2019 is almost over and the final verdict on skincare is out. Natural ingredients, multi-tasking products and unique formulas ruled the roost. Intensive, complicated routines were replaced by simple, minimalistic ones. We are pretty sure skincare took precedence over makeup this year. Trust us, we aren’t the only ones saying that. We even got the expert word in.
Dr. Apratim Goel, Expert Dermatologist, explains, “This year, people became aware of the fact that no amount of makeup can conceal the true quality of skin.” Dermatologist Dr. Aanchal Panth, adds, “With the launch of new products daily, there has been a renewed interest in skin health amongst people. Social media has also played a role in this change as we all want our skin to look flawless in a selfie.” So, wanna know which cleansers, toners, moisturizers made it to the top list? Get scrolling!
• Best Skin Care Products: #1 Natural Potions
Did we mention we are big fans of clean beauty here? We are super excited to dump those plastic tubs for good and move on to sustainability, like rn. The fact that it trended big in 2019 is proof that all of you are listening to this much-needed change too.
Our Favorites:
1. Plum Green Tea Alcohol-Free Toner
Pick any Plum product and you will be doing a favor to the environment. Time to ditch those harsh-on-skin alcohol-based toners? This one’s free of parabens, SLS, DEA and phthalates. Those with acne-prone skin will love this bottle of goodness — it is loaded with Green Tea Extracts and Glycolic Acid that will exfoliate dead skin cells. End result: Smooth, clear skin. Grab on to one of the best face products ASAP!
2. Khadi Natural Herbal Skin Toner Rose Water
It’s a given that this toner smells good (Rose water, duh!). To top that, it fights all signs of aging, keeps your skin hydrated and nourished for hours at a stretch. You think we are done listing down its benefits? This daily toner is completely natural — it’s free of parabens, SLS and mineral-oils. Yup, it true.
3. Nykaa Naturals Tea Tree Essential Oil
You know if the essential oil has Tea Tree in it, it is an acne-fighter. In addition, this natural oil will reduce pigmentation, skin redness and bring parched skin back to life. Take a few drops and massage it gently all over your face or only on the problem areas. And trust us, it blends into your skin so seamlessly that you won’t even feel like you’ve applied oil.
• Best Skin Care Products: #2 One-Product-For-All
Without a doubt, 2019 was the year of minimalism a.k.a one product for all your skin issues. ‘Coz stocking your skincare kit with more of everything only means more wastage and let’s face it, the old-school, intensive skincare routine is more complicated than useful. Dr. Aanchal adds, “You don’t need to include five moisturizers, four sunscreens and ten serums in your skincare routine. A basic skincare routine is the ideal choice."
Our Favorites:
1. Bio Oil
We all have that one friend who recommends Bio Oil for everything and for good reason. This multi-tasker is the one-stop solution for pigmentation, ageing, scars, stretch marks and basically, any skin problem on the planet. All thanks to its star-studded ingredient list — Vitamin A‚ Vitamin E‚ Calendula oil‚ Lavender oil‚ Rosemary oil‚ Chamomile oil and PurCellin Oil.
2. WOW Skin Science Aloe Vera Multipurpose Beauty Gel - For Skin & Hair 130ml
‘Multipurpose’ is a dead giveaway, isn’t it? The Aloe Vera gel scores points for merely existing. a) it moisturizes your skin. b) It boosts collagen production, promoting anti-aging. c) It takes care of your scalp. Oh yes, it’s that efficient with an effective blend of Aloe Vera Juice, Xanthan Gum and Citric Acid.
3. Lotus Herbals Safe Sun 3-in-1 Matte-Look Daily Sun Block Pa+++ SPF- 40
Like sunscreens weren’t multitaskers already, here’s one that doubles up as a tinted moisturizer. What’s the three in the name for? It boasts of skin lightening ingredients too. And, unlike other sunscreens, this natural variant won't make your face greasy — in fact, it will reduce oiliness and refine your pores. Who else wants to sign up for shiny, smooth skin?
• Best Skin Care Products: #3 Gel-Based Formulas
Featherlight, moisturizing gel-formulas are a much-needed break from those thick, greasy creams. Especially, if your skin is as dry as the Sahara. Also, the cooling effect of these water-based formulas is such a relief when the temperatures are soaring outside.
Our Favorites:
1. Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel
Plump, bouncy skin - that’s the reason to include this genius gel-formula in your moisturizing routine. Of course, it is oil-free and suits all skin types (given!) but what makes it a hydrating superstar is the top ingredient of the year — Hyaluronic Acid. Dr. Apratim is a fan too. She adds, “Hyaluronic acid is a substance prepared by our own body and so, it’s extremely safe to use. Because of its ability to draw and hold water, it can also be used as a humectant in your skincare regime."
2. Plum Green Tea Renewed Clarity Night Gel
The perfect night cream was a myth till we stumbled upon this Plum goodness. With Argan Oil, Glycolic Acid, Organic Aloe Juice and Green Tea Extracts, the formula is sooooo good that even using too much of it is beneficial. Slather on before you go to bed and get set to wake up to moisturized, radiant skin every day. It’s too good to be true!
3. Aroma Treasures Aloe Vera Gel
If you have never tried Aloe Vera gel to ward off those unwanted pimples, who are you even (seriously!)? This gel is even better as it pairs Aloe Vera with essential oils like Rosemary, Tea Tree, Peppermint and the list goes on… So, it’s not just a pimple fighter but also, the perfect pick for skin hydration and rejuvenation.
• Best Skin Care Products: #4 Sheet & Face Masks
Does your Sunday morning ritual involve masking and a whole lot of it? Same here, sister (virtual hi-five!). So, the fact that masks were trending in 2019 too is not surprising, not even a tiny bit. What was different this year? The unique ingredient combinations that topped the charts.
Our Favorites:
1. Nykaa Skin Secrets Gooseberry + Papaya Sheet Mask
There are two kinds of tan: a holiday tan that you can’t get enough of and the other kind which is practically a sunburn and definitely not appealing. The Gooseberry and Papaya blend is for the latter as it removes tan, lightens blemishes, nourishes skin and leaves you with a long-lasting glow.
2. The Face Shop Real Nature Red Ginseng Face Mask
If sheet masks are your go-to for everything, you already own this baby. Enriched with Ginseng Extracts, this sheet mask is not merely a hydrator. In addition to moisturizing, it removes dead skin cells, even tones complexion and boosts skin vitality. Think of it as your personal skin transformation tool.
3. TONYMOLY I'M Lemon Mask Sheet
If there was an award for the cutest sheet mask, it would go to TONYMOLY, hands down. C’mon have you seen the packaging? The fact that it is rich in Amino Acids and Lemon Extract only makes it a must pick. The unique blend will revitalize dehydrated skin and leave you with brighter, healthier skin. Leave it on for 20 minutes and watch the magic unfold.
So, there you have it, all the skin buzz and hits that made 2019 a wonderful year for skin.
