently use that one serum, follow your prescribed products, and religiously apply and reapply sunscreen, you will be doing right by your skin.
Skincare Essentials To Stick To
The ideal skincare routine with the absolute bare minimum should follow the rules of CTP- Cleanse, Tone and Protect. CTP has evolved from the hitherto reigning CTM routine- cleansing, toning and moisturising. CTP is a fairly simple, minimal yet highly effective routine. First, you use a cleanser, followed by a toner, then sunscreen and moisturiser and voila! You’re done and ready for the day or night.
Choose The Correct Products For Your Skin Type
The products you end up buying should depend heavily on your skin type and what you’re looking to achieve with your skincare routine. Consider your goals – fading scars? reduce pigmentation? fight acne? get glowing skin? After that, you can narrow your search and pick something that compliments your skin temperament. One thing that is non-negotiable is sunscreen. If the protection from Skin Cancer wasn’t enough of an incentive, it also delays signs of ageing.
How To Transition From Maximalism To Skin Minimalism
If you are looking to cut down on your elaborate routine, these tips might help you out. Check out multi-ingredient serums, it has all benefits of multiple actives in one serum, while simultaneously shortening your skincare routine. You can hit multiple skin targets with just one product, as some of these can work as exfoliators, brighten your skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, whilst also hydrating skin. You can pick and choose the one that suits your skin type and goals the most. However, the internet is no match for the advice of a professional who can help you build the perfect routine after examining your skin and medical history.
To put it simply, you don’t need an extravagant 8 step routine to achieve healthy, glowing skin. A simple 3 step routine is a quicker, more sustainable and effective way to reach your skin goals. Remember, consistency is what matters, and not the number of products!
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