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 layer effect) you can improve the skin condition for specific skin needs without unnecessary extra products. By first allowing the serum to be absorbed and then using a cream (from light to somewhat heavier), you ensure that both formulas have maximum effect. Such a duo can really do wonders for your skin, especially for a extremely dry facial skin, provided you don't overdo it with all kinds 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 skin: when the sebum regulation is disturbed by, for example, too strong cleansers, your skin will react by producing more sebum. This causes that annoying greasy layer to form during the day.
• 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, also known as retinol, is a proven anti-aging ingredient. Are you looking for the best anti wrinkle cream? Then pay attention to the presence of retinol. It not only stimulates collagen, but also reduces pigment spots and evens out the skin texture. Retinol has a skin-renewing effect and that is why it is extra important to also ensure hydration to restore the skin.

Read more about this ingredient here and retinol serum experiences of others.

Hyaluronic Acid: A Hydrating Powerhouse

Hyaluron hydrates the skin like no other. It best hyaluronic acid serum is 100% natural and contains hyaluronic acid in two different molecular sizes. This allows the active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the skin and at the same time effectively hydrate the skin surface.

Use it on slightly damp skin (after your toner), followed by a cream or oil to seal in that moisture. Hyaluron is great to apply daily, morning and night, because it doesn't overload or irritate easily. Hyaluronic acid and pregnancy? 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 properties. A perfect combination in a facial peeling to gently remove dead skin cells. Glycolic acid works superficially and removes 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 a reputation as a calming, restorative and antibacterial agent. In combination with the right ingredients it can intensively restore dry or irritated areas.

When your skin needs some extra love due to flaking, minor damage or eczema – propolis provides a calming, soothing effect. Propolis ointment is perfect for applying to vulnerable areas at night, 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.

Just add a natural serum for your face if you notice that your skin needs more. For example, when your face still feels tight after the cream or if your complexion remains dull and light pigment spots do not disappear. Also when the first fine lines become visible or your skin elasticity decreases, a serum can give that extra push 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: a light and dry facial oil is also very suitable for oily skin? Rosehip oil can help against pigment spots and fine lines. If facial oil for oily skin In combination with acne we definitely recommend our organic facial oil Detox Oil with Tea Tree. 

Need extra care?

Sometimes your skin just needs a little something extra, like exfoliation. Instead of harsh scrubs or daily exfoliation, use a fruit acid peeling for home (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 lines, dark circles or bags. 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.