5 Skin Care Trends for 2017

The beginning of a new year is one of our favorite times not only for a chance at a fresh start but also to look ahead at what industry insiders predict will be the new skin care trends to watch out for in the coming months.

A year ago, we touched on 5 trends: wellness in the workplace, multi-masking, spa tourism, spa subscriptions and natural ingredients. Both the multi-masking and the clamor for natural ingredients were undoubtedly on-target. Masks and “green” ingredients will continue to be in high demand this year with no signs of slowing down.

So, what can we look forward to? Here are our 5 favorite skin care trends for 2017:

• Exotic Ingredients: With the growing popularity of Korean beauty products, North American consumers are becoming more comfortable with slightly more “exotic” ingredients, according to Mintel, the market research company that tracks and predicts consumer trends. Asian skincare innovation is now the benchmark and consumers appear to be ready to give unusual formulations a chance to work their magic. Get ready to give snail slime, yuza and bamboo a lot of love. (Ahem, dare we call ourselves on the cutting edge? We’ve already made bamboo powder one of the key ingredients in our popular Apothekari Body Polish).
• Probiotics: You’ll also be hearing a lot more about probiotic-based skincare. What’s good for the body is apparently good for the skin, in this case. The theory is that probiotics applied topically may prevent the body from identifying the bad bacteria as a threat while simultaneously calming the skin enough to prevent the immune system from going into “fight” mode. Packed with good bacteria, probiotic-based skincare is poised to make its foray into mainstream markets. There is very little proof yet that probiotics are good for the skin so with all things new and buzzy, make sure to do your research first.
• Clean and Simple: Complementing the movement toward more natural ingredients, consumers are ready to simplify their facial cleansing routine. Instead of the legendary but laborious 10-step Korean regimen, we’re looking for gentle, basic and easy. Cleansing oils will see competition from potent cleansing balms, a more spill-proof and precise way of sweeping away the day’s dirt. Bonus: many balms need only to be wiped off with a soft, damp washcloth, leaving behind enough hydrating and antioxidant benefits to see you through the night.
• Facial Massage: This relaxing and seemingly-indulgent trend is quickly becoming de rigueur, even with routine facials. Performed with upward strokes, a facial massage stimulates the skin for a healthy glow while encouraging more blood flow and a natural lifting and toned effect. Plus, it’s relaxing, and don’t we all look younger when we’re relaxed?
• Beauty from the Inside Out: It’s a long-held truth that you are what you eat, and a healthy diet will not only help you feel good but also look good. What’s not so clear is whether or not beauty supplements, like collagen drinks and oral hyaluronic supplements, can benefit the skin directly. The optimist in us wants to believe that swallowing a simple pill will help us regain the skin of our youth, but the skeptic tells us to wait for more science-based evidence. If you decide that beauty supplements are right for you, choose wisely. There aren’t many clinical studies to support claims made by some manufacturers. This is the one trend we’re most curious to revisit in a year.