Latest Skincare Trends (as of June 2024)

Now forgive me if I’m a little late to the game, I’ve been on social media for some time, but try to limit my exposure. I do consume a lot of self-care, skincare, beauty, and wellness content though so I’ve come across quite a few trends in the skincare community. Some I love - others not so much. In this Journal Entry, we are diving down into the world of skincare trends such as ‘Slugging’, Light Therapy, Taping, and more!

Ok, first we have ‘Skinimalism’ the Less is More Trend: Love it!

Skinimalism, a blend of "skin" and "minimalism," is all about embracing a simplified skincare routine. This trend encourages users to pare down their regimen to just a few essential products that cater to their specific skin needs. Instead of a 10-step routine, skinimalism focuses on using multifunctional products that provide hydration, protection, and treatment in fewer steps. The goal is to achieve healthy, glowing skin with minimal effort and fewer products, reducing both time and waste. I have been preaching this to my friends, family, strangers, and anyone who will listen! I love having a lot of skincare products and having a time-consuming routine, but it is absolutely not necessary! That’s just my special wellness routine - I do it because I love it not because it’s needed for beautiful healthy skin. Finding a few high quality effective products, especially an amazing moisturizer, is all you need.

‘Slugging’ The Overnight Glow: On the fence :/

Slugging has taken TikTok by storm, with users swearing by its ability to lock in moisture and deliver an unparalleled glow. This technique involves applying a thick layer of occlusive product, like petroleum jelly or a heavy moisturizer, as the last step in your nighttime routine. The idea is to seal in all the hydrating and active ingredients applied beforehand, preventing water loss and ensuring maximum absorption. While it might seem a bit greasy, many users wake up with plump, hydrated skin that feels soft and rejuvenated.

I’m on the fence with this one - I think it’s just a sensationalized way to say “put on a thick night cream”. I like the idea and I do think having a thicker moisturizer at night is a great idea and really helps you wake up with plump skin, but putting excessive product on your face may end up wasting that product as not all of it is going to absorb into your skin before you hit the pillow. Especially, if you’re using products like petroleum jelly. I am not a doctor of any sort and I firmly believe you should always do your own research, but I will never encourage someone to use Vaseline/petroleum jelly, as it could possibly contain up to 9% of mineral oil aromatic hydrocarbons which are considered carcinogenic. So this part of the trend specifically… yeah no. I wouldn’t do that. I would instead apply a thick night cream like the Forest Preserve Cream before I sleep.

Hydrocolloid Patches: I’ll take ‘em or leave em’

Hydrocolloid patches, often referred to as pimple patches, have become a go-to solution for acne-prone individuals. These small, adhesive patches are designed to cover blemishes and draw out impurities, reducing inflammation and speeding up the healing process. TikTok and Instagram users have popularized these patches for their convenience and effectiveness, often sharing before-and-after photos that highlight their dramatic results. Brands are now offering a variety of patches with additional ingredients like salicylic acid and tea tree oil to target specific skin concerns. I use them when I have them, but I’m never running out to repurchase them, maybe it’s because I’ve been blessed by the Skin Gods and don’t have a lot of spots, or maybe it’s because I don’t think they’re that remarkable. It could be either - if they work for you, grab them!

Gua Sha and Facial Rollers: Ancient Techniques, Modern Results

Traditional skincare tools like Gua Sha and facial rollers have found a new audience on social media. These tools, often made from jade or rose quartz, are used to massage the face, promoting lymphatic drainage and improving blood circulation. Videos demonstrating the proper techniques and benefits of these tools have garnered millions of views, with users reporting reduced puffiness, improved skin tone, and a more sculpted appearance after regular use. These tools also add a relaxing, spa-like element to daily skincare routines. I can’t speak for these tools giving a brighter or more even complexion, but I can say I’ve noticed they’ve helped reduce morning puffiness on the occasions I’ve experienced it. Some mornings I wake up and my eyes are puffy and just not looking good. I’ve then gone in with some facial oil and given my face a lymphatic drainage massage. I’ve noticed it helps the puffiness go down a lot quicker and it also feels heavenly!

Whether the Gua Sha and facial rollers help in any other way, like skin tone evening, contouring, etc., I’m not sure, but they do help with puffiness, relaxation, and stress relief, especially if you have a professional do it for you. Facials with Gua Sha are the best!

DIY Skincare: Personalized and Natural: Love it!

DIY skincare has seen a resurgence, with users creating their own masks, serums, and scrubs using natural ingredients. From honey and oatmeal masks to turmeric and yogurt treatments, these homemade concoctions are praised for their simplicity and effectiveness. TikTok and Instagram are flooded with tutorials and recipes, allowing users to customize their skincare based on their unique needs. This trend not only offers a natural alternative to commercial products but also promotes a hands-on, personalized approach to skincare.

I think making your own skincare is such a fun way to relax and carve out time for yourself. You’re also learning a lot about the ingredients you’re using and how they effect the skin. I remember when I was a little girl following a Michelle Phan YouTube tutorial on how to make a face mask out of Egg Whites, I still do it!

Light Therapy: Yes! Absolutely!

Red Light Therapy: Red light therapy, a popular skincare treatment, involves exposing the skin to low-wavelength red light to promote collagen production, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall skin health. This non-invasive method can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars while boosting the skin's natural healing process. To do red light therapy at home, you can either invest in a high-quality red light therapy device, such as a panel or handheld device or purchase a red light bulb from the store! All you have to ensure is that the device/bulb emits wavelengths between 620-750 nanometers for optimal effectiveness. If you purchase a specialized skincare device, follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage, typically involving sessions of about 10-30 minutes a few times a week. If you’re buying a regular bulb, do the same as just stated, a few sessions for 10-30 minutes. Consistency is key, so incorporate red light therapy into your regular skincare routine to achieve the best results. I personally use the Skin Gym LED Mask, as it was the most affordable at the time of purchase, and because I didn’t realize I could go out and get an ordinary bulb! I will be trying a that out in the future though!

Blue Light Protection: With increased screen time becoming a norm, blue light protection has emerged as a critical aspect of skincare. Products designed to protect the eyes from the harmful effects of blue light emitted by digital devices are gaining popularity and now there are products protecting the skin! Ingredients like niacinamide, zinc oxide, and antioxidants are highlighted for their ability to combat blue light-induced aging and damage. Social media users are quick to share their experiences and favorite blue light-blocking products, emphasizing the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of skin health. This is a very new topic of interest for me, so I don’t have too much to say as I need to do more research on this subject. Stay tuned for a future Journal Entry on the benefits and the negative effects of Blue Light.

The latest skincare trends on TikTok and Instagram reflect a shift towards more mindful, minimalist, and sustainable practices. Whether it's simplifying routines, embracing traditional tools, or DIY-ing, these trends highlight a growing desire for healthier skin and a healthier planet. As these platforms continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly keep influencing and inspiring our skincare journeys, one post at a time. Leave your favorite skincare trends I may have missed in the comments!