As the industry moves towards minimal maintenance and natural beauty going into 2022, these are the five biggest changes to expect.
As we wave a welcome goodbye to 2021, I spoke to a few beauty industry experts to find out their predictions for the year ahead. Notably, among the five trends predicted to grow across beauty in 2022, a focus on natural changes and enhanced health runs throughout skincare, hair care, makeup and dentistry.
1. ‘Skin minimalism’
With most of us now back in the office, at least a few days a week, we no longer have the time (nor energy) to indulge in long skincare routines. And after the explosion of skincare influencers across social media recommending product after product in recent years, you’re probably overwhelmed by it all as well. Next year, we’ll see this shift as skincare routines turn minimal and skin health will likely improve as a result.
Excessive skincare regimes (such as the popular 10-step skincare trend from 2020) can leave your skin barrier extremely vulnerable, increasing redness and contributing to breakouts. Consultant dermatologist Dr Justine Hextall’s first tip to combatting this is to find the right cleanser. “If your skin feels tight after cleansing, find a more gentle, preferably hydrating product that leaves the skin feeling soft and hydrated.” For those dealing with skin sensitivity across their body, she says: “If skin is super sensitive and irritated, shower water and shampoo can cause redness and irritation. After showering, use a gentle, hydrating cream cleanser to remove residual soap or surfactant which, when left on skin, will dry it out.”
2. Aesthetic dentistry
With the global market predicted to be worth about £21bn by 2026, aesthetic dentistry will continue to be a booming trend in the beauty industry this year — but with veneers out of fashion, it’s all about subtle changes. “The minimal visibility and ease of use of aligners such as Invisalign has made orthodontic treatment far more appealing for adults and teens who would otherwise be put off by traditional fixed braces,” says Dr Alastair Smith, specialist orthodontist at Pallant Orthodontics, West Sussex. And while Invisalign may be best known for discreetly straightening teeth, it also brings plenty of other beauty benefits. “With the teeth and jaw being the ‘frame’ of our faces, orthodontics use Invisalign as a natural alternative to veneers, fillers and facial surgical procedures,” says Dr Alastair.
Read more: Can cosmetic bonding give you the perfect smile?
3. Blue light protection
While UV rays are by far the most damaging for our skin, causing ageing and hyperpigmentation, protecting against blue light will soon be a hot topic – especially for skin of colour. Research has shown that blue light can cause hyperpigmentation in those with dark skin (Fitzpatrick types IV-VI). Not from your phones though, but from the sun.
“For unwanted pigmentation such as melasma, I can’t overstate the importance of protecting your skin against visible light,” says Dr Hextall. “Finding a high-protection sun cream is key. I recommend a mineral sunblock to reflect away all wavelengths.”
4. Rise in facial treatments
At-home skincare regimes are here to stay but, as we’ve less time on our hands, dermatologists are reporting increased demand for facial treatments. Traditional facials, however, are no longer in vogue – it’s all about advanced treatments.
“Non-surgical treatments should, in my view, be based around helping to improve skin texture, tone and hydration,” says Dr Hextall. “I recommend nano-fractional laser for correcting skin texture issues and post-acne scarring, and a medium-depth peel to even skin tone. Good Botox that softens and lifts the skin is also underestimated in my opinion.”
5. Scalp health
Healthy hair comes from a healthy scalp, and according to hairdresser and certified trichologist, Guy Parsons, investing in quality ingredients will get quality results. “One in three people I see have some form of scalp issue, with the most common causes being washing hair too infrequently or too frequently, and ignoring issues like psoriasis and dandruff,” he says.
This year we’ll likely see more scalp serums and treatments hit the shelves, but Guy says you can keep things simple and still have a healthy scalp. “Keep it clean, and if you must wash your hair daily, try a gentle cleanser to add softness and shine. Wash your hair thoroughly using good pressure and movement to stimulate blood flow and encourage cellular division.”
