From microbiome care to azelaic acid, here’s HUNGER’s skincare predictions for 2024
Beaut-AI
As the possibilities of AI grow, so does the skincare market. The next step? A fusion of the two industries in order to create a tailored skincare routine just for you. Already, artificial intelligence is revolutionising the beauty market with virtual make-up try-ons and NFTs by the likes of Shiseido, but skincare technology company Renude is miles ahead in the game, combining a comprehensive skin analysis to identify a range of issues, and subsequently suggesting the best ingredients for you. Renude’s AI technology is trained to think like a multitude of highly trained experts, finding your specific skin concerns and creating a routine to deliver visibly better results. And don’t worry, alongside this technology comes your own IRL aesthetician to answer any ongoing questions as your routine evolves.
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Azelaic Acid
Glycolic and salicylic acid have had their day in the sun (not literally, as they increase sensitivity of course), and now we are making way for a new kid on the block: azelaic acid. The multi-functional ingredient is garnering attention for its specific skin targeting abilities, as it treats conditions such as acne, rosacea, and pigmentation. Apply a pea-sized amount up to twice a day to utilise anti-inflammatory properties without irritating the skin. This in turn combats bumps and redness, and brightens skin whilst keeping the pores clear. It’s proven to be safe for those with very sensitive skin, and is even completely pregnancy safe. The only downside to your new azelaic acid routine is that the organic compound can be a tricky substance to formulate with as it is not able to dissolve in water or oil. Luckily, there is a new and improved iteration on the market in the form of potassium azeloyl diglycinate (PAD) – which is much easier to use and mix.
Back-to-basics routines
Eat, sleep, complete your 20-step skincare routine, repeat. But it doesn’t have to be that extensive at all, with people now opting to strip back their routines and favour multi-functional products — knowledge of your specific needs and having only one or two products on the nightstand is the new trend. Our ‘For You’ pages and feeds are stacked with professional influencers as opposed to PR-ad obsessed individuals squeezing ten brands into one 15 second clip. The likes of Dr. Sherene Idriss, Caroline Hirons, and Jadé Marie are all fans of keeping it simple and natural by honestly reviewing the ingredients that work best for them. With this, old ingredients we used to swear by coming back into the spotlight. Urea, which is often used in moisturiser and attracts and retains moisturiser, is set to make a return, as well as glycerin (known for hydrating and softening the skin), and cholesterol (known as an emollient to soften and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles).
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Microbiome friendly
It may sound super scientific, but microbiome friendly simply means that the product does not disturb our microbial balance, which then helps reduce the diversity of microbiomes (such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses), which are naturally found inside us and on our skin. The likes of prebiotics and probiotics took over the beauty industry recently to help promote the maintenance of a healthy community of microorganisms in the body, which is now being adopted by skincare products. It is predicted that there will be a slew of microbiome friendly related product releases in the next year, dubbed to revolutionise the skin, scalp, and body care sectors. All you need to do is double check the label for a legit microbiome friendly certification and you’re good to go.
Hormones and diet
This year, the idea of ‘inner beauty’ is being taken to a whole new level. Many experts have begun exploring the links between our diet, hormones and our skin health. Superfoods are being promoted as part of our daily diet in order to maintain a symbiotic relationship between the body and overall well being, which includes the upkeep of our skin. By understanding our own diets, the industry is dubbing the likes of wellness drips and vitamin intakes as the new ultimate skincare trend. Another element of this for women in particular is the rise in research surrounding the menstrual cycle and our skin – finally! Many products are already addressing flare-ups during menstruation such as Dr. Sam’s Skincare or Amareta, but some are now venturing past this to formulate products to support your entire cycle, meaning prevention of unwanted symptoms is at the forefront of new evolutions.
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Sunscreen hybrids
With the idea of the ultimate multi-functional products on the rise, sunscreen is due to get a formulaic makeover this year. Any skincare connoisseur will tell you the importance of SPF underneath (and in) your makeup, and the industry has already completely changed the way we approach our sun exposure care. So as we adopt sunscreen that is kind to our skin, brands are set to incorporate theirs into a whole new range of mists, serums, and makeup products. There will also be a rise of mineral sunscreen for those concerned about prolonged chemical sunscreen use, meaning naturally occurring active ingredients that create a physical barrier on the skin will become more popular. Maybe soon, we won’t even know a skincare product without added SPF protection functions. Keep your eye out for any of your go-to products getting their safe and effective suncare solution makeovers.
