The more skin care the better… or not?

In short: more products does not automatically mean a more beautiful skin. For specific skin needs, a serum combined with a cream (due to the so-called layer effect) can greatly improve the condition of your skin. However, stacking even more pots and tubes is often more hassle (and more expensive) than improvement. We firmly believe in “less is more”. Because a few high-quality clean beauty products are often enough for a healthy, radiant skin - without overload. Better for your skin and the environment!

The layer effect: how a serum + cream actually works

With a good serum-cream combination (the so-called layering effect), you improve skin condition for specific needs without unnecessary extra products. By allowing the serum to absorb first and then applying a cream (from light to slightly heavier), you ensure that both formulas work to their maximum potential. Such a duo can truly work wonders for your skin, especially for extremely dry facial skin , provided you don't overdo it with all sorts of other skincare products.

Why We Think More Is Always Better

Of course you want the best for your skin and we are willing to invest time, effort and money in it. Influencers flood us with products and hypes. Take for example the Korean skincare routine that consists of (hold on to your hats!) at least 10 steps. This makes us believe that your skin will only really glow when we use all these products - but in practice that is not necessary. Mainly because our skin can only process a limited amount of active ingredients at the same time.

Why excess is actually harmful

Your skin barrier is made up of different layers. Together they form your natural shield against dehydration, pollution and bacteria. When this shield is weakened—by combining too many ingredients—your skin can literally start to protest. In other words, if you simply continue with layer after layer (essence, ampoule, scrub, sheet mask, booster and another cream), you overstimulate your skin.

Your skin barrier becomes unbalanced and your natural protective layer no longer functions optimally, resulting in skin problems. Especially when your skincare routine consists of products with questionable additives, such as parabens, sulphates or synthetic fragrances and dyes.

Consequences of overloading the skin

A poorly functioning skin barrier can have several causes and one of them is the use of the wrong or too many skin care products. You can then suffer from:

• Dry spots and flakes face: your skin feels tight and small flakes appear.
• Redness and itching: a disrupted skin barrier allows external stimuli to penetrate more easily, resulting in redness and irritation.
• Perioral dermatitis: this form of eczema is also called clown eczema named for the red rash around the nose and mouth. Often related to excessive or overuse skin care.
• Fat skinWhen sebum regulation is disrupted by, for example, overly strong cleansers, your skin will react by producing more sebum. This creates that annoying oily layer throughout the day. Believe it or not: balm cleansing is mild and also suitable for oily skin.
• Impurities: piling up all kinds of cosmetic products can clog pores, causing blackheads and pimples. Suffering from an impure skin that is out of balance? Try Chamomile & Probiotics soothing toner!
• Accelerated skin aging: An excess of antioxidants without the proper balance can promote the formation of free radicals, causing direct skin damage and premature aging.

The solution? A simple but effective skincare routine with simple organic products that really do something for your skin.

“Less is more”: choose quality over quantity

At Flow Cosmetics we are convinced of a minimalist, well-considered approach with respect for your skin and nature. Focus on hydration and protection with carefully selected ingredients that are proven to work. Think of hyaluronic acid (hydrating), probiotics (barrier repair) and natural oils (nutrition and protection).

Look for “all-rounders” in your skin care

There are some ingredients that, through their multi-faceted action, offer multiple benefits in one step. This way, you can enhance your skincare routine without adding unnecessary extra products. A few examples:

Retinol: for a smoother and more even skin

Vitamin A, or retinol, is a proven anti-aging ingredient. Are you looking for the best anti-wrinkle cream ? Then look for the presence of retinol. It not only stimulates collagen but also reduces pigmentation spots and evens out skin texture. Retinol has a skin-renewing effect, which is why it is especially important to ensure hydration to repair the skin.

Read more here about other people's experiences with this ingredients and retinol serum.

Hyaluronic Acid: A Hydrating Powerhouse

Hyaluron hydrates the skin like no other. The best hyaluronic acid serum is 100% natural and contains hyaluron in two different molecular sizes. This allows the active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the skin while simultaneously effectively hydrating the skin surface.

Use it on slightly damp skin (after your toner), followed by a cream or oil to lock in that moisture. Hyaluronic acid can be applied daily, morning and evening, as it is not easily overloaded or irritating. Hyaluronic acid and pregnant ? This ingredient is safe for you and your baby to use during pregnancy.

AHA + BHA: for mild yet deep cleansing

AHAs (such as glycolic acid) and BHAs (such as salicylic acid) are known for their exfoliating action. They make a perfect combination in a facial peel to gently remove dead skin cells. Glycolic acid works superficially, removing soft flakes, while salicylic acid penetrates deeper into the pores to loosen sebum and bacteria. The result is a more even skin texture, fewer impurities, and a clear, fresh complexion.

Propolis: exceptionally effective

Propolis is a natural complex that bees make from resin. Since ancient times, propolis has had a reputation as a soothing, restorative, and antibacterial agent. In combination with the right ingredients, it can intensively repair dry or irritated areas.

When your skin needs extra love due to flaking, minor damage, or eczema, propolis provides a calming, soothing effect. Propolis ointment is perfect for applying at night to vulnerable areas, so that your skin looks smooth and healthy again when you wake up.

The three must-haves for your skincare routine

Regardless of your skin type, these are the three most important skincare routine steps :

1. Start with a mild cleanser. Always use a mild, natural cleanser without sulfates. This way you remove dirt and excess sebum without drying out your skin. Tip: use a facial toner. A moisturizing facial spray as a toner is an easy and relatively cheap way to restore your pH and moisture balance directly after cleansing and to calm the skin. For sensitive or dry skin, it is best to cleanse with a cleanser in the evening and only use a toner in the morning. Want to know more? Also read: what is a toner for your face.
2. Serum and/or cream. You don't need to buy both a day cream and a night cream; one natural water-based face cream is enough. A good cream contains a high number of active ingredients, is lightweight and can be quickly absorbed by the skin be included.

Only add a natural facial serum when you notice your skin needs more. For example, when your face still feels tight after using cream, or if your complexion remains dull and light pigmentation spots do not disappear. Also, when the first fine lines become visible or your skin elasticity decreases, a serum can provide just that extra boost to support your skin.

3. Finish with a natural facial oil

A natural facial oil is ideal for dry or mature skin. Apply a few drops after your cream to add extra nutrients and seal in the moisture and active ingredients from previous products. 

Did you know that: a light and dry facial oil is also very suitable for oily skin? Rosehip oil, for example, can help with pigmentation spots and fine lines. As a facial oil for oily skin in combination with acne, we absolutely recommend our organic facial oil Detox Oil with Tea Tree.

Need extra care?

Sometimes your skin can use just that little bit extra, such as exfoliation. Instead of harsh scrubs or daily exfoliation, use an at-home fruit acid peel (maximum twice a week). This removes dead skin cells without damaging the barrier.

The delicate skin around your eyes also sometimes needs extra care, for example for fine wrinkles, dark circles, or bags under the eyes. In that case, consider a natural eye cream with green tea extract and peptides.

Listen to your skin and only give it what it really needs to keep it healthy and radiant. This way you keep your routine clear, prevent overload and see long-lasting results.