The global beauty industry is a staggering 135 billion dollars, with the continued growth of 30% by 2025—the main focus on anti-aging and UV protection products. The amount of information on social media outlets such as TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram surrounding skincare routines can be overwhelming for someone looking to begin their skincare journey. The experts at Mindful Dermatology suggest that a simple but heavy-hitting active ingredient routine is the best place to start—creatively called the Palm Essentials.
Research has proven that our short-term memory can retain an average of 5 items over 30 seconds. Therefore, our skincare routine-Palm Essentials, consist of 5 items or the number of fingers on one hand.
The first 3 are the easiest and most likely ones already in your daily routine. The first and most important product in your skincare and anti-aging regimen is a facial sunscreen that offers UVA/UVB protection. Dermatologists and skincare experts often recommend looking for an SPF containing zinc oxide, a powerful sunscreen ingredient that protects the broadest range of ultraviolet rays. Brands like EltaMD, ISDIN, Alastin, and Skinbetter provide cosmetically elegant formulations that offer the highest level of protection without compromising the ability to layer makeup and other skincare products. Tinted sunscreens, which contain Iron Oxides, offer additional absorption and protection against visible light and UVA radiation, an excellent option for anyone battling pigmentation issues like melasma and sunspots.
The second is a daily cleanser for AM and PM use; the skin loves change. Pick a gentle multi-purpose cleanser for AM; check out SkinBetter Refresh Oxygen Infusion Wash as a new option. For the evening, a gentle exfoliating cleanser; we love SkinMedica® AHA BHA Exfoliating Cleanser.
The third is a moisturizer with a twist; always put it on with a damp face. The science is simple - all moisturizers have water for skin hydration and a type of occlusive ingredient to hold that water in; a damp face simply provides a little more moisture to pull past the skin barrier. Budget-friendly with luxurious ingredients-try EltaMD AM Therapy Facial Moisturizer or the patented powerhouse SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 are great options!
The following two are typically the most difficult to understand, but the best rule of thumb is ingredients are the key to your anti-aging success (and we are here to make it easy). These two ingredients are the holy grail from beginners to experts in anti-aging skincare routines!
The first in these powerhouses and in my opinion most vital ingredient to focus on when starting an anti-aging routine is vitamin A, products containing 'retinol.' These products are to be incorporated into the nighttime routine as visible light can compromise their integrity and effectiveness if used during the day. Topical retinol/retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing collagen production and are often considered the holy grail ingredient in skincare. Consumers frequently find that beginning retinol-containing products can be difficult because skin irritation is an often-unwanted side effect. Mindful Dermatology recommends beginning with lower strength retinol and increasing in strength as your skin tolerates the products better. SkinBetter AlphaRet (a product that incorporates glycolic acid into your routine without making your regimen any more complex) or Avene Retrinal are great products, as consumers often find them more tolerable. Starting two to three nights per week and working towards nightly use will help to diminish initial side effects and increase tolerability.
The last ingredient to consider when starting or boosting your routine is a product containing vitamin C. Often formulated in a serum, which provides a more concentrated amount, these are recommended for application in the morning before applying your moisturizer and SPF. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps to produce collagen, treat hyperpigmentation, hydrate skin, and reduce redness. Popular vitamin C-containing products include SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic, SkinBetter Alto, and Revision C+ Correcting Complex 30%.
The experts here at Mindful Dermatology recommend beginning your journey with these popular yet effective ingredients and consistently sticking with your routine for at least six months before changing products. It may be essential to consult with any of the medical dermatology providers at Mindful Dermatology if you have skin conditions that need addressing before beginning a skincare routine. They focus on your skin's medical and cosmetic needs and can help set you up for success on your lifelong skincare journey.
Photography by: