By Hilary Metcalfe
If you are a big skincare enthusiast like me, you get how the world of skincare has become a whirlwind of harmful products, overwhelming advice, and often, a lot of noise. With every swipe on social media, we're bombarded with 10+ step routines, harsh chemical treatments, and buzzwords and trends that leave our heads spinning. In the midst of it all, our skin is exposed not just to this avalanche of information, but also to environmental aggressors, UV rays, pollution, and oxidative stress that wreak havoc on our complexion. And let's not forget the unseen culprits: Endocrine disruptors lurking in many skin care products that can interfere with our hormone balance, leading to imbalances reflected on our skin such as acne, pigmentation, eczema, dermatitis or sensitivity, and other skin issues that are not just cosmetic but health concerns.
Here's the truth: Your skin is not just a reflection of the products you use but also of your overall lifestyle, internal health, and even your emotional state. That’s why these hacks are more than just quick fixes—they’re habits to accompany mindful and holistic lifestyle choices to truly support your skin and overall wellness. At The SABI, we’re all about embracing a “less is more” philosophy because when it comes to skincare, your hormonal health and wellness, it’s not just about what you add, but also what you take away.
So, ditch the noise, streamline your routine, and check out our top 10 skincare hacks that will make a real difference. These tips are rooted in the idea that nurturing your skin’s natural processes is the key to long-lasting, glowing skin.
1. Take 1-2 Days Off Actives Per Week: Give Your Skin a Break.
We’ve all been guilty of overdoing it with our actives—retinol on Monday, AHAs on Tuesday, a Vitamin C serum every day. But did you know that this constant usage is more of a bombardment than cure, doing more harm than good? Overusing actives can weaken your skin barrier, leading to redness, dryness, and increased sensitivity. Give your skin a couple of days each week to rest and recover. On these days, focus on gentle hydration and nourishment with products that are calming and barrier-repairing. Think ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and soothing botanical extracts. It can be as simple as an olive oil and honey mask, right in your kitchen cupboard, deeply nourishing and hydrating. Leave on for 20 minutes post cleanse at night and rinse off. Follow with moisturiser of choice. We love The SABI Prebiotic Cream for gentle nourishment daily without heavy actives. By taking a step back, you’re allowing your skin to strengthen and function at its best.
2. Don’t Wash Your Face First Thing in the Morning—Delay That Cleanse!
Yes, you read that right. If you’re spending your mornings working from home or just lounging on weekends, there’s no need to rush into washing your face. During the night, your skin produces natural oils that help protect and moisturise. Washing them away first thing strips your skin of this protective layer. Instead, let your skin enjoy those oils for a bit longer and cleanse around midday when you’re more likely to have accumulated sweat, dust, or morning grime. Or, consider a water rinse and pat dry only with a light face oil or moisturiser to follow up pre makeup. It’s a gentle, skin-loving approach that keeps your barrier intact and reduces the risk of dryness or irritation.
3. Face Yoga: Say Goodbye to Puffiness
Lymphatic drainage in the form of Face Yoga isn’t just a fancy spa term—it’s a powerful technique that can drastically reduce puffiness, boost circulation, and enhance your skin’s glow. This gentle massage helps move stagnant fluids, reduces inflammation, and even supports your immune system. All you need is a light touch and a few minutes of upward, outward strokes using your fingertips. Incorporate it into your morning routine to de-puff tired eyes or your nighttime ritual to relax before bed. It’s a simple but effective way to sculpt your face and support your skin’s natural detox processes. Here’s one of my favourite quick but effective routines.
4. Incorporate The Active Nutrient Serum: The All-in-One Glow Enhancer
Forget complicated layering—meet your new holy grail: The Active Nutrient Serum. This lightweight, silky serum is a powerhouse of skin-loving ingredients designed to enhance your skin’s natural glow while supporting its overall health. Packed with adaptogenic seaweed, hyaluronic acid, and collagen-boosting botanicals, it not only hydrates deeply but also strengthens your skin’s barrier and improves elasticity. Its brightening properties help tackle hyperpigmentation and dark spots, making it perfect for all skin types and concerns. Just a few drops deliver intense moisture, protect against environmental aggressors, and support your skin’s microbiome for a radiant, balanced complexion.
5. For Blackheads and Sebaceous Filaments: Glycolic Pads to the Rescue!
Let’s face it—blackheads and sebaceous filaments are part of life. But you don’t have to let them take centre stage. Glycolic acid pads are your secret weapon against those pesky pore-cloggers. These pads exfoliate dead skin cells and dissolve the oils that cause blackheads, leaving your skin smoother and more refined. Use them once or twice a week (not on your off-actives days!) to keep those pores clean and clear. Remember, it’s all about balance—don’t overdo it, or you’ll risk irritating your skin. Always perform acid peels or use these type of products at night to avoid UV exposure on a compromised skin barrier. Also consider that the best time to peel is in your follicular and ovulatory phase. Skip the days near or on your period when skin is more likely to be sensitive and redden. A little goes a long way and timing is key!
6. Shield and Shine with Mineral Sunscreen
Opt for a natural, mineral-based sunscreen with ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals provide a physical barrier against UV rays without the harmful chemicals found in many conventional sunscreens, such as parabens and phthalates. Not only are they better for your skin, but they are also reef-safe and environmentally friendly. For an extra glow, mix a small amount of your mineral sunscreen with the Active Nutrient Serum to create a smooth, dewy finish that also protects your skin throughout the day.
7. Brush Your Teeth Before Your Skincare Routine
Here’s a tip that might surprise you: always brush your teeth before starting your skincare routine. Toothpaste residue can irritate the skin and make it more sensitive, especially around the mouth area. Plus, bacteria from your toothbrush can easily transfer to your face, negating all that hard work you put into cleansing. Flip the order, and you’ll have a cleaner, less irritated canvas for your serums and moisturisers to work their magic.
8. Always Refresh and Hydrate on the Go
When your skin feels tight, oily, or just plain tired, a quick spritz of our Reviving Face Mist can work wonders. This Face Mist is packed with prebiotics and adaptogens that help hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin barrier. Unlike traditional face mists that can sometimes just be glorified water, this mist replenishes your skin’s moisture levels throughout the day with targeted botanicals, especially crucial if you’re battling dehydration-induced oiliness or breakouts., It’s perfect for a midday pick-me-up, setting makeup, or just giving your skin the extra drink it craves.
9. Oil Cleansers: Ditch the Rough Scrubs, Embrace the Smooth Glide
Makeup wipes and harsh scrubs, be gone! Oil cleansers are here to revolutionise the way you remove makeup and grime. Contrary to popular belief, oil cleansers don’t clog pores; instead, they bind to dirt, makeup, and excess oil, lifting them away gently without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. It’s like a gentle hug for your face, especially at the end of a long day. Plus, oil cleansing can help improve skin texture over time, reducing the appearance of rough patches and promoting a smoother, more even complexion.
10. Go for All-Natural Products: Protect Your Skin’s Microbiome
The last but arguably most impactful tip—choose all-natural skincare products. The chemicals in conventional products can disrupt your skin’s delicate balance, leading to breakouts, sensitivity, or worse—endocrine disruption, which can impact your hormone balance. Opt for hormone-safe, clean formulas that are free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances. Protecting your skin’s microbiome isn’t just about looking good; it’s about supporting the overall health of your skin and body. When your skin’s microbiome is in harmony, your skin barrier is stronger, and you’ll see fewer issues like inflammation and dryness. You can read more here about how all-natural will elevate your skin.
Your Skin Is Your Story—Nourish It Mindfully
As you embrace these skincare hacks, simplicity is your best friend in the journey to healthier skin. By cutting through the noise and focusing on what truly nourishes your skin, you're not just changing your skincare routine—you’re redefining how you care for yourself.
Each of these tips is a gentle reminder that your skin doesn’t need endless products or harsh treatments to thrive; it just needs a mindful approach that respects its natural rhythms. So, go ahead and pare down your routine, trust your skin’s innate wisdom, and let the “less is more” philosophy guide you to a glow that’s authentic, lasting, and truly your own. Here’s to an all-natural skincare journey that’s not just effective but empowering. Your skin—and your peace of mind—will thank you for it!
ABOUT HILARY
Hilary is the Co-Founder of the SABI, a Holistic Nutritionist, natural, whole foods Chef, product developer and advocate for women getting to know their bodies, cycles and selves better. Born in Los Angeles, California and raised in Baja California, Mexico, she now lives in Amsterdam, The Netherlands with her partner Kees, a curly-tailed rescue dog from Curacao, Flint and her rainbow baby, Paloma.
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