Skinimalism: The Current Fad

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We are so accustomed to our flawlessly curated, ten-step skincare routine that we have forgotten a simple truth: less is more. Skinimalism, the new approach to skincare that is preferred by dermatologists, allows us to return to the bare essentials. This approach calls for a more minimalistic skincare routine that isn’t packed with serums, moisturizers, and endless creams. Instead, skinimalism embraces better products with fewer ingredients, so as not to oversaturate your skin. The skin-conscious practice also extends to makeup use, encouraging you to enhance your natural features with light makeup coverage without damaging the skin underneath. Skinimalism is about letting your natural skin shine.

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I think we are all guilty of buying skincare products that we don’t need, while continuously convincing ourselves they are necessary for our routine. My routine may appear too simple to some, but I have found a minimal approach to skincare and makeup has given me the best skin I have ever had. I’m not sure if it’s the lazy girl in me, but I love simplistic routines. I only use two products. Gasp! Yes, I know what you’re thinking, how can I even call that a skincare routine? Let me explain.

I tried for years to try to have a skincare routine that consisted of maybe five products. The problem was no matter what I tried; my skin did not agree. This made me the perfect fit for the skinimalism fad. I stripped my routine down to the basics and discovered two holy grails of skincare that I have come to love, and I mean love.

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All I am going to say is don’t knock it until you’ve tried it, you might find this minimal routine is just what your skin needs.

If you are interested in getting started, here are the basics you should look for: a quality cleanser, serum, moisturizer, exfoliator, and sunscreen. Now, if you have a good product that is a two-in-one of these basics, then that is awesome. Not only is it better for your skin to use less, but it is better for the planet. Fewer products, less packaging, less waste. Double points if you have products that are biodegradable and contain the best natural ingredients.

Maybe your routine will appear a little less aesthetically pleasing without the extensive lineup of products, but Dr. Shereene Idriss, an NYC-based board-certified cosmetic dermatologist, explains what could go wrong when you don't follow the less is more mantra. "The biggest risk is

developing an irritation, which can evolve into residual post-inflammatory erythema and hyperpigmentation," she says. "This outcome can take months to resolve to leave you with a bigger problem than you had in the first place."

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Skinimalism is the absolute way to go. What I mentioned is just a fraction of the benefits you will receive from this new and improved skincare routine. Even if you aren’t sure your skin will agree, just think about how good fewer chemical-rich products are for the environment. I promise this new fad gives a clean girl aesthetic 2.0 and honestly, who wouldn’t want to let their natural skin shine.

Strike Out,

Writer: Lucia Villanustre

Editor: Noelle Knowlton

Graphic Designer: Lindsay Merril

Tallahassee