When it comes to trends, beauty has always leaned towards excess. Think about it— layers of makeup, shelves full of skincare products, or the endless pursuit of that perfect hairdo, more has usually been more. But recently, a countertrend has emerged, quietly turning heads with its minimalist vibe: underconsumption core. It’s a concept that might sound a little highbrow, but at its heart, it’s a simple, refreshing take on how we approach beauty.
What is ‘Underconsumption Core’?
Underconsumption core is a movement rooted in the idea of doing less and consuming less, particularly in the context of beauty and fashion. It’s about stripping back the excess and focusing on the essentials—only using what you genuinely need. Imagine swapping your 10-step skincare routine for just three carefully chosen products, or embracing your natural hair texture instead of spending hours taming it with heat tools and styling products. That’s underconsumption core in action.
It’s a stark contrast to the beauty standards we’ve been bombarded with for years. Those Instagram-perfect faces, complete with contouring, false lashes, and the works, are giving way to a more laid-back, realistic vibe.
Why It’s Trending?
You might be wondering, why now? Why is this minimalist approach gaining traction in a world that’s historically obsessed with opulence? The pandemic played a huge role in this shift. When we were all stuck at home, with nowhere to go and no one to impress, many of us started questioning why we were doing so much to maintain our appearance. It was exhausting, not to mention expensive.
But it’s not just about pandemic fatigue. There’s a growing awareness of the environmental impact of our consumption habits. Beauty products come with a lot of packaging, and the industry’s carbon footprint is no small thing. Underconsumption core taps into this eco-conscious mindset by encouraging us to buy less and use what we already have. It’s a win-win, you save money, reduce waste, and still look fabulous.
My Journey Into Underconsumption Core
I’ll admit, when I first heard about underconsumption core, I was sceptical. I’ve always loved experimenting with beauty products, and the idea of cutting back felt a little… boring. But I decided to give it a try.
I started with my skincare routine, which was getting out of hand. I had so many serums, creams, and masks that I couldn’t even keep track of what they were supposed to do. So, I pared it down to just three essentials: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating serum, and a good moisturizer.
Next up was my makeup bag. I ditched the heavy foundation and the contour kit that I rarely used anyway, opting instead for a tinted moisturizer and a lip and cheek tint. And the best part was I was saving time and feeling less pressured to keep up with an unattainable standard.
Why You Should Give It a Try
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to consume and keep up with the latest trends, underconsumption core might be just what you need. It’s about loving what you already have and finding beauty in simplicity. You don’t have to go cold turkey and ditch all your products overnight. Start small, like I did, and see how it feels.
You might be surprised at how liberating it is to let go of the excess. It’s not about depriving yourself—it’s about making more mindful choices and finding contentment with less.
