The Best Skin Care Trends to Try This Year
Written by: Cora Gold
Skincare has come a long way as innovations and trends are released left and right. From AI-powered skin recommendations to spray-on sunscreen, there are many products and practices to try. Refresh your skin with some of the best ones this year!
1. Microneedling
Pause your fancy facial treatments and try some skincare products that emulate them instead. Gentle exfoliators help remove dead skin cells.
Some products have interesting ingredients that can also enhance your routine. For example, spicules are derived from marine sponges and emulate the prickly effect of microneedling. Using products with these ingredients improves the absorption of skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.
2. Virtual Skincare Analysis
Knowing your skin better means understanding what issues to focus on and what products to use. Thankfully, AI-powered programs can help you do just that. You could get a personalized skin assessment with just a few photos.
The data gets pretty specific, covering everything from your skin type to hydration levels and so much more. Based on the concerns detected, you can even seek out skincare product recommendations. As most apps are still in development, take it all with a grain of salt and never use it as a replacement for professional dermatology.
3. Skincare Tools
Skincare tools trend almost yearly, especially as technology improves. Seek classics like jade rollers, which provide anti-aging effects by naturally shaping and firming the skin. Facial steamers are fantastic for softening up the skin and opening the pores.
There are more advanced iterations, such as the LED face mask. These allow you to administer light therapy to your skin from the comfort of your home.
4. Skincare-Infused Makeup
Some people believe that skincare and makeup are on opposite sides of the beauty spectrum, but brands are starting to blur the line by combining them into multifunctional products. Think tinted moisturizers and water lip tints.
People enjoy hybrid options, as evidenced by newer products like tinted lip masks and hydrating face primers. Makeup companies may also use more skincare ingredients in their formulations.
5. Sunscreen Over Makeup
You still need sun protection, even after applying skincare-infused makeup. Thankfully, sunscreen formulas are becoming more advanced. If you don’t like the feeling of cream sunscreen, try using powder and spray sunscreen to lock in your cosmetics while protecting your face from the sun.
Remember to check the sun protection factor on the label! It’s recommended to apply sunscreen formulas with SPF 30 or higher to effectively shield your skin. Make sure to add a lip balm with SPF on top for glossy, sun-protected lips.
6. Multi-Step Routines
With so many skincare products available, people are moving on from the regular trio of cleanser, toner and moisturizer. Experiment with makeup removers, serums, eye creams, lash growth oils and so much more.
You can certainly stick with the three-step routine, but branching out every once in a while can be a treat for your skin. A longer skincare application is also a soothing way to relax at the end of the day. Play music and focus on the different sensations each product evokes.
Remember to use products with active ingredients in moderation. Before integrating a product into your routine, read the label and recommended frequency of use.
7. Overnight Masks
Sheet masks have gotten plenty of attention, especially when they’re on the cuter side. However, they can only supply so much hydration within the 15 minutes that they are on your face — especially for the 37% of U.S. adults who worry about skin dryness.
Creamy overnight facial masks are much more emollient, ensuring a boost of moisture that will stay with you until morning. These products also act as a protective layer while you sleep and your body repairs its skin barrier.
8. Intentional Body Care
Skincare also means taking care of the body, using more than just soap and lotion after the shower. Try to explore body wash and moisturizers formulated with face care ingredients to ensure they’re as powerful and effective at hydrating, smoothing and more.
Many new products are coming out, from body serums to underarm salves to bum creams. These items help you become more intentional with your routine. Pay attention to certain aspects of your body and treat it as best as possible.
Pamper All of Your Skin
With the new year comes new skincare trends to try. Get a feel of what your skin needs before choosing a particular practice or gadget to experiment with. Patch tests are your best friend for avoiding breakouts and finding the most suitable products. Happy self-care!