A Facialist’s Guide to a Minimalist Skincare Routine

By Michelle Harding, Facialist & Founder of Groom

After more than a decade working hands on with skin, one thing has become very clear to me: great skin doesn’t come from complicated routines.

In fact, many of the skin concerns I see are sensitivity, breakouts, dehydration, irritation and are often made worse by too many products, not too few. This is why I created Groom’s Everything range , and why I advocate for a simple, supportive, minimalist approach to skincare.

What is a minimalist skincare routine?

A minimalist skincare routine is a simple, intentional approach that focuses on fewer, multi functional products designed to support the skin barrier rather than overwhelm it.

Instead of layering multiple actives and steps, a minimalist routine typically includes:

• A gentle cleanser

• A nourishing serum

• A protective balm or moisturiser

As a Facialist, I’ve seen time and time again that when skin is given what it needs and not too much of what it doesn’t it begins to rebalance and repair itself naturally.

Is minimalist skincare better for sensitive skin?

In many cases, yes, minimalist skincare is ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.

Sensitive skin often struggles not because it needs more treatment, but because it’s been over treated. Reducing the number of products used helps and here add some reasons why:

• Calm inflammation and redness

• Reduce ingredient overload

• Strengthen the skin’s natural barrier

This gentle, consistent approach is one I regularly recommend in the treatment room, especially for clients experiencing sensitivity, breakouts, or flare-ups.

Can you use the same skincare products every day?

Absolutely. In fact, using the same well formulated products daily is one of the best things you can do for your skin as consistency allows the skin to:

• Build resilience

• Maintain hydration

• Repair and protect itself over time

Constantly switching products can confuse and stress the skin. Daily use products should feel supportive, not reactive something I always consider when recommending or creating skincare.

What skincare routine do Facialists recommend?

Most Facialists recommend routines that prioritise:

• Skin barrier health

• Hydration and nourishment

• Gentle cleansing

• Fewer, multi-use products

Rather than chasing quick fixes, a facialist led routine focuses on long-term skin health. This is why many professionals lean towards plant-based, multi functional formulas that work with the skin, not against it.

Is multi use skincare effective?

Yes. Multi use skincare can be extremely effective when it’s thoughtfully formulated.

A high quality multi use product can replace several steps in your routine while still delivering:

• Hydration

• Nutrients

• Protection

• Barrier support

This approach not only simplifies skincare, but also reduces the risk of irritation caused by layering too many ingredients.

Why fewer skincare products can actually improve your skin

One of the most common things I see as a facialist is overuse of skincare.

Using fewer products can help by:

• Reducing inflammation

• Allowing the skin barrier to repair

• Minimising unnecessary ingredient exposure

Often, when clients simplify their routine, their skin becomes calmer, clearer and more balanced.

A simple 3-step skincare routine I recommend as a Facialist

At Groom, I created a simple 3 step routine that was missing from the store shelves. It has been designed to be used daily, morning and evening, and suitable for all skin types.

Step 1: Cleanse

The Everything Cleanser gently cleanses the skin without stripping or disrupting the barrier, removing impurities while maintaining hydration.

Step 2: Treat

The Everything Serum delivers lightweight nourishment and hydration, supporting the skin’s natural repair processes and helping maintain balance.

Step 3: Protect

The Everything Balm seals in moisture, protects the skin barrier, and can replace moisturiser, eye cream and finishing products in one simple step.

This routine reflects how I treat skin professionally, simple, supportive and consistent.

Final thoughts from a Facialist

Healthy skin doesn’t need to be complicated.

In my experience, some of the best results come from doing less, but doing it well and doing it consistently.

Minimalist skincare allows the skin to breathe, rebalance and function as it was designed to something I see every day in my work as a Facialist.

Thank you for reading and I hope I helped.

Lots of love Michelle x