I’ve never been one to use a lot of skincare products because it’s just too much work – especially in the summer. I need a routine that saves time but is still effective and keeps my skin looking healthy and fresh! So I’m sharing what I’m currently using for my minimalist skincare routine.
What is Minimalist skincare?
Obviously, having a minimalist skincare means keeping your routine simple. I don’t believe you need to be using tons of product in order to keep your skin happy and healthy. But I also think minimalist skincare means keeping your products as natural as possible and choosing skincare products with minimal ingredient lists. Minimalism also brings to mind a certain aesthetic so I’m also drawn to products with minimal packaging.
One brand that hits all those marks is Biossance
Biossance has a “No Compromise” approach to skincare. They are committed to creating products that are good for you AND safe for the environment. Their “clean” approach to skincare means they only use ingredients that are free from toxic or harmful ingredients and safe for the environment, sustainable, and cruelty free. The other thing I like about Biossance is that they use stable and effective ingredients that are naturally derived or from non-toxic synthetic sources. I don’t believe that just because an ingredient isn’t 100% natural that it’s necessarily bad for you. But it has to be backed by science, proven to be effective and not harmful. Plus, Biossance packaging is A+ and looks great sitting on my vanity.
My favorite minimalist skincare brands
The majority of the skincare products I’m using now come from Biossance. This post isn’t sponsored by them I just happen to love the brand! But I do mix in products from other brands including Drunk Elephant, Paula’s Choice and Dermalogica.
Like Biossance, I think Paula’s Choice does a good job of choosing ingredients that are effective, researched based, and high quality. However, Paula’s Choice isn’t strictly naturally based. Their products are a combination of effective natural ingredients and proven safe and effective chemically based ingredients. Paula’s choice has a wider range of products so if you are looking to target a specific problem, Paula’s choice is sure to have an option!
I also like Dermalogica because the packaging is simple and minimal. They also use ingredients that are free of irritants and unnecessary things like artificial colors and fragrances. They also have a wider range of products to target specific problems.
If you have really sensitive skin and want clean skincare products I recommend checking out Drunk Elephant. They are very strict with their ingredients and even leave out natural essential oils because sometimes those can be irritating.
Essential Minimalist Skincare Products
Cleanser
I’m currently using Drunk Elephant’s Beste No. 9 Jelly Cleanser. It’s a simple, pH balanced cleanser that won’t strip your skin. I’ll also use Biossance Tea Tree Oil cleanser when I feel like my skin is breaking out a little. Paula’s Choice Skin Balancing Oil-Reducing Cleanser is also a good option. It’s a simple cream cleanser that gets the job done and is gentle on my skin. I’ve also used the Special Cleansing Gel from Dermalogica. I’ll use all of these cleansers with my Clarisonic to get a deeper clean.
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Toner
I LOVE using a toner daily. Some people might not think it’s a necessary part of your skincare routine but I disagree. A toner helps cleanse, balance and hydrate your skin. There are times when I think I’ve done a good job of cleansing my skin only to see a bunch of left over dirt on my cotton pad after I’ve applied my toner. And on really hot and humid days sometimes I don’t even need to use a moisturizer after applying the toner.
My go-to toner that I’ve been using for almost 10 years is Thayer’s Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner. It’s alcohol free so it won’t dry out your skin. The rose water + witch hazel helps to tighten pores, control oil, and keep moisture locked in. It also contains vitamin C which helps brighten skin and fade blemishes. I absolutely love this stuff and feel naked when I don’t use it.
Moisturizer
Morning and Evening I use Biossance Squalane + Omega Repair Cream. I love the texture and how it moisturizes without leaving my skin greasy. If you have oily skin I would recommend using Biossance Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer. I’ve also used Drunk Elephant’s Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer and I like that too.
If I’m going outside during the day I use the Biossance Squalane + Zine Sheer Mineral Sunscreen for the SPF protection.
The reason I use two different moisturizers is because I don’t want to put SPF on my skin at night because it’s not needed.
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It might sound like I just listed a lot of products but essentially a BASIC minimalist skincare routine just needs a cleanser and moisturizer for day and night. For my minimalist skincare routine I like to use this formula:
Cleanser + Toner + Moisturizer (one for day + one for night)
It really only takes a couple minutes to do my skincare routine. I actually look forward to it every night because it makes my skin feel so good!
My Comprehensive Skincare Routine
If you are ready to upgrade your skincare routine then check out my Clean Skincare Routine Post! This is the extensive skincare routine that I currently use in my 30’s for normal to dry skin. But don’t worry – it still only takes me a couple minutes every morning and night!
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