Minimalist India Review: Serums & Creams for Skincare

I have been using serums from Minimalist from 2021, when someone told me that women need to start taking care of the skin from their mid-twenties (not mid-thirties as I originally thought!) After much trial and error, I found a balance of serums that suited my skin (acne-prone, oily T-zone, dry cheeks). All the Minimalist products are available on Amazon.in as well as their own website.

What are Minimalist skincare serums?

Minimalist skincare serums are concentrated formulations designed to deliver high doses of active ingredients to the skin. These products are usually lightweight, fast-absorbing liquids that target specific skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, hydration, or overall skin texture. Serums are typically applied after cleansing and before moisturizing in a skincare routine.

How are Minimalist serums different from my usual skincare routine?

Serums are different from creams because:

• Packed with Good Stuff: Serums are loaded with active ingredients, way more than your regular moisturizers. This means they can target and tackle specific skin issues.
• Feels Light: Most serums are as light as a feather with a watery feel. They’re easy to put on and get absorbed easily.
• Deep Dive Powers: The molecular structure of serums are built to dive deep into your skin, delivering the good stuff where it matters most. Take that, thick creams!

How do you use serums?

I generally wash my face first (can’t be bothered with a cleanser), and then apply the serums, and then pat on some light moisturizer (if needed). If I’m going out in the sun, then sunscreen too. I’ve started using Lotus Herbals sunscreen, which, unlike other sunscreens, doesn’t leave me looking like a white ghost for 30 minutes.

How do I figure out which Minimalist serums will suit me?

It will be a bit of a trial and error, but here is a guide, depending on your skin type:

For acne-prone skin

• Minimalist 2% Salicylic Acid Serum For Acne, Blackheads & Open Pores | Reduces Excess Oil & Bumpy Texture
• (This one didn’t suit me) Minimalist 10% Niacinamide Face Serum for Acne Marks, Blemishes & Oil Balancing with Zinc

For marks and pigmentation

• Minimalist 2% Alpha Arbutin Serum for Pigmentation & Dark Spots Removal | Anti-pigmentation Face Serum For Men & Women with Hyaluronic Acid to Remove Blemishes, Acne Marks & Tanning
• (Not tried) Minimalist 3% Tranexamic Acid Face Serum for Melasma, Pigmentation, Erythema & Acne Scars 

For a healthy glow

• Minimalist 10% Vitamin C Face Serum for Glowing Skin (Formulated & Tested For Sensitive Skin) | Highly Stable | Non Irritating | Non Sticky | Brightening Vit C Formula For Men and Women
• (Not tried) Minimalist 5% Niacinamide Face Serum for Clear Glowing Skin, Reduces Dullness, Hydrates & Repairs Skin with Vit B3 & Hyaluronic Acid, Day & Night Serum for Dry & Sensitive Skin, For Women & Men,30 ml
• (Not tried) Minimalist 2% Hyaluronic Acid + PGA Serum for Intense Hydration, Glowing Skin & Fine Lines

Anti-aging

• (Not tried) Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Face Serum For Anti-Aging For Beginners | Night Face Serum With Retinol & Q10 To Reduce Fine Lines & Wrinkles
• (Not tried) Minimalist Multi Peptide Night Face Serum for Ageless Younger Skin, 30 ml | Collagen Boosting, Hydrating & Overnight Repair Serum
• (Not tried) Minimalist Retinol 0.6% Mid-Strength Anti-Aging Face Serum For Unisex, Reduces Fine Lines & Wrinkles

It’s essential to note that serums alone may not provide complete skincare; they are often used in conjunction with other products like cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreens for a well-rounded routine. Additionally, individuals with specific skin conditions or concerns should choose serums based on their unique needs and skin type. Always patch test new products, and if you have any concerns or specific skin conditions, consulting with a dermatologist is advisable.

I see Minimalist face washes, cleansers and creams. Do you recommend them?

I love their Vitamin B moisturizer! (10% Vitamin B5 Gel Face Moisturizer For Oily & Acne Prone Skin). It’s very light and not at all oily.

I also like their salicylic acid face wash, which is great for oily skin. I haven’t tried any of their other cleansers or hair products, so I can’t comment.

Isn’t it too expensive?

Yes, the serums are quite expensive, but note that you only use a few drops at a time. Also, it doesn’t have all the other ingredients that your usual creams have, so it is quite gentle on the skin. Worth it, in my opinion.

Can men use serums?

Of course, if you’re skin is troubling you, or if you just want to add a glow, definitely consider using a serum. Do make sure you do a patch test first to ensure the serums don’t cause any adverse reactions.

Any other comments about Minimalist beauty products?

I love the “minimal” packaging, and have noticed that there are some competitor products with very similar packaging so be careful. I have also noticed that Minimalist sometimes suddenly stops producing a particular serum (for example, Azelaic Acid Serum). I’ve started using The True Therapy 10% Azelaic Acid Serum with Witch Hazel Extract instead. Overall, I am a big fan of Minimalist.