Look- we're all way too damn tired to be keeping up with every skincare treatment that's out there these days.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do that don't involve buying entirely new products to try out (and inevitably throw away because it didn't work, it just had cute packaging)
These little tips and tricks can make your skincare routine more effective, easier, and even more enjoyable.
Hack #1: Double Cleansing for the Win
Double cleansing is a game-changer, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen (and you should always wear sunscreen!).
Start with an oil-based cleanser to dissolve makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil.
Follow up with a water-based cleanser to remove any remaining impurities. This two-step process ensures your skin is thoroughly clean without stripping it of its natural moisture.
By effectively removing all the gunk and grime, double cleansing helps your subsequent skincare products penetrate better.
This means your serums and moisturizers can work more effectively, giving you better results. Plus, it can help prevent breakouts and clogged pores, making it a win-win for all skin types.
Hack #2: Ice Cubes for Puffiness
Had a late night crying over something that didn't deserve to be cried over? Wake up with puffy eyes? Grab an ice cube! Gently rub it under your eyes to reduce puffiness and refresh your skin.
The cold constricts blood vessels and reduces swelling, providing instant relief for tired eyes.
For an added bonus, you can freeze green tea or cucumber juice in ice cube trays.
Green tea's antioxidants and cucumber's soothing properties can amplify the de-puffing effects. This hack is not only refreshing but also gives your skin a quick pick-me-up, perfect for those mornings when you need an extra boost.
Hack #3: Honey as a Spot Treatment
Got a pesky pimple? Dab a bit of raw honey on it.
Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the size of the pimple and speed up healing. Apply it before bed and rinse off in the morning for best results.
Honey isn't just great for pimples; it's also a natural humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in your skin. This makes it an excellent all-around skincare ingredient.
You can even use it as a mask by applying a thin layer over your entire face, leaving it on for about 15-20 minutes, and then rinsing off with warm water for soft, hydrated skin.
Hack #4: Steam for Deep Cleaning
Steaming your face can open up your pores and help remove deep-seated dirt and impurities. You do NOT need a fancy face steamer thing for this.
Fill a bowl with hot water, lean over it with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam, and stay there for about 10 minutes.
Regular steaming can also improve circulation, giving your skin a healthy, natural glow. It’s a great way to relax and unwind, turning your skincare routine into a mini spa experience.
Just be sure not to overdo it—steaming once a week is usually sufficient to reap the benefits without irritating your skin.
Hack #5: Use Aloe Vera for Sunburns
Aloe vera is your best friend when it comes to soothing sunburns.
Its cooling and healing properties provide instant relief. Keep a bottle of pure aloe vera gel in your fridge and apply it generously to sunburned areas for soothing hydration.
Aloe vera is also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a versatile ingredient for overall skin health.
It can help heal minor cuts and abrasions, reduce inflammation, and even out skin tone. Incorporating aloe vera into your skincare routine can provide a natural, gentle boost to your skin’s health and appearance.
Aloe's soothing properties are exactly why you'll find it featured in a ton of our products, including our Flora Fix Blemish Tonic.
Hack #6: Exfoliate with Sugar and Natural Oil
For a simple and effective body scrub, mix sugar with almost any oil. The sugar acts as a gentle exfoliant, while the oil moisturizes your skin.
Simple sugar scrubs are perfect for those who want to avoid the harsh chemicals often found in commercial exfoliants.
Regular exfoliation can also help prevent ingrown hairs and keep your skin looking fresh and radiant.
Hack #7: Hydrate with Cucumber Slices
Cucumber slices aren't just for the spa. Place them on your eyes for about 10-15 minutes to reduce puffiness and refresh tired eyes.
Cucumber’s high water content and cooling effect can do wonders for your skin.
The natural antioxidants and silica in cucumbers can also help to soothe irritation and improve skin texture. After using the slices on your eyes, you can even rub them over the rest of your face for a quick hydrating mask. This hack is a simple, cost-effective way to give your skin a little extra love.
Hack #8: Use Oatmeal for Itchy Skin
Oatmeal isn't just for breakfast—it’s a fantastic remedy for itchy, irritated skin.
Grind oats into a fine powder and add it to your bath for a soothing soak. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm and moisturize your skin.
The beta-glucan in oatmeal forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture and providing lasting relief.
Plus, it's an all-natural, affordable option that’s gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.
Hack #9: Store Products in the Fridge
Keeping certain skincare products in the fridge can extend their shelf life and enhance their effectiveness.
Eye creams, face mists, and sheet masks feel incredibly refreshing when chilled and can help reduce puffiness and redness upon application.
The cool temperature can also help constrict blood vessels, leading to reduced inflammation and a more toned appearance.
Storing products like face wash or body butters the fridge can also help preserve their potency, ensuring they remain effective for longer.
Hack #10: Invest in a Silk Pillowcase
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction on your skin and hair, helping to prevent wrinkles and frizz.
Silk is also less absorbent than cotton, so it won’t soak up your skincare products, allowing them to work more effectively overnight.
This little luxury can make a significant difference in the health and appearance of your skin and hair, making it a worthwhile investment.
We don't sell silk pillowcases at Simple Soul Skincare, but we DO recommend mulberry silk, such as the ones you'll find from Celestial Silk.
Hack #11: Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective skincare hacks. Drinking enough water helps maintain your skin's elasticity, flush out toxins, and keep your complexion looking plump and radiant. Aim for at least eight glasses a day.
Water also helps to support your body’s natural detoxification processes, which can lead to clearer, more vibrant skin.
If you find it hard to drink plain water, try adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint for a refreshing twist. Proper hydration is a foundation of good skincare and overall health.
Hack #12: Use Witch Hazel as a Natural Toner
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help control oil production, tighten pores, and reduce inflammation.
Apply it with a cotton pad after cleansing to tone your skin and prepare it for moisturizing.
Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly beneficial for those with acne-prone or sensitive skin.
It can help to reduce redness and soothe irritation, providing a balanced, refreshed complexion. Incorporating witch hazel into your routine is a simple yet effective way to enhance your skincare regimen.
There you have it—12 skincare hacks to help you achieve your best skin ever! Incorporate these tips into your routine and watch your skin transform. If you're looking for something a little more aggressive but still really gentle- it's time to learn about incorporating science backed (and peer reviewed) essential oils like tea tree oil for that added boost.