![](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.ctfassets.net%2F69qx72t49ip2%2F6im8YUko1uoVmDBZzxMFtX%2F600fab5b86b0519b9b7c753ae4f0dd7c%2Fskin_streaming.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
Adarsh Soni
From Khushi Kapoor’s fresh-faced glow at promo events for The Archies (2023) to minimal makeup at Chanel’s latest haute couture show — barely-there-beauty is having a moment. But it’s about more than just dialling back on the cut creases and the contouring: Your skincare routine also needs to be Mary Kondo-ed.
What is Skinstreaming?
With over 100 million views on TikTok, it’s safe to say that #Skinstreaming is one of the biggest beauty trends of the year. Short for skin streamlining, it calls for a minimal approach to skincare with a sharp focus on the essentials. No complicated 12-step routines here.
The Benefits
Most people think that using different products for specific skin issues is the way to go. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Your skin is more likely to absorb and benefit from fewer, higher-impact products, and that’s what skinstreaming is all about. It’s simple: The fewer products you put on your face, the lower the risk of your skin getting irritated, as some combinations of products can disrupt your skin barrier.
How to Skinstream
Going back to the basics: All you need is a really good cleanser, moisturiser, and a broad range sunscreen in the morning; and instead of SPF, a retinol-based product for the evening. You can indulge in additional serums and masks every now and then, but don’t use them every single day.
It’s all about the ingredients: The whole point of this regimen is to give your skin the chance to breathe, so it’s best to steer clear of common irritants. Ideally you should already know what works for your skin and what doesn’t, but it’s always great to consult your dermatologist if you don’t.
Multitasking for the win: Investing in products with multiple benefits will help you declutter your skincare cabinet for good. Need salicylic acid for your acne? Get a cleanser that contains the powerful active. Can’t live without ceramides? How about a hydrating moisturiser infused with it?