‘Skinimalism’ and the no or minimal makeup trend is now firmly entrenched in the beauty lexicon as consumers simplify routines and focus on products that nourish and replenish, creating what international skincare and beauty brand Clinique calls, a ‘gorgeous my skin, but better look.’

This return to natural radiance means that heavy facial contouring and makeup is on the way out, and replaced by softer and subtler alternatives, including soft sculpting.

This makeup technique adds natural definition to the face, without harsh lines or modifying the features. However, effective soft sculpting requires super hydrated and nourished skin with an even texture and soft skin feel.

The pursuit of a healthy, clear, and moisturised complexion is not new. What is new is that consumers are moving to a less is more approach – engaging in hardworking and multi-tasking skincare essentials and hero ingredients that can contribute to beautiful skin, without compromising the skin barrier or its natural pH balance.

The use of too many harsh chemicals and abrasives can result in sensitive and irritated skin, particularly if consumers use multiple products with frequent ingredient changes.¹

With fresh skin taking centre stage, we look at three simple steps and products that will enable skin to heal and renew. Using our specialist beauty oils in product formulations can offer individuals a supportive nudge towards the use of minimal makeup and lighter coverage – by letting the natural beauty of their skin shine through.²

Oil-based cleaners

Beautiful skin starts with cleansed skin. In the past, the use of oil-based cleansers was contentious, with some experts saying it clogged pores and contributed to skin breakouts. Today, foaming lathers are in the spotlight as these products often contain stripping acids and alcohol, robbing the skin of its natural oils that keep it hydrated, soft, and supple.

We now know that a quality oil-based cleaner can protect natural moisture levels in your skin melting away the bonds that keep dirt and debris while infusing skin with beneficial nutrients. And, unlike the tight after-cleansed feeling from some cleansing agents, oil-based cleansers replenish moisture levels – leaving a smooth and balanced complexion.³ A fantastic, specialist oil for use in oil-based cleaners is unrefined Olive Oil, as it is particularly adept at removing certain types of makeup, in particular, waterproof products.⁴

Exfoliators

Sloughing off dead skin cells is a great way to keep skin soft, clear, and radiant; unclogging pores, preventing breakouts, boosting circulation, and evening out skin tone to help other products penetrate even deeper into the skin’s layers. One of the best exfoliating specialist oils is Coconut oil – due to its hydrating properties.⁵ While exfoliation can strip your skin of moisture, using a coconut-enriched scrub will help to replenish the skin. Letting the oil soak into your skin will loosen the build-up of sebum and dead skin, and clear pores, all while softening and moisturising.⁶

Super hydrating & antioxidant-rich moisturisers

A beauty all-rounder, face oils not only promote moisture levels but can regulate natural skin oils and minimise scarring. Selected face oils are brimming with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants, creating a barrier that nourishes the skin, while protecting against the environment and elements.⁷

Some of our favourite super hydrating beauty oils include Rosehip with its high vitamin C and antioxidant content. Rosehip can help repair the skin after too much sun damage and can even reverse signs of ageing caused by too much sun.⁸

Jojoba is another firm favourite. This deeply hydrating face oil is easily absorbed into the skin while providing a long-acting layer of moisture on the skin. Jojoba is jam-packed with nutrients, including vitamins E and B, as well as antioxidants, and minerals like chromium, copper, and zinc to nourish and protect – increasing skin suppleness and reducing superficial facial lines.⁹

When it comes to ageing skin and its unique hydration requirements, Almond and Coconut Oil¹⁰ are excellent choices, with research suggesting a link between the topical application of Almond oil and significant anti-ageing effects and skin barrier repair.¹¹

As more consumers take an informed and educated approach to skincare consumption, they are using fewer and more active products in their beauty and cosmetic routines. For formulation advice or assistance on how you can use our top 10 beauty oils during your new product development, simply click here for more information.

References:

1,2. Skinimalism trend will headline 2023–here’s how to ace it with the best products | Vogue India

3. Should You Be Using an Oil-Based Cleanser? | 100% PURE (100percentpure.com)

4.Olive Oil for the Skin: Benefits and Risks (verywellhealth.com)

5. Gentle Method To Exfoliate Sensitive Skin – Inspire Beauty (inspirebeautyshop.com)

6. Natural exfoliator scrubs to keep your skin soft and smooth (hotelchocolat.com)

7. Face Oils | Best Facial Oils for Anti-Aging | Cult Beauty

8 . Rosehip Oil: Health Benefits, Safety Information, Dosage, and More (webmd.com).

9.Top 10 Benefits of Jojoba Oil for Skin – Ogee

10. Best Oils for Skin: Types, Benefits, and Risks (verywellhealth.com)

11. Lin T-K, Zhong L, Santiago JL. Anti-inflammatory and skin barrier repair effects of topical application of some plant oils. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;19(1). doi: 10.3390/ijms19010070