Gen Z is skin conscious and deeply invested in it. Their relationship with skin care is honest, consistent and complex, influenced by contradictory portrayals on social media, ranging from perfect skin to real and imperfect skin to the enviable ‘clean girl aesthetic’. This duality has given rise to a nuanced approach, as Gen Z navigates the spectrum between idealized beauty standards and authentic self-acceptance. They accept their imperfections and aim to develop healthy skin glow with consistent skin care practices.
In an interview with Dr. Sonali Kohli, consultant dermatologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, Mumbai, she revealed various tips to get glowing skin. She elaborates, “Achieving flawless skin health is a journey that involves understanding your skin, maintaining a regular routine and making healthy lifestyle choices. By following these tips and taking a holistic approach to skin care, anyone can achieve a natural, glowing complexion.”
understanding your skin
No one has the same skin type, so a one-size-fits-all skin care routine will be ineffective. Dr. Kohli explains, “Identify whether your skin is oily, dry, combination or sensitive. This will help you choose the right products and treatments. Be sure to pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and environmental factors. If you notice any reaction, adjust your routine accordingly.
daily skin care routine
Figuring out the correct sequence of skin care steps can be tricky. With new skin care products hitting the market every day, the skin care routine can seem overwhelming. Dr. Kohli suggests following a simple skin care regimen to cut through the distracting clutter of skin care products. She shared a 4-step skin care routine that is easy to follow.
“Start with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping your skin of its natural oils. Look for sulfate-free options. Then to tone, apply toner to balance the pH of your skin and prepare it for the next steps. Opt for an alcohol-free toner with soothing ingredients like rose water or witch hazel. The next step is to moisturize and hydrate your skin with a mild, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Oily skin also needs moisture to stay balanced. And finally, never stop applying sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
weekly treatment
Weekly treatments deeply cleanse your skin and provide additional nutrients to the skin. “Exfoliate gently once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover,” says Dr. Kohli. Choose products with AHA or BHA for effective exfoliation. Use face mask also. Treat your skin with a hydrating or purifying mask, depending on your skin’s needs. Clay masks are great for oily skin, while sheet masks can boost hydration.
adopt a healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle has a significant impact in getting the vibrant glow of the skin. By adopting a conscious and informed lifestyle, visible improvements in the skin are visible. Dr Kohli highlights four important lifestyle changes:
Healthy Diet: It is essential to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and healthy fats. Foods high in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, can improve the health of your skin.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.
Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Your skin repairs itself while you sleep, so rest is important for a healthy complexion.
stress management: Stress is harmful for your skin, so it becomes necessary to manage it. Stress can be reduced by practicing stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation or journaling.
embrace minimalism
The temptation to join the race for a new skin care trend or product is common. But minimalism is the best approach to skin care. Dr. Kohli reiterated this by emphasizing the importance of ‘less is more’ in skin care practices. “Instead of a complicated routine, focus on a few high-quality products,” he said. This approach is not only more sustainable but also gentle on your skin. And look for products with natural, clean ingredients. Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate your skin.
Tech-savvy skin care
Gen Z’s natural comfort with technology makes them one of the most tech-savvy generations. Tech can also be incorporated into skin care. Dr. Kohli suggests using skin care apps to track skin care routines and product usage. Some apps can even analyze your skin and recommend products. She also advised investing in at-home skin care tools like facial cleansing brushes or LED light therapy masks for better results.
Also read: Morning vs. night skin care routine: Discover the key differences and why each is important for your skin’s health and glow
