'Skintermittent Fasting' Vs 'Skin Flooding' - What To Choose For Your Skin Type

The skincare world is constantly buzzing with new trends and techniques, promising radiant, youthful complexions. Two methods currently making waves are 'skintermittent fasting' and 'skin flooding,' but they offer vastly different approaches to healthy skin.

Skintermittent Fasting

Think of skintermittent fasting as giving your skin a break. This method involves taking periodic "rests" from active skincare, allowing your skin's natural barrier to recover and rebalance.

Dr B Lakshmi Divya, Co-founder and Consultant Dermatologist, Dermiq adds, "This concept has gained traction among beauty influencers and bloggers. Its effectiveness varies based on individual skin needs, and simplifying skincare routines resonates with many. Skintermittent fasting offers a minimalist approach that appeals to those overwhelmed by the abundance of skincare products."

She further adds, "To engage in skintermittent fasting, it's essential to halt the usage of all your skincare products for a few weeks. For instance, during this period, set aside your serums, toners, and creams, and instead, cleanse your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser. Consider using aloe vera gel or a commercially available natural moisturizer."

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What are the benefits of skintermittent fasting:

Reduced irritation: By minimising potential allergens and irritants, you can calm down redness, sensitivity, and breakouts.

Strengthened skin barrier: Taking breaks allows your skin's natural oils and moisture to replenish, potentially improving its resilience.

Simplified routine: Less can be more! Skintermittent fasting can save you time and money which you generally take to layer and add several different products.

Skin Flooding

Skin flooding, on the other hand, takes the opposite approach. This method temporarily overloads your skin with hydration to plump it up and boost its moisture levels. Think of it like giving your skin a deep-conditioning treatment.

"To practice skin flooding, drench your skin in hyaluronic acid or glycerin-based humectants right after cleansing to ensure the skin is still damp before sealing with moisturiser. This allows the humectant to hold onto the moisture. Another approach could be to use a hydrating toner or mist, followed by a humectant serum and moisturiser," adds Dr Divya.

What are the benefits of skin flooding:

Instant plumpness: Dehydrated skin appears visibly plumper and smoother with increased hydration.

Reduced fine lines: Plumped skin can temporarily minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Glowing complexion: The extra hydration can give your skin a dewy, radiant look.

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Who should adopt this?

When it comes to skintermittent fasting, Dr Divya adds, "Skintermittent fasting caters to several specific groups, including individuals with sensitive skin, those prone to acne, and those following an intensive skincare routine. For those with sensitive skin prone to redness, irritation, or allergies, skintermittent fasting proves to be an effective strategy in minimizing the risk of aggravating these issues."

For skin flooding, she adds "One should not go overboard with heavier products, as it could lead to breakouts. Additionally, it's crucial to avoid flooding with actives such as retinoids, AHAs, and BHAs, as the result could be over-irritated and inflamed skin, with lasting dry patches. To avoid clogging pores or overstimulating sebum production, one may opt for a non-occlusive emollient moisturiser," adds Dr Divya.

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While both of these have different benefits, it is important to see an expert before trying them.