What are the Latest Trends in Skincare?

Skincare trends are more than just about new products and technologies. They are also about the emergence of new information that can lead to better ways of treating conditions and improving the general health of the skin. Here are some of the skincare trends that have proven a big hit in 2022 and are likely to keep being popular into the next year. 

At-Home Treatments

Thanks to the pandemic and the shutdown of many beauty salons and clinics that provided skincare treatments, many consumers sought out at-home treatment options to fill the gap. This saw an increase in the purchase and use of face masks, hydrating and chemical peels, serums, overnight rejuvenation treatments, and much more.

Over-the-counter skincare products saw a surge in demand and with people now more knowledgeable and experienced at carrying out these treatments at home thanks to online tutorials, it looks like the trend will keep going into the foreseeable future.

Even technology that was previously only available in a clinical setting has now been adapted for home use. Though finding the right equipment that will deliver professional standard results is tough, some at-home devices coming into the market do offer good skin benefits. LED light and radiofrequency tightening devices are amongst the more highly demanded options.

LED Light Masks

LED light therapy treatments have typically been a clinical offering but can now be somewhat replicated at home thanks to trending LED light masks. This therapy is great for improving complexion, stimulating collagen production, and destroying bacteria that can cause breakouts. It should ideally be complemented with exfoliation and the use of serums and creams.

Anti-Inflammatory Skincare

Inflammation can be a problem with all skin types, hence the growing popularity of anti-inflammatory skincare. These products are geared towards treating the skin more gently by nurturing it. While part of this requires an understanding of what triggers this reaction and causes skin dysfunctions, there are now also skincare products that can help in preventing, controlling and minimising bouts of inflammation. Check out brands like ASAP, Heraux, and Dr Barbara Sturm for anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing serums.

Skinimalism

A play on the words skin and minimalism, skinimalism is a 2022 trend focused on having people take a simpler approach to their skincare routines. It seeks to have people adopt a less is more philosophy in achieving their desired skincare results. Many people have become overwhelmed by the wealth of information and range of skin care products in the market and are avidly embracing this option that allows them to keep their skincare routine simple and reduce the risk of exposure to products that may cause irritation.

Retinol alternatives

Retinol proved itself to be a revolutionary ingredient in the skincare industry. This vitamin A derivative delivered many benefits including boosting collagen production, reducing blemishes, smoothening fine lines and correcting hyperpigmentation. However, with time it was also found to often cause irritation for those with sensitive skin and possibly unsuitable for those that are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Thankfully there are now retinol alternatives that deliver similar benefits even to those that could not tolerate the original well. Bakuchiol and retinaldehyde have proven to be very powerful yet effective alternative options. They work faster and be safer for everyone.

Sustainability

People have all long grown to become more environmentally conscious and willing to make changes that will ensure minimal carbon footprint or harm to the planet. Skincare consumers are thus more interested in brands that offer eco-friendly products, with refillable and recyclable packaging. They also want to know that the ingredients in the products have been ethically and sustainably sourced.

This is a growing trend that is likely to keep growing in momentum, hence the reason we are seeing more eco-friendly products on retailer shelves and online shops. It is however a gradual process as brands continue to carry out research and experiment with different ways to achieve these goals while still holding on to their market share and ensuring they can still meet industry standards when it comes to hygiene.

Beyond Sunscreen

As people begin to spend more time outdoors after the prolonged restrictions of the pandemic period, they are also emerging more knowledgeable about the need to protect themselves against more than just UV damage. They now want a sunscreen that will also protect them from pollution like smoke and exposure to germs, bacteria and viruses. Specialised and enriched sunscreens are now in high demand as a means of shielding the skin.

Blue Light Protection

Most sunscreen protection does offer effective filtering against Blue Light that emanates from the devices that have become a bigger part of daily life, especially during the pandemic. This light is believed to cause such skin problems as ageing, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. A good place to start would be using skincare products that are rich in antioxidant ingredients and iron oxides.

Fermented Skincare

Popular in the Asian markets, this trend has gained more traction in the west thanks to the potency and longevity of its ingredients. Fermented foods are known for being great for keeping the digestive system in check and now this process has been adapted to help the skin.

Fermentation breaks down active ingredients into smaller and simpler molecules. This process helps the skin by facilitating the same breakdown and allowing for easier absorption of active skincare ingredients by the skin. It is a highly recommended option that causes less irritation for sensitive and dry skin types. Try the popular Kombucha Cleansing treatment.