Decoding skincare trends for a personalised approach

Skincare trends can make us feel like we’re swirling around in a superficial world of buzzwords, new products and ingredient fads. What was ‘hot’ yesterday could be ‘out’ today. If you are trapped in a perpetual state of research and experimentation, it’s worth taking a step back and deciding what your skin really needs. After all, the key to effective skincare is knowing the difference between what is genuinely beneficial for you and just shrewd marketing.

The trends currently gaining traction focus on the skin’s microbiome and ‘skinimalism’. If you are confused about what direction to take, it’s worth remembering that everyone’s skin is different and what’s right for one person may not be right for you.

When it comes to products that target the skin’s microbiome, like prebiotics and probiotics, it is important to understand that this is an evolving area of research. It concentrates on the development of products that support the skin’s natural environment - including good bacteria. It’s all about boosting the skin’s natural defences and strengthening its barrier. If you find this area of skincare development confusing, here is a useful guide.

Another trend picking up speed among influencers is ‘skinimalism’. Its focus is on dispensing with multi-step routines and replacing them with a more streamlined approach to skincare. This trend hones in on ingredients and can be beneficial for a simple, targeted approach to specific concerns.

Taking ‘skinimalism’ to the extreme is skincare fasting. This involves taking a complete break from ‘actives’. If you want to learn more about this trend and the potential benefits, you can read all about it here.

Ingredient frontrunners in skincare trends

Natural skincare ingredients are championing on all fronts. Botanicals, once side-lined by weird-sounding synthetic properties (the ones most often trademarked by brands), are now an accepted and, dare I say, loved part of self-care rituals. This rise in popularity is in part down to efficacy and in part the result of a move towards greener, more sustainable beauty products. 

Plant-based superheroes like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C are not the only ingredients at the heart of this revolution. So too are kinder retinol alternatives, fruit acids and traditional remedies such as green tea, aloe vera and oatmeal. As well as delivering noticeable skin benefits, these natural products are often manufactured by brands committed to ethical practises and environmentally-friendly packaging.  

Hyaluronic acid, a humectant that attracts and holds moisture, is increasingly becoming a cornerstone of skincare trends. In fact, manufacturers of typically potent serums, including retinol, are now routinely recommending that their products are applied over hyaluronic acid. As well as supporting the effectiveness of a secondary product, it can help the skin resist irritation and dryness. If you currently use retinol or vitamin C, it is definitely worth considering using hyaluronic acid first. 

One of the many misconceptions about hyaluronic acid is that it is a peeling agent. In fact, it isn’t an ‘acid’ in the scary sense. It is a skincare ingredient that is also naturally found in the body. It has been proven to not just hydrate the skin but to plump it and also improve its elasticity. 

Other trending natural skincare ingredients include niacinamide, amino acids (otherwise known as peptides), bakuchiol, and lipids (ceramides). 

More skincare trends

Massage tools are definitely ‘in’. You don’t even have to buy them - many come already attached to skincare product tubes! Current bestsellers include exfoliating brushes sold with cleansers, the traditional gua sha and vibrating roller balls. The latter is proving popular with under-eye treatments and those who want to minimise dark circles or puffiness.

One of the most unusual skincare trends I’ve recently tried is the under-eye microneedle patch. It involves pressing a prickly patch into the skin under the eye and keeping it in place overnight. The product I used had dissolving needles infused with hyaluronic acid. Did it hurt? Not really. Was it effective? Actually, yes!

While the microneedle patch delivered good results, the benefits were temporary. The cost of continuing this treatment is prohibitive, so I’ve purchased an under-eye microneedle tool to use with a serum. We’ll see how that goes…

Pricing is something that is often overlooked when it comes to skincare trends. At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what the current trend is if you can’t afford it. So, personalising your routine has to combine what’s effective and what your budget allows. The good news is, you don’t have to spend a fortune to take care of your skin. 

Let's not forget the true holy grail - sun protection. That’s a trend that should never go out of style! Trending sunscreen formulations range from lightweight and non-greasy textures to tinted products that provide both coverage and protection. Daily sunscreen use, even during the winter months, is essential for preventing premature ageing, reducing the risk of skin cancer and maintaining healthy skin. It's the ultimate multitasker and the most important step in any skincare routine.

So, as we navigate the ever-changing landscape of skincare, it's vital that we understand the individual needs of our skin, do some research and find a routine that suits our personal needs and financial situation. Whether you embrace skinimalism or want to go down the prebiotic route, the goal is the same: to achieve healthy, happy skin that makes you feel confident and comfortable. 

Remember, trends come and go, but healthy skin is always in.