4 German Skin Care Trends

When you think of leaders in global skin care, K-beauty, or Korean beauty, is probably the first thing to come to mind. Maybe you’re also familiar with classic French girl beauty rules, such as the powers of micellar water or the impact of a bold red lip color. But there’s another European country that’s often overlooked in the beauty world that actually boasts one of the oldest skin care histories: Germany. That’s right, it turns out that the same attention to detail and technology that defines other German industries also applies to skin care. It’s time to get familiar with German skin care, which is why we’re exploring four German skin care trends.

German Skin Care Trend #1: Hyaluronic Acid

If you’re not already familiar with the serious skin benefits of hyaluronic acid, you’re missing out—and women in Germany would agree. One of the key goals of nearly all anti-aging skin care is to retain and replenish moisture levels in the skin. The reason for this is simple: When skin is overly dry, visible signs of aging like fine lines and wrinkle can become more and more prevalent. The German skin care industry recognizes the power of hyaluronic acid to transform and hydrate skin; it absorbs quickly and adds an extra dose of moisture to skin, giving it a more youthful and full appearance with consistent use.

To add this potent ingredient into your own skin care routine, try using a facial serum formulated with a sizable concentration of hyaluronic acid, like the L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives 1.5% Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum. To use, apply two to three drops onto your freshly-cleansed face and neck, taking caution to avoid your eye area.

Another option for introducing hyaluronic acid to your routine is a facial moisturizer formulated with the powerhouse ingredient. Try one that suits your skin type, whether that’s the L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Normal/Oily Skin, L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Normal/Dry Skin, or the L'Oréal Paris Hydra Genius Daily Liquid Care – Extra Dry Skin.

German Skin Care Trend #2: Thorough Cleansing

Women in Germany also understand the importance of getting completely clean at the end of the day. Throughout the day, your skin encounters free radicals and air pollution, like car fumes and smog, which cause oxidization of the skin and can contribute to premature gaining. And this is true whether you live in Germany, the US, or somewhere else! While we can’t always control the airborne pollution and particles we're exposed to on a daily basis, we can make sure to cleanse off all of those impurities at the end of the day. Always remember to go to bed with a clean slate, which includes never falling asleep with your makeup on.

Every evening, take off your makeup with a gentle makeup remover, such as a micellar water. We love the L'Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser – Normal To Dry Skin, L'Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser – Normal To Oily Skin, and the L'Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof – All Skin Types. After you’ve removed your makeup, follow up with another facial cleanser, like the L'Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Cleanser, to make sure you’ve really rid your skin of impurities.

German Skin Care Trend #3: Practice Self-Care

We all need a little R&R every once in a while, and it turns out that women in Germany have been practicing self-care since long before we even knew the term. In Germany, taking time to practice your own beauty routine is seen as more of an at-home spa experience than a daily task or chore, and we love this idea!

After a busy day or week, make sure to carve out some time for yourself: take a hot bath, light some candles, and do a face or hair mask. For your face, try the L'Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Detox & Brighten Face Mask, which contains charcoal and deeply cleanses pores, or the L'Oréal Paris Pure-Clay Clear & Comfort Face Mask, which is formulated with seaweed and helps soothe skin. While you’re at it, do a quick hair mask, like the L'Oréal Paris EverPure Intense Repair Hair Sheet Mask, as well. Whatever skin or hair care products you choose for your next self-care session, the point is that taking care of yourself and enjoying your own skin care routine isn’t indulgent or selfish—it’s part of a healthier, happier lifestyle!

German Skin Care Trend #4: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize

This rule is probably one you’ve heard before, and it’s also one that German women swear by. The importance of keeping your skin moisturized cannot be overstated. In addition to using a nourishing body moisturizer right after you step out of the shower, use a hydrating facial moisturizer every morning and evening. Pick a facial moisturizer formulated with nourishing natural oils that will effectively replenish and protect skin, like the L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Hydra Nutrition Manuka Honey Day Cream, and don’t forget to moisturize your neck and chest too. For those areas, try a multipurpose moisturizer like the L'Oréal Paris Age Perfect Hydra Nutrition Manuka Honey All Over Balm – Face/Neck/Chest/Hands.

Looking for more global-inspired beauty trends and skin care secrets? Next, learn about 7 Icelandic Skin Care Trends.