How To Build a Minimalist Skincare Routine
So, you’re new to skincare or just don’t have a ton of time, and you’re looking for a minimalist skincare routine that is simple and easy to follow. I’ve got some helpful tips and tricks for you, including key ingredients to look for along with how you can expand on your regimen when you’re ready. Let’s get to it.
Must-Have Skincare Ingredients
When building a minimalist routine, one of the keys is to include power-packed ingredients that will allow you to reach your skin goals with fewer products. Some of our top favorites are:
Vitamin C is considered to be the leading healthy-aging antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that reduces the signs of extrinsic aging, all while hydrating and brightening the skin, and improving overall skin health. It is the #1 skincare ingredient we recommend incorporating into your skincare regimen.
Antioxidants are powerful defenders that protect our skin from free radicals, unstable molecules in the body, that damage our cells, leading to premature aging and other issues. Applied topically, antioxidants penetrate the skin’s surface to provide a protective shield and reduce the effects of oxidative stress, such as wrinkles, fine lines, dark spots, and dehydration.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, molecules used by all living organisms to create proteins. In particular, peptides are essential in the process of collagen production, a structural protein that supports firm and youthful skin. Peptides help build up the overall health of your skin by improving your skin barrier, firming and plumping the skin, reducing inflammation, and can help clear breakouts as well.
Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance in the human body, found in our skin, eyes, and connective tissues. It’s a popular ingredient in skincare due to its ability to attract and retain water and keep the skin hydrated. As we age, our natural production decreases, leading to dehydrated, dry skin, and fine lines. Using products with added hyaluronic acid helps replenish our skin’s moisture levels and improve its texture and appearance.
Skincare Basics
Every minimalist routine should include these three essentials:
- Cleanser: Cleansing is a crucial step in your regimen as it sets the stage for the rest of your routine. Well-cleansed skin better absorbs vital nutrients, boosting the efficacy of every subsequent product you apply. Check out tips on choosing the best cleanser for your skin type here.
- Moisturizer: Moisturizers can infuse the skin with integral healthy aging ingredients while also attracting and retaining moisture in the skin. Learn more about the different types of moisturizers here.
- Sunscreen: SPF is a vital step in your regimen and should be worn daily, not just when you’re in the sun. It’s important to choose something you’ll enjoy wearing every day. See how you can choose the best sunscreen for your skin type here.
Look for Multi-Benefit Skincare Products
Choosing products that address more than one concern or have multiple uses is a great way to build a comprehensive minimalist routine.
AOS Favorite Products That Pack a Punch
- Skin Script Citrus C Nourishing Cream -This power-packed favorite is a serum and moisturizer in one while infusing our top ingredient, Vitamin C, into the skin.
- Hale & Hush Rare Mandelic Serum - We love how this serum clarifies pores, exfoliates, and provides antioxidant protection. Great option for sensitive skin.
- Kizo Lab Liquid Hydration Moisturizer + Serum - An all-in-one serum and moisturizer to supercharge hydration and infuse potent peptides and electrolytes into the skin to boost overall strength and health.
- Sorella Blueberry Milk Moisturizer - This ultra-hydrating, lightweight daily moisturizer offers antioxidant protection and is loaded with peptides and hyaluronic acid.
- iS Clinica l Extreme Protect SPF 40 - More than just a sunscreen, this SPF offers extra antioxidant protection and helps diminish hyperpigmentation with regenerative properties. It’s also available in a variety of tints to give you the perfect coverage.
- Botnia Essential Enzymes - This multi-tasking cream can be used as a cleanser or a mask with gentle exfoliating enzymes, perfect for sensitive skin.
- Hale & Hush Brilliant Eye & Lip Serum - Both the eyes and lips will love the hydration and healing this serum provides. Plus, it can double as your highlight!
How To Build on a Basic Skincare Routine
When you’re ready to bump up your routine, I’ve laid out some recommendations on where to go next.
Retinol: We recommend incorporating a retinol product to boost collagen, brighten pigment, and renew texture. Retinol does increase sun sensitivity, so stick to using only during the cooler months. To dive deeper into this ingredient, check out our blog .
Eye Treatments: The thin and delicate skin around our eyes requires special formulations to treat the more fragile skin and address specific concerns such as fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. Eye treatments can be preventative or corrective. To help hone in on the best eye treatment for your skin type check out our blog here .
Serums: Incorporating a serum is a great way to layer actives and other healthy aging ingredients into your routine. Serums are easily absorbed by the skin and often contain higher percentages of active ingredients for optimal correction.
Masks: A face mask is not only a great way to unwind but can also offer a variety of benefits for the skin, from infusing hydration to providing an exfoliating treatment.
So, here you have it—the foundation for a minimalist skincare routine. If you’re feeling unsure of where to start, reach out for a free skincare checkup , and our licensed estheticians will optimize your routine for the best results.
