Skinimalism – it's good for your face AND for your pocket

The idea of Skinimalism has really caught on in 2026.  It’s about ditching complicated routines with multiple products in favour of a simpler skincare plan.  And using fewer, high-quality products for healthier, more natural-looking skin.

Skincare Specialist, Rosa Scialo, said: “I love the idea of using the start of the year as an opportunity to review what we’re doing from a beauty perspective.  There are so many products on the market and so much information online that it’s easy to be drawn into constantly buying ‘the next best thing’.  But do we need them all?”

Rosa has some suggestions for what’s necessary.  And what we could do without if we want to give our skin – and our pockets – a rest.

Facial wipes  - nope

A cost that can be cropped according to Rosa.  They tend to smear dirt and make up around the face rather than clean it off.  Leading to blocked pores and irritation. Prolonged use can dehydrate the skin, and they are often not biodegradable.  So let’s dump them!

Cleanser – yes but it doesn’t need to cost a packet

The purpose of cleanser is to remove dirt, sweat, make up and pollution from the skin and get it ready for other skincare products.  It’s a skincare necessity.  But this is where you could save some money says Rosa.   “Cleanser is an ‘on and off’ product – it doesn’t stay on the skin – so it doesn’t need to be expensive.”  

Gel, foam and cream are the most common types of cleansers.  Rosa adds: “If finances are tight then opt for a gel or foam cleanser.  Cream cleansers contain oil and this upsets the skin’s PH balance which then requires a toner to set things right.”      

Exfoliator – yes please

This is a big yes from Rosa.  A fabulous product for giving the skin a proper clean and removing dead cells.  Not for daily use so it lasts well.  It also allows moisturisers and serums to penetrate the skin more effectively.

Toner – can be dropped

Rosa says this is a step we could lose. Toner removes any remaining impurities and rebalances the skin’s PH after cleansing (if you’re using a cream cleanser).  Rosa adds: “Like cleanser, toner is an ‘on and off’ product.  It doesn’t stay on the skin.  So, provided you don’t use a cream cleanser, you can do without!”

Serum – well worth it

Now we’re talking according to Rosa.  Definitely worth the investment.  Serum is used to deliver potent ingredients that address specific skin concerns – from aging to plumping and hydrating. Best applied to damp skin and do pat rather than rub it in.

Moisturiser – definitely

Rosa feels this is non-negotiable: “moisturiser is an important step for everyone because no matter what your skin type – it all needs moisture.  It also acts as a barrier between the skin and the atmosphere and locks in serums – which are usually water based.”  Whilst there are undoubtedly benefits to using both a day and night cream, the main thing is to moisturise.  So, one cream twice a day can absolutely work if you’re looking to cut back on products.

SPF – don’t leave home without it

This one is an absolute yes from Rosa: “You shouldn’t leave home without a facial SPF of at least factor 50.  And that applies all year round.”  From March to September, it protects you from UVB rays and through the Winter it guards against UVA.  Both are harmful to the skin but in different ways.  Rosa also warns against simply relying on a moisturiser or foundation that includes SPF protection.  She says: “the correct dosage for your SPF is two squeezes, each the length of your finger.  When using a ‘combination’ product people tend to under apply and rarely reapply through the day.  Plus, many SPF-labelled moisturisers are primarily tested for UVB (burning) protection and may offer inadequate protection against UVA (aging) rays.”

Sheet Masks – no need

Home sheet masks are often positioned a ‘treat’ product.  But Rosa isn’t convinced: “these work out very expense on a cost per use basis.  If you must use them, then biocelulose are better than paper.  These are made from fermented natural fibres that create a very fine, gel-like, biodegradable material that acts like a second skin when applied”

But in terms of value for money, Rosa suggests opting for a mask in a tub or tube: “With a 50ml container you’re going to get 10-15 applications and it ill likely be a better quality product.”

The last word goes to Rosa

Having worked in the beauty industry for nearly 40 years, Rosa really knows her stuff.  Summing up her thoughts on Skinimalism, she says: “A regular skincare routine is very important but there are economies that can be made and some products that could be dropped – or swapped for cheaper options."

But she does have a final word of warning: “It’s easy to assume that swapping to multi-purpose products could be more cost effective.  And this type of product can be useful for holidays if you’re trying to pack light.  But for everyday use, buying dedicated products that serve a single purpose is by far the best bet.”

Rosa end: “It’s a good idea to get a periodic skincare review.  And I’m always happy to provide this service for my clients.  We need to remember that our skin alters as we age, with hormonal changes and even with the seasons.  A professional review allows you to make sure that the products you’re using are the right ones for your skin and that you are spending your money in the most effective way for you.” 

At her Beckenham-based beauty clinic, Rosa offers a wide variety of non-invasive skincare treatments and creates bespoke beauty solutions that are tailored to the needs of your skin. She also stocks leading skincare retailers, such as Matis Paris, ALLSKIN | MED, Biretix and Heliocare, so can advise you on the best products to suit your skincare woes. 

To find out more, give Rosa a ring on 07719 568651 or book in for a treatment.