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Keeping your body healthy is important, and that includes your skin. When your skin barrier is strong, it protects your skin from external stressors and locks in moisture; when it’s damaged, irritants and allergens seep in and water evaporates, leaving your skin barrier compromised. That’s when issues can arise, leading to skin that is dull, dry and dehydrated. We’re going to explore the five telltale signs of a damaged skin barrier: increased sensitivity, dryness, dehydration, flakiness, redness and irritation as well as fine lines and wrinkles. Understanding these signs is vital to recognizing when your skin needs extra care. Here’s everything you need to know about your skin barrier plus our tips to protect it and repair it.

What Is Your Skin Barrier?

An easy way to understand how your skin barrier works is to think of your skin as a structure made of bricks and mortar. Dr. Hooman Khorasani, MD, a quadruple board-certified dermatologic and skin cancer surgeon in New York City explains: “The skin barrier is provided by structures called lamellar sheets. These sheets are between the cells of the topmost layer of skin called the stratum corneum. These structures are analogous to the mortar between the bricks in the wall of your house.” Lamellar sheets, which are composed of fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramides, hold your skin cells in place and keep your stratum corneum intact. 

What Does It Do?

Your skin barrier acts like a security guard for your skin. It shields your skin from bacteria and irritants and seals in moisture and hydration. Skin with a healthy barrier is well-hydrated, moisturized, resilient and flexible. It can better withstand the negative effects of environmental stress and ages gracefully. On the other hand, a thin or weak barrier allows irritants in and hydration out. This causes dullness, dryness and sensitivity and can lead to inflammation and premature aging.

How Does The Skin Barrier Become Damaged?

Over time, your skin barrier can become impaired. Aging, exposure to environmental stressors and everyday activities like over-cleansing cause cumulative damage that compromises its structure. Remember our brick-and-mortar analogy? Without proper care, the mortar between the bricks weakens and cracks begin to emerge. These make space for bacteria and irritants to enter the skin and for moisture and hydration to escape. 

Here are a few things that can cause your skin barrier to become damaged:

Natural aging
Pollution
UV exposure
Blue light
Bacteria
Stress
Poor diet
Harsh chemical skin care
Over-cleansing and over-exfoliating
Extreme temperatures
Genetic conditions such as psoriasis

What Happens When It’s Damaged?

One of the primary effects of skin barrier damage is transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Through this process, hydration and moisture passively evaporate through the compromised barrier, leading to dryness and dehydration. This compounds the visible signs of aging and contributes to inflammation, sensitivity and a dull-looking complexion.

In addition to loss of moisture, skin with a damaged barrier is left bare to environmental assaults by pollution, UV rays and blue light. These are three key contributors to accelerated aging, causing the skin to develop fine lines and wrinkles as well as lose volume and elasticity. 

With a weakened barrier, your skin also becomes exposed to irritants, microbes and allergens. When these penetrate the stratum corneum, they can cause inflammation, redness and sensitivity. For those with genetic conditions such as eczema and rosacea, an impaired barrier can exacerbate symptoms.

5 Signs Your Skin Barrier Is Damaged

How can you tell if your skin barrier is damaged? These are a few telltale signs that your skin barrier has weakened:

Dryness
Dehydration
Flakiness
Redness and irritation
Fine lines and wrinkles

1. Dryness

When your skin barrier is damaged, it struggles to retain moisture, leading to dryness. Dry skin often feels rough and appears flaky, making it difficult to maintain a smooth and hydrated appearance. This dryness is not just a surface-level concern; it reflects a deeper inability of the skin to hold onto essential moisture, necessitating a more nurturing and moisture-rich skin care routine. 

2. Dehydration

Dehydration goes beyond just dryness; it’s a lack of water in the skin. This can make your skin feel tight and look dull. Dehydrated skin loses its plumpness and elasticity, leading to a less youthful appearance. It’s important to hydrate the skin both internally, by drinking plenty of water, and externally, through hydrating skin care products.

3. Flakiness

A visible sign of a compromised skin barrier is flakiness. This occurs when the skin loses its ability to self-exfoliate and shed dead skin cells effectively, resulting in a buildup that appears as flaky patches. It’s a sign that your skin needs gentle exfoliation and deep hydration to restore its smooth texture.

4. Redness and Irritation

Damaged skin barriers are more susceptible to irritation, leading to redness and a feeling of discomfort. This can be exacerbated by environmental factors, harsh skin care products or even stress. It’s crucial to use gentle, soothing products that reduce irritation and help the skin barrier recover.

5. Fine Lines and Wrinkles

While some fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of aging, a sudden increase in their visibility can be a sign of dehydration and a damaged skin barrier. Dehydrated skin can accentuate these lines, making them more pronounced. Hydrating the skin can plump it up and reduce the appearance of these lines.

How Can You Protect And Repair It?

Now that you know what skin barrier damage does to your complexion, how can you protect and repair it?

1. Apply Sunscreen Daily

Rule number one for a healthy skin barrier: Apply sunscreen every single day. Dr. Khorasani recommends applying a daily sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and avoiding sun exposure when the UV index is at its highest (from 10am to 4pm). We recommend our Lilikoi Daily Defense Moisturizer SPF 40. This moisturizer is formulated with cocoa seed extract, satsuma mandarin peel and SPF 40 all-mineral protection to improve the appearance of skin exposed to blue light stress and pollution. Your skin will also enjoy the hydrating feel of the Radiant Protection SPF Fluid which contains zinc oxide to shield your skin from UVA and UVB rays. It also contains bakuchiol, a retinol alternative that smooths out the skin’s texture to minimize the visible signs of aging, and niacinamide, an ingredient that retains hydration and supports the skin barrier.  

2. Keep Skin Moisturized

Another way to protect your skin barrier is to keep the skin moisturized and hydrated. In addition to keeping your skin hydrated internally by drinking plenty of water, you can apply skin care with ingredients that replenish and retain your skin’s natural moisture. Snow mushroom is one such ingredient that rivals the humectant properties of hyaluronic acid. You can find this deeply hydrating ingredient in our Birch Water Purifying Essence, Snow Mushroom & Reishi Masque and Snow Mushroom Moisture Cloud Eye Cream.

3. Look For Antioxidant-Rich Ingredients

You can protect your skin against the drying effects of environmental stressors by loading up on antioxidants — both in your diet and your skin care. Antioxidants fight free radicals to minimize the visible signs of aging brought on by oxidative damage. Look for ingredients like Vitamin C, mangosteen, birch water and lilikoi for a potent dose of antioxidants. We recommend applying our Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum which is rich in Vitamins C and  E and ferulic acid.

4. Choose Organic Skin Care

Avoid chemical skin care that can disrupt your skin barrier. Instead, seek out natural, organic and Biodynamic® products that maintain strength and integrity. These types of ingredients infuse the skin with beneficial nutrients that optimize its health and fortify its barrier. When shopping for your favorite skin care products, beware of counterfeit cosmetics masquerading as the real thing. These often include ineffective and even harmful ingredients that won’t do your skin barrier any favors.

5. Protect The Skin Microbiome

Part of maintaining a healthy skin barrier is keeping your skin microbiome balanced. The microbiome is a community of bacteria that lives on the surface of your skin. Environmental stressors can disturb our skin’s microbiome, affecting the skin’s moisture barrier and leading to dry, dull and reactive skin. Gently prime your skin and restore its natural balance with the nourishing Kombucha Microbiome Balancing Essence. A blend of pre, pro* and postbiotics work harmoniously to enhance luminosity while key ingredients like white tea and jasmine flower soothe dry, dull skin for a healthy-looking glow. You can also use the Kombucha Microbiome Foaming Cleanser. This lightweight liquid-to-foam cleanser is crafted with targeted micellar technology to gently remove impurities without over-stripping the skin.

Curious about which products to use to keep your skin barrier intact? Chat with a licensed esthetician at an Eminence Organics Spa Partner to find the best products for your skin type and skin concerns.

*These products do not contain live probiotic cultures. 

In recent years, the emphasis on maintaining a healthy and resilient skin barrier has surged in popularity, yet the ingredients responsible for repair aren’t often talked about. As we approach 2024, a discernible trend is emerging – a shift towards skincare product formulations that speak to the science behind barrier repair.

In case you don’t know about the skin’s barrier, here is what you first need to know.

The moisture barrier is the outermost layer of the skin that helps retain water and protects it from external aggressors, like bacteria and environmental debris. Think of it like your skin’s personal bodyguard, which helps keep the good in and the bad out. It’s made up of lipids (oils) that bind your skin cells together. When intact, it’s responsible for keeping skin feeling soft and smooth. When the moisture barrier becomes damaged (such as from over-exfoliation, retinol, and the use of harsh products), small, invisible cracks appear. Through these cracks, moisture can easily escape and irritants can easily enter. The skin may start to feel tight, dry, and sensitive. Essentially, it’s like your skin lost its protective bodyguard – and it needs to be fixed!

So, What Ingredients and Methods are Best to Repair Your Barrier?

From a product formulation standpoint, these are five effective ways to repair a compromised barrier that you need to know about when choosing skincare products. 

1. Use products containing Niacinamide at approximately 2-4%

This versatile ingredient plays a crucial role in not just repairing the skin barrier but also promoting overall skin health. Niacinamide is most beneficial in serums or moisturizers left on the skin, so it has time to penetrate the skin’s upper layers and go to work.

2. Use products containing usnic acid (usnea)

Usnic acid is a natural extract from lichens that is a gentle solution for barrier repair. It balances skin’s microbiome, leaving it feeling soothed. Usnic acid can be found in products in the form of sodium usnate or Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract.

3. Use products that contain ceramides, essential fatty acids, and fatty acids

These ingredients work in harmony to strengthen and replenish the skin barrier, providing the essential building blocks for healthy skin. Look for ingredients like phytosphingosine, ceramide AP, and ceramide NP. Phytosterols are also great for barrier repair and very similar to ceramides as they’re part of the skin’s structure.

4. Use products that contain plant oils rich in fatty acids and omegas

Incorporating plant oils into our routines helps nourish the skin with essential fatty acids and omegas, promoting barrier recovery. Shea butter, jojoba oil and squalene have components similar to the structure of human sebum, making them a natural fit to protect your skin’s barrier. 

Plant oils rich in omegas are Borage Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, and Flaxseed Oil.

You can either use a moisturizer full of plant oils or apply a few drops of Pro Remedy Oil as the last step of your skincare routine to lock moisture in– here’s how to apply it the correct way.

5. Use products with occlusive ingredients 

Occlusives in skincare refer to ingredients that create a barrier on the skin’s surface, helping to prevent water loss and enhance moisture retention. It’s a common misconception that occlusive ingredients (like ceramides, squalane, and shea butter) clog pores or don’t allow your skin to breathe. In reality, the right amount of occlusive ingredients is required to create a protective seal, preventing moisture loss and aiding in barrier repair. Sunflower oil is an occlusive plant oil found in Phytolipid Comfort Creme that works to repair skin’s moisture barrier function.

Look for the following occlusive ingredients when shopping for barrier-repairing products.

As many brands tout barrier repair claims, understanding the science of how a product achieves this has grown increasingly important. Many brands will claim a moisturizer or mask will repair the barrier but it’s really important to understand how a product achieves this.  I hope this has brought you some clarity when it comes to the ‘how’ of effective barrier repair. Now you can ensure your skincare choices align with the facts behind healthy, glowing skin.

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Are you ready to build a skin care routine but not sure where to start? Enter: The Eminence Organic Skin Care Best Sellers List! These are the tried and true products that licensed estheticians and skin care enthusiasts (like you!) swear by. Keep scrolling to find out how to incorporate these best-selling favorites into your skin care routine for day and night.

Skin Care Routine For Day | Skin Care Routine For Night 

Skin Care Routine For Day

Your morning skin care routine is all about prep and protection to get your skin ready to face the day ahead. Here are six daily skin care steps to follow:

1. Cleanse

A thorough cleanse sets up your skin to absorb the ingredients in the rest of your routine. Eminence Organics Lead Skin Care Trainer Natalie Pergar advises: “You always want to begin with a cleanser. You can use a gel or milk, depending on how dry your skin is, and you want to do this in the morning and at night. Very simple.”

To get your morning routine started off right, we suggest the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Cleanser. This milky gel cleanser uses lactic acid to gently dissolve dead surface cells and reveal the glowing skin underneath. The face feels fresh and perfectly cleansed, not over-stripped. Surface buildup, impurities and blockages are removed, leaving the complexion looking clear, smooth and radiant. 

Another option is to begin your day with the Stone Crop Gel Wash. A great choice for even the most sensitive skin, this gel cleanser contains stone crop, which hydrates and nourishes, plus revitalizing chamomile and restorative shea butter. The result is skin that appears clear, smooth and bright.  

Application Tip: Cleanse with tepid water

Hot water has the potential to irritate and dry out your skin. Instead, cool things down with lukewarm water to help keep your moisture barrier intact.

2. Tone

Many of us skip this step in our skin care routines. Why? We tend to associate toners with stripping, alcohol-based astringents. However, today’s formulas have evolved to deliver moisture and nutrients that balance skin tone and prep the skin. Natalie says: “Think of your cleanser and toner as the shampoo and conditioner for your skin … Remember to use both of them daily.”

Try the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist. Ideal for all skin types, this refreshing facial mist is infused with stone crop to boost hydration and leave skin looking smooth and revitalized. This toner is particularly helpful for uneven skin types as it makes the skin appear clear, fresh and vibrant.

Application Tip: Apply to damp skin

According to Health Magazine, “Moist skin is 10 times more permeable than dry skin.” Apply a few spritzes of toner or facial mist while your skin is still damp to soak in all the skin care benefits.

3. Treat

Natalie tells us: “After you’ve prepped the skin, it’s time for all the finishing products. We always like to do what we call a “treatment” to your skin, and this helps if you have something that you want to minimize or reduce the appearance of.” Serums, concentrates and facial oils deliver active ingredients deep into the skin, helping to correct concerns and protect skin from damage caused by oxidative stress.

Three of our favorite treatments are the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum, the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum and the Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate. 

The Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Serum improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The potent Vitamin C in this serum is stabilized by botanically-derived ferulic acid and full of antioxidant-rich leafy greens to help improve the appearance of skin elasticity and hydration, while brightening the skin and improving the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

The Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Serum contains salicylic acid that gently exfoliates and brightens the look of the skin while boosting hydration. The Mangosteen Daily Resurfacing Concentrate includes a Lactic Acid Complex and antioxidant-rich mangosteen to resurface the skin, refine the look of pores and provide protection from environmental stressors.

Application Tip: Less is more

Serums, concentrates and facial oils are incredibly potent. You only need to apply three drops (oils and serums) or two pumps (concentrates) to experience their full benefits.

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4. Moisturize

All skin types need a moisturizer (yes, even if your skin is oily or acne-prone). Moisturizing is a crucial step toward keeping your protective moisture barrier intact and environmental stressors out.

If you’re dealing with mature skin, our Coconut Age Corrective Moisturizer is a great option. As well as moisturizing coconut oil and coconut water, it contains our Natural Retinol Alternative to help skin appear lifted and tightened and PhytoCellTec™ Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells that promote elasticity and delay visible signs of aging.

If you prefer something lightweight, try the Strawberry Rhubarb Hyaluronic Hydrator. This gel-cream delivers intense hydration and improves texture and luminosity, leaving skin feeling plumped and refreshed. 

Application Tip: Don’t stop at your chin 

The skin on your neck and chest needs love too. Apply your moisturizer all the way down to ensure the area stays hydrated and reaps the other benefits of the formula you choose. 

5. Apply Eye Cream

Eye creams aren’t just for your nighttime skin care routine. The right formula can work wonders by waking up tired eyes, protecting this delicate area and smoothing fine lines and wrinkles. Eye creams are best applied after serums and you only need a small amount for them to be effective.

Our recommendations for a wide-awake look? Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream and Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum. The best-selling Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream rapidly improves the appearance of puffy eyes, minimizes the look of dark undereye circles and quickly smooths the look of wrinkles.

The Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum targets the look of undereye wrinkles and crow’s feet. A blend of coconut water and green apple hydrates and moisturizes the delicate skin near the eye. 

Application Tip: Keep it cool

Leave the Hibiscus Ultra Lift Eye Cream in the fridge to boost the soothing and cooling effect of its stainless steel rollerball. This will add an extra de-puffing chill to your eye cream application.

6. SPF Protection 

It goes without saying but we’ll say it anyway: You need to wear SPF every single day. If you’re looking for a product that does double duty, our Radiant Protection SPF Fluid is a great option. This all-mineral sunscreen offers a hydrating and nourishing feel with a dewy finish. It also contains bakuchiol, a retinol alternative that helps to smooth the skin’s texture and minimize the visible signs of aging.  

If you’re after a little coverage and a mattified finish, look no further than the Sun Defense Minerals. Easily applied with the built-in brush, this natural mineral sun care adds a silky matte finish to the skin. Find your shade — or go translucent — for skin that appears even, flawless and smooth. 

Application Tip: Apply SPF liberally every 2 hours

For maximum protection, apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure and then reapply it at least every 2 hours.

Skin Care Routine For Night

When your head hits the pillow, your skin goes into overdrive, repairing, restoring and regenerating as you sleep. For this reason, your night skin care routine is all about targeted treatments that tackle your skin concerns and conditions.  

1. Cleanse

Even if you’ve gone makeup-free for the day, it’s important to wash your face morning and night. Washing at night helps remove impurities that have accumulated during the day and have the potential to clog pores, leading to dry, irritated skin and even breakouts. One of the best ways to get rid of buildup on your face is to start with a makeup remover. Our Herbal Eye Makeup Remover uses cucumber, calendula, lavender and chamomile to gently cleanse the eye area without leaving behind an oily residue.  

Follow that up with the Stone Crop Gel Wash. Infused with hydrating stone crop, this wash is ideal for all skin types as it cleanses impurities and surface buildup without drying out the skin. We also love this best seller for its ability to deeply cleanse pores without irritation, leaving the skin looking bright and feeling soft and clean.

The Mangosteen Resurfacing Cleanser is another beloved face wash that works for day and night. A customer named Sophie gave it five stars on our website, saying in her review: “This product is by far the best I’ve tried for my skin … leaves it clean and refreshed … the amazing scent adds to the beauty of the product!” 

Application Tip: Be gentle

A gentle massage with your fingertips is all it takes to cleanse the skin. Rub the product in using circular motions and then rinse thoroughly with a soft cloth.

2. Tone

Not just for your morning routine, a toner can revitalize your skin as part of your nighttime ritual. If you’re already using it in the morning, why not try the Stone Crop Hydrating Mist before bed too? A few spritzes before your serum will boost hydration and leave skin looking smooth and refreshed. 

Application Tip: Try a cotton pad

If you usually spritz on a toner or mist, try spraying it onto a reusable pad and wiping your face down. Not only will it deliver all of the benefits of the ingredients, you’ll get to say goodbye to any remnants of makeup or mask that may have been left behind post-cleanse.

3. Exfoliate

In addition to your regular cleanse, you should exfoliate a few times a week to encourage healthy skin cell turnover and renewal. Daily exposure to environmental stressors can cause buildup on the skin’s surface, making it appear dull, rough and uneven. Regular exfoliation clears this buildup, preventing clogged pores and the development of fine lines and wrinkles.

Refine your skin and achieve a bright and radiant-looking complexion with the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant. Made with flour from rice, chickpea and oats, this product gently exfoliates and buffs skin’s texture, and also features lactic and salicylic acids to remove dead skin cells. Just add water and watch this powder exfoliant transform into a luxurious paste that removes impurities, refines the appearance of pores and smooths the look of the skin. 

Application Tip: Add a powder exfoliant to your cleanser 

To save time, double up on your double cleanse. Add Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant to the Stone Crop Gel Wash to add physical and chemical exfoliation to your cleansing routine.

4. Mask

Masking a few times a week is one of the best ways to see visible changes in your skin, fast. Face masks deliver concentrated amounts of vitamins and nutrients to hydrate the skin and treat a variety of skin concerns and conditions — from fine lines and wrinkles to breakouts and large pores. The treatment you choose will depend on your skin type and on the conditions you hope to tackle.

All skin types can benefit from the Citrus & Kale Potent C+E Masque. This cream-gel mask delivers a boost of vitamins to improve the appearance of skin hydration, leaving it looking bright, firm, youthful and smooth.

Application Tip: Double mask

If one mask is good, then two is better, right? Many Eminence Organics masks pair well, and using two or more masks in one session allows you to personalize a formula that will work for your specific needs and give you the results you’re looking for. Try the Strawberry Rhubarb Masque and the Bamboo Age Corrective Masque. If your goal is skin that appears lifted and firm, this mask combo is for you.

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5. Treat

The best time to treat your skin to results-oriented actives and deeply nourishing ingredients is at night to help optimize your skin’s natural repair process. Whether you choose an oil, a  serum or a concentrate, ingredients like our Natural Hydroquinone Alternative, Natural Retinol Alternative and Smart Collagen+ Complex can help restore the appearance of the skin overnight. 

A few great treatment options include the Facial Recovery Oil or the Bamboo Firming Fluid. Let your skin soak in the goodness of Facial Recovery Oil’s Biodynamic® ingredients. A step up from organic, Biodynamic® methods enhance quality, delivering pure and potent actives that are even higher in vitamins, nutrients and active compounds.   

The Bamboo Firming Fluid is a skin-plumping concentrate that will give you tighter-looking skin. Bamboo and coconut deeply hydrate and improve the appearance of elasticity in the skin.

Application Tip: Let it absorb

Natalie recommends letting your chosen treatment absorb fully (usually around five minutes) before moving on to the next step in your routine.

6. Night Cream

It may be tempting to use your daytime moisturizer at night, but their formulas are quite different. Night moisturizers are much richer in texture and are designed to be absorbed while you sleep. Additionally, they aim to fix any damage done to the skin during the day; they replenish moisture, help repair skin’s moisture barrier and target specific concerns like dark spots and the visible signs of aging.  

In the evening, it’s vital to replenish your skin with night cream like our Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream or our Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream For Face & Neck. The luxurious Monoi Age Corrective Night Cream is infused with monoi, argan, evening primrose, jojoba and grapeseed oils to deeply hydrate skin and replenish moisture. It also includes an Argan Stem Cell Complex that leaves the skin looking firm and youthful. 

The Marine Flower Peptide Night Cream is a rich, velvety overnight essential. Full of botanical peptides, it locks in moisture and minimizes the look of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep!

Application Tip: Include your neck 

Similar to the eye area, the neck has thinner and more fragile skin than the face, making it more vulnerable to the signs of aging. When applying your night cream, be sure to include your neck: Starting from the collarbone, work your way up to your jawline using fluid, upward motions for a natural lift.

7. Eye Cream

Because the delicate skin around your eye area has a different structure than the skin elsewhere on your face, applying your regular night cream won’t be as effective. Eye creams are not only formulated for this fragile area but also contain actives to target the specific issues your eye area is prone to, including dark circles, crow’s feet and puffiness. 

At night, choose a rich formula that will deeply hydrate and plump your skin while you sleep. The Marine Flower Peptide Eye Cream is that cream. Not only does it contain naturally derived plant peptides and innovative algae extracts to reduce the visible signs of aging, this versatile eye cream provides long-lasting hydration and visibly improves the appearance of wrinkles, puffiness and dark circles. You’ll wake up to an eye area that is radiant and revitalized.  

Application Tip: Be gentle

The skin around your eye area is extremely fragile. Instead of rubbing in your eye cream, use your ring finger to gently tap it into the skin.

Watch Natalie as she discusses these best organic skin care products, how to apply them, and why you should be using them. .

Are you looking to add some of our best-selling products to your skin care routine? Visit your nearest Eminence Organic Spa Partner to find out which products will work for you!

This article was originally written in January 2019.

As we enter the era of conscious consumerism, skincare enthusiasts are shifting their focus from the glamorization of 12-step routines to a more minimalist approach. In 2024, in a market filled with numerous product options and complex ingredient lists, consumers have one simple question: How is this product going to address my skin concerns? The concept of “simple skincare” products are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer a no-fuss approach to skincare that is easy to use and potentially gentler on the skin compared to their complicated counterparts. 

In 2024, I think simple skincare products (with shorter ingredient lists and less complex formulas) may dominate the industry. I’m hearing a lot of this buzz when I attend tradeshows and there is a demand for consumers who want skincare products that are effective, yet easy to understand. This means that a focus on the basics like cleansers, toners, and moisturizers will become paramount. Let’s dive into why less is more when it comes to achieving healthy, glowing skin.

Why A Simple Skincare Routine Is Becoming Popular

Consumers are increasingly seeking simplicity in their skincare products, and for good reason. In a world filled with overwhelming choices and information overload, a simple skincare routine offers a reprieve from the chaos. With fewer ingredients and a back-to-basics approach, these products provide an effective solution without confusion. The rise of minimalism across various aspects of life has influenced the skincare industry as well. People are embracing the idea of decluttering, streamlining, and focusing on what truly matters. Simple skincare aligns with this mindset, offering a stripped-down routine that delivers results.

The Benefits

Simplifying a skincare routine can have several benefits. One of the key advantages is their gentle nature. Complex skincare products often contain a cocktail of active ingredients that can overwhelm the skin, leading to irritation, redness, and breakouts. Simple skincare, on the other hand, focuses on a select few ingredients that are proven to be effective and safe for most skin types. Using fewer, targeted products can make it easier to identify which ingredients work well for one’s skin and address specific concerns. 

A streamlined routine may also be more sustainable and cost-effective. With fewer ingredients and simpler formulas, the production costs are lower, allowing for more budget-friendly products. These products also make for more maintainable routines, reducing the likelihood of overspending on unnecessary products. With increased accessibility to these products, more consumers will be able to experience high-quality skincare without breaking the bank.

Furthermore, simple skincare routines can be easily customized to address specific concerns. For example, if you’re dealing with acne, you can incorporate a gentle cleanser, a hydrating toner, and a lightweight moisturizer that won’t clog pores. Simple skincare allows you to tailor your routine to your unique needs, ensuring that you’re giving your skin exactly what it needs, nothing more and nothing less.

The Drawbacks

A potential drawback of adopting a simple skincare routine is that certain individuals may have multiple skin concerns that require a more comprehensive routine. Many people would rather spend more money on a single product that is going to fix their acne, hyperpigmentation, clogged pores, and sun damage all at once, while others may only struggle with sun damage and would rather buy a cheaper product that focuses solely on that. Additionally, our skin can only absorb so much product at one time (the main reason behind the concept of skin cycling), so those who are seeking to address multiple concerns may want to seek out more complex products that offer a variety of benefits in just one application.

The Science Behind Simple Skincare Products

At first glance, simple skincare products may seem too good to be true. How can a handful of ingredients provide the same benefits as a complex formulation? The answer lies in the science behind these products. Simple skincare relies on a careful selection of ingredients that have been extensively researched and proven to be effective. Rather than relying on a multitude of ingredients that may or may not work synergistically, these products focus on a few key ingredients that deliver results. Examples of this include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, peptides, and vitamin C. 

One of the main principles behind simple skincare is the concept of “less is more.” By minimizing the number of ingredients, we are reducing the risk of potential interactions and adverse reactions in sensitive skin like skin type #5 and skin type #9. This allows the active ingredients to work more efficiently without interference. Additionally, simple skincare products often prioritize ingredients that have a proven track record in skincare. These ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides, have been extensively studied and are known to provide specific benefits to the skin.

What This Means As A Formulator

Another aspect of the science behind this trend is the formulation itself. As the head of New Product Development within my company, I very much try to zero in on the true purpose of each product and use ingredients to ensure they work for their intended purpose– which is why my line has 50 products that span nine different types of skin! If you’re interested in finding out which one you are take my Skin Type Quiz!

The rise in popularity of simple skincare products is not just a passing trend; it’s a reflection of a larger shift in consumer preferences. As consumers become more educated and discerning, they are demanding transparency, sustainability, and efficacy from their skincare products. In 2024 and beyond, I think simple skincare products will take center stage in the industry. Consumers are increasingly taking to the idea of a more minimalist approach that delivers results without the complexity. 

Next up, why teenagers are obsessing over skincare– and what it means for their skin.

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Winter is coming and — whether you’re excited about hot chocolate and snowball fights, or you’re curling up by the fire and nesting until spring — there’s no denying that the harsh weather can have a big impact on the skin. Read on to find out about some of the best spa treatments for winter and how to help your Clients navigate this cold, crisp season looking and feeling great.

Seasonal Skin Care Transition

The transition from fall to winter looks different depending on where you live, but it’s safe to say that the temperature is dropping and the heat, cranked. What this means is that the hot, dry air indoors is wreaking havoc on your skin, and the cold air and wind outside are doubling down. Not to worry, though, there are a lot of skin care treatments that can hydrate, reduce irritation and even warm up cold skin during these long, dark months. Clients could use some major replenishing from head to toe, and they look to you to expertly guide them through this transition, preparing them for the onslaught of harsh, cold weather.

As winter arrives, any dry skin or flakiness is probably getting more intense as the temperature drops and the weather gets more extreme. Snow, you’re beautiful but not always great for the complexion. On top of that, many of us turn to artificial sources of heat and long, hot showers or baths to help escape the cold. Both central heating and exposure to hot water can further strip skin of its natural oils, and you may find your skin becomes dry, itchy, cracked and flaky. That’s why winter skin care is so important.

Facial Treatments 

If windburn on cheeks or dry, dehydrated skin is an issue, Clients can reap the benefits of a moisturizing, rejuvenating or restorative treatment. And while many types of facials can provide benefits any time of year, certain treatments stand out as ideal choices for this season.

If your Clients are experiencing weather-related skin irritation, a rejuvenating facial is a great place to start. The Paprika Herbal Treatment is a spicy option perfect for mature, uneven or problem skin. The paprika and cinnamon rejuvenate and invigorate while sage, honey and lavender work to soothe, replenish and hydrate wind-ravaged skin, leaving Clients with a fresher, firmer, more radiant complexion.

The extreme temperatures and shifts in humidity can create the perfect storm of skin issues. Any glow that was left over from summer is long gone and dullness may have set in. Now is a good time to recommend a peel since gentle exfoliation encourages faster cell turnover, which gently breaks down the glue that holds dead skin right where you don’t want it.  

The Blueberry Detox Firming Peel has lactic acid which sloughs off dead skin cells, while juice from blueberries, raspberries and blackberries provides a shot of vitamins and antioxidants. An esthetician and a customer, Pamela S., reviewed the peel on our website saying: “I LOVE this treatment … I count on this for skin in need of a detoxifying exfoliation and a glow that lasts for days. It contains paprika, which warms the skin and increases blood flow, which is SO GOOD. A secret weapon that every esthetician needs in their back bar.”

Nothing hits quite like hot cocoa in the winter, and the Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque is a real indulgence for dry skin this time of year. Full of moisturizing oils from macadamia nuts, almonds and jojoba, plus antioxidants in cocoa and Vitamins C and E, this treat for your skin will leave it hydrated and looking firm and plumped. It’s also available in retail size, so your Clients can indulge in this decadent mask in the comfort of their homes.

Body Exfoliation 

Another great way to replenish parched winter skin from head to toe is with an exfoliation treatment. Too much time spent warming up by the fire or relaxing in a hot tub or sauna can do a number on the texture and hydration levels all over the body, causing tightness, flakes and itching. An exfoliating scrub gets rid of the dead skin cells to reveal fresher, smoother-looking skin. A beneficial treatment on its own, a body exfoliation is also a great add-on before another treatment, like a body wrap. 

A professional scrub is a wonderful way to get rid of that top layer of dead, itchy skin and reveal a smooth, hydrated glow. Our Cranberry Pomegranate Sugar Scrub creates the perfect mood for the winter season. Cranberry is high in vitamins and antioxidants, as are other ingredients like green tea and pomegranate. Our Coconut Sugar Scrub is another great option in the winter. Hydrating coconut oil is paired with revitalizing cucumber, while exfoliating natural cane sugar leaves skin feeling soft and silky. And the beachy aroma of coconuts might conjure up images of a tropical paradise, even with a foot of snow on the ground. Follow with a wrap, massage, shower and a soothing moisturizer, and your Client will leave feeling hydrated and happy.

Body Wraps

Body wraps are another year-round treatment, but there’s something about coming in from the cold to a warm and cozy wrap that sounds especially appealing. Here are some your Clients will love: 

Eminence Organics herbal body wraps are designed to heal, restore and detoxify and can be used to tighten skin along the entire body. Continuing on the hot cocoa theme, the Chocolate Truffle Body Wrap is a real indulgence this time of year. Made with cocoa, which is high in antioxidants to moisturize the skin and remove the appearance of fine lines, plus softening macadamia and almond oils, this wrap is a decadent treat for your skin. 

For a warming option, our Herbal Cellulite Treatment nourishes and hydrates the skin with honey, while paprika and stinging nettle create the sensation of heat — which is welcome during these cool months. This spicy combo helps energize the appearance of skin for a healthy-looking glow. If your Client’s skin is feeling parched, the Stone Crop Restorative Body Wrap contains aloe and powerful actives to hydrate, rejuvenate and brighten the look of skin from head to toe.

Massages 

While we’re getting cozy, the idea of a nice massage is definitely on the table. What better way to calm down during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season than with some relaxing downtime? 

Our Apricot Body Oil is a massage oil go-to that will leave the skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth and nourished. Apricot kernel oil is high in Vitamins A, C and E, and both grapeseed and jojoba oils are incredibly nourishing and hydrating. 

Another Eminence Organics oil that is perfect for massage (in the spa or at home) is the Stone Crop Body Oil, which is formulated with arnica and oils from stone crop, rosehip and avocado to moisturize.

Sleeping in makeup?! No way, we all know better, right? But at one point or another, we’ve all been there – including yours truly. After a late night out, a long work day, or just flat-out forgetfulness, falling asleep with makeup on is something we’ve all come to know. But what if I told you that this age-old skin sin is now something not only trending but even encouraged? As we make our way into 2024, I expect we will be seeing a surge in what they say is lightweight, “sleep-safe” makeup products that are “infused with skincare ingredients.” Now, are these actually safe for your skin? I’ve got thoughts!

So, What Does Sleep-Safe Makeup Entail?

Tinted sunscreens have been around for a while now and, when applied correctly, are a popular way of obtaining both even-toned skin (from the tint given off by makeup) AND sun protection with skin-safe ingredients. So, it’s no surprise that brands started looking for ways to make all makeup products like this. From color-correcting balms to hydrating blushes, and even skin tint serums, it’s hard not to find interest in a beauty routine entirely composed of potential skincare benefits. 

The downside is that you can’t be sure that your skin isn’t going to still face reactions to extended wear of these products. I also think it’s important to be cautious that the term “sleep safe” or some other variant might be more of a marketing tactic rather than a scientifically proven concept (this is where common sense comes in!).

The Reality Of Sleeping In Makeup

We’ve all been told countless times (from me and most all skincare experts!) that sleeping in makeup can bring on an array of skin concerns. The thing is, the issue isn’t technically the makeup formula, but rather the length of time that makeup is on the skin without washing. When your skin is unwashed for 24 hours, that leaves a lot of oil and debris build-up that can clog your pores and lead to bumps and breakouts. This is why it is critical to wash your face morning and night, whether you wear makeup or not. 

What’s a good solution? As I talk all about in this blog post, If you wash your skin and do your routine right before you go out at night, then sleep with your makeup on but wash it again first thing when you wake up, then wearing makeup for 12 hours (the same general length of time you do during the daytime) should be fine. Of course, I wouldn’t do this all the time but this is a strategic way of going about it if you think you’ll be too tired when you get home after a late night.

And of course, you absolutely need to be using a well-formulated makeup-removing cleanser! 

Next up, how a Skin Hiit will transform your skin!

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