For many years, the beauty industry taught us that "proper" skin care means steps upon steps: cleansers, toners, essences, serums, oils, day creams, night creams... And somewhere among the dozens of products, we lost the essential: the essence.
For some years now, a new philosophy has been gaining ground: the skinimalismThis is the trend that promotes simplicity, a focus on few but effective products, and a return to a more "realistic" relationship with our skin.
What is Skinimalism?;
The term comes from the skin and the minimalism. It is the idea that we don't need to consume countless products to have healthy, glowing skin. Instead, a few, well-chosen products that meet our needs are enough. real needs of the skin.
Skinimalism is not just a trend. It is reaction to the product oversaturation and 10+ step routines that went viral thanks to K-beauty.
Why Skinimalism? Is it gaining ground?
- Information and product overload: The consumer was confused. So many actives, acids, retinols, layering that instead of results, often brought irritation.
- More conscious consumption: Generation Z and millennials choose products with substance, clean INCI and sustainable formulas.
- Economy: Overconsumption costs money – skinimalism shows that beauty doesn't have to empty your wallet.
- Viability: Fewer products mean less packaging and a smaller footprint.
- Authenticity: Beauty is not the perfect, filter-skin, but the natural glow and a good relationship with ourselves.
What does a skinimalist look like? routine;
There is no "right" recipe. But the basic pillars are three:
- Cleaning: A mild cleanser, adapted to skin type.
- Hydration: A cream or serum with hyaluronic acid, peptides or ceramides.
- Sun protection: The unique not-negotiable step, every day, all year round.
From there, depending on your needs, you can add a targeted product (e.g. retinol for anti-aging, vitamin C for radiance, salicylic for acne-prone skin).
📌 Insider tip: If a product doesn't have a clear role in your routine, you probably don't need it.
Skinimalism vs “More is More”
The culture of layering has shown that grooming can be ritual, but at the same time it has created an “addiction” to complexity. At the other extreme, skinimalism is closer to Western logic: few, targeted, effective.
It doesn't mean we "throw away" all the products; it means that we filter and we stick to what makes a real difference.
The benefits of Skinimalism
Reduces the risk of irritation and breakouts.
It gives a clearer skin appearance over time.
Reduces stress around routine (no need for 30 minutes every night).
It saves money and time.
Supports more sustainable consumption.
How to start the transition
Rate
See which products you actually use.
Simplify
Keep the essentials (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen).
Aim
Depending on your concern (e.g. acne, wrinkles), add 1 active.
Listen to your skin.
If it looks balanced, it doesn't need more.
Skinimalism & Makeup
Skinimalism doesn't stop at skincare; it's also affecting makeup. The new trend wants natural, breathable look
- tinted moisturizers instead of heavy foundations,
- multi-purpose products (e.g. blush that can also be used as a lip tint),
- Less coverage, more glow.
Beauty returns to naturalness, to the authentic texture of the skin.
Skinimalism is not a “fad that will pass.” It’s a change of mindset: fewer products, more substance. In a world of excess, choosing simplicity doesn’t mean giving up; it means conscious, smarter care.
The beauty of the future will not be judged by how many products you have on your shelf, but by how well you know your skin.
Read also
Understanding Skin Cycling: What it is and how to incorporate it into your routine