Why Holistic Skincare Is the Future of Healthy Skin

Holistic Skincare

Why is ‘Holistic’ skin care important?

A holistic skin care means caring for your skin by addressing the whole person-not just treating surface symptoms, but looking at the deeper connections between your skin, your body, your mind and your lifestyle. Holistic does not mean “anti-science”, it’s science-informed, but with a broader lens.

Creating a solid skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated- just consistent and tailored to your skin type. The routine should focus on supporting your skin’s natural barrier, using minimal but effective ingredients, and aligning with your lifestyle and internal health. The routine should cater to your skin’ needs, depending on your age and skin condition. It would also depend on your daily activity, sun exposure and the atmosphere you live in. The idea is to keep the skin care routine simple, easy to comply, effective and pocket friendly.

MORNING

The main goal of the morning routine is to protect and hydrate. Start with a gentle and hydrating cleanser, if you have extremely dry skin you can skip the cleanser and wash your face with only water. A lightweight moisturiser to rehydrate your skin, followed by a broad-spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. I personally recommend applying 2 layers of sunscreens (30mins apart) to get an even and full coverage protection. Re-apply every 2hrs, especially if you are outdoors. 

EVENING

The evening routine on the other hand is an opportunity to repair and nourish. Double cleansing is a must to remove the dirt, sweat, sunscreen and makeup. Use an oil based cleanser first, followed by a gentle/hydrating cleanser. The next step would be to use your actives, prescribed by your doctor to address your skin concerns or to improve/prevent damage. Seal it all in with a good moisturiser. 

The above are things used from the outside, none of these would help heal the skin from within. What does help the skin from within would be- hydration, nutrition, sleep and stress management. 

Male v/s Female

Although the core skin care principles are the same for all genders, there are some key biological and behavioral differences between male and female skin that may influence product choice or routine emphasis. Increase in skin thickness, higher sebum production, higher collagen density (hence, slower skin aging), daily facial shaving and more acidic pH are some characteristics of male skin. Therefore, more thorough cleansing, using after shave lotions, lightweight moisturisers and a heavy duty sunscreen should be prioritized by men. 

TIPS & TRICKS:

• Consistency > complexity

• Give a product (recommended by your skin doctor) at least 4-6wks before switching 

• Be gentle

• Patch test any new product on your jawline or inner-arm for 2-3days to check for allergy/reaction

• Layer products correctly, allow 30-60secs between layers

• Don't mix actives unless it’s advised by your skin doctor

• Use different skin care routine for different seasons

• Toss out expired and oxidised products and also those which have been open for too long