As the skincare industry flourishes, we face an overabundance of information on how to enhance our complexion. Despite my lengthy routine and the endless amount of products cluttered up in my bathroom cabinets, I have not found a practical solution for my skincare needs. In my search for a streamlined approach to skincare, I tuned in to Hailey Bieber’s ‘Skin School’ live stream with specialist Dr. Barbara Sturm. Here’s what I learned:
On Her Skin Care Routine
Ever since K-beauty became widespread in American markets, the 10 step skincare regimen has bloomed into an obsession among beauty gurus. Hailey, however, follows a simplified routine that consists of three essential steps which include a cleanser, serum, and moisturizer. If she has more time, she applies spot treatment and face masks. She applies her products immediately after showers when her skin is damp and can better absorb the ingredients. Hailey also notes that you won’t see results if you don’t stay consistent with your regimen. “I think staying on your regimen is so important,” she explains. “You can’t get lazy and be like for two days I’m going to stick to this and then for three days I don’t feel like doing it”
On Skin Damage
Looking after your skin is about more than applying products. Your daily habits also impact the health of your skin. Skin-damaging habits to avoid include a poor diet, unhealthy sleep patterns, keeping your hair in your face, and excessive sun exposure. In addition, your beauty rituals cause your skin even more harm than good if you are taking long hot showers, shaving without foam gel, or using harsh ingredients. These practices disrupt our skin barrier and cause our skin to become susceptible to inflammation.
On Clean Beauty
Hailey advocates for using clean skincare and makeup products. She believes it is important to be conscious of the environment and animal testing when shopping for products. However, despite the growing trend of green skincare and makeup, many products with organic labeling may not actually be organic. Hailey recommends reading about brands, products, and ingredients on an online database that rates the safety of personal care products. “I think it’s really important to know what’s going into your skin and what your skin is going to be absorbing,” she notes. Dr. Barbara Sturm adds that natural products are not always better alternatives to synthetic products since natural ingredients such as essential oils in raw form provoke irritation.
On Makeup
If you use makeup, don’t apply makeup directly on your skin. Hydrate your skin first, and then apply makeup. It is also important to clean your brushes daily since makeup brushes easily carry bacteria that can clog your pores. Instead of cleaning your face with makeup wipes, use a foam cleanser. Although makeup wipes seem like a quick-fix, they can be harsh and push residual makeup and dirt into your skin. Hailey acknowledges that some cleansers cannot break through heavy makeup, so she recommends a cleansing balm or a creamy substance.
On Breakouts
If you experience breakouts, you can add a few products to treat your skin during your flare-ups and then switch back to your routine. “I’m all about being conscious of breakout cycles,” Hailey adds. If you notice hormonal breakouts in the days leading up to your period, she recommends having a spot treatment you trust. During flights, Hailey’s skin becomes especially dehydrated so she prepares for travel by carrying moisturizer for her lips and under eyes.
In an oversaturated beauty market, more does not mean better. Hailey’s tips are a starting guide for anyone looking for a simplified approach to dewy skin. Skincare does not have to be complicated or confusing. By changing your habits and examining ingredients, you are on your way to maintaining a healthy glow.