Looking for a Minimalistic Skincare Routine? These Recommendations Might Help

I think all of our stories start in childhood; whatever we do now, is an extended impression of our childhood interests. I didn't know what skincare was, but I was genuinely interested in looking my best as a child. I would do everything my cousins suggested. Sometimes we'd all just get together and apply things like yogurt or lemon or chickpea flour or turmeric powder; whatever they said was good for the skin, and we applied that. I still smile thinking of those innocent times. 

My mother was and still is a simple woman. She doesn't wear any makeup. I believe both my parents enjoy looking good. However, they were always maintaining this high ground by rather working in their spare time, and they would rather gossip than prioritize their skin or appearance.

There were times in my teenage years when my parents preferred and appreciated anyone who would rather not do any effort on their looks and would neglect their selfcare. Somehow they thought selfcare is a distraction from living an honest and sincere life.

I don't think simplicity means that you need to ignore yourself. Simplicity means that you take care of yourself and the people around you with simple things, right? I find myself to be a very simple person. My makeup kit consists only of a lipstick and an eyeliner. I am more into skincare — and it is a really important part of being simplistic and still looking your best. 

I lived in Seoul where everyone has a skincare routine. It felt like I belonged there. It was really exciting to see all their skincare products they have. Having tried a lot of skincare samples in Korea, I figured out that the best way to treat your skin is to treat it with minimal good quality products. 

My life philosophy is to prioritize quality over quantity, whether it's in my relationships, possessions, or skincare routine.

I don't skip my skincare routine whatsoever, even if I'm too tired. I'm mostly trying to sleep on time. However, sometimes if I'm working, I might get to bed at two or three a.m. That happens a lot in the event season. I just make sure to put a little moisturizer on before I go to bed.

Skincare routine I am loyal to

My skincare routine starts with this Origins face wash, which I have been using for 5-6 years. I like Origins because it doesn't have a lot of chemicals; it's really mild. It doesn't create a lot of foam. 

Then I use an alcohol-free toner, which is also very gentle on my skin. Many people ask me what I have been using because my skin has a little glow. This Lumene serum is a brand from Finland. I've been sticking with this serum for the last 2-3 years. 

My skin is mostly dry, not extremely dry, yet dry nonetheless. And I apply this Origins Ginseng cream, which I use only a little of.

This is the oil that I really like: Pai Rosehip oil. Just a few drops make a good difference and impart that glowy touch to my skin. 

I don't suggest that you use all the products that I'm using because your skin can be different and they can react differently on your skin. You can try the small trial samples and see how they work for you. 

I use Clinique mineral sunscreen with SPF50, UVA and UVB protection. I always check the UV index in my weather app and if the UV index is greater than one, I'd wear sunscreen. Here in Europe, the UV index is either zero or one during winter, so I don't use it. However, if the weather is on the sunnier side, I definitely check my index every day, especially when I'm going out, and then apply sunscreen to protect my skin. 

I have been happy with how my skin looks and how it feels like it has become softer. We always have to stick to the products that have worked well for our skin. Do not change your products as often. I don't recommend changing your entire routine, nonetheless, if you've been looking for something really good and your skin is dry or on the drier side, you can give these products a shot.

Do not let anyone make you feel that you are a show-off for prioritizing your own well-being. Selfcare includes many things, and skincare is just one of them. Just remember to take care of yourself in your favorite ways.

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Books that helped me to build my skincare routine: 

French Women Don’t Get Facelifts by Mireille Guiliano

Ageless Beauty by Clemence von Mueffling