There are many skincare routines that have become trends since the rise of social media – some more unconventional than others. You may have heard of slugging, which suggests slathering your face in petroleum jelly before falling asleep. While we don’t recommend that – waking up to a greasy pillowcase is no fun, and will leave you with lots of stagnant dirt on your skin – a new one has gained popularity and piqued our interest: skin flooding. So, let’s take a closer look: What is skin flooding? Who is it for? Should I do it? How can I do it?
What is skin flooding?
Skin flooding refers to adding multiple lightweight layers of extremely hydrating skincare products. In this process, the skin is “flooded” with hydration. One of the most referenced ingredients is hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is known to be very hydrating when combined with water, and is commonly featured in serums and face creams. A French Girl favorite, Crème Lumière, is created with Hyaluronic Acid as the key ingredient, which is tied in with our powerful Hyaluronic-7 blend.
Who is it for? Should I do it?
Skin flooding, while suitable for all skin types, is most recommended for individuals struggling with dry or dehydrated skin. Dermatologists have suggested the routine may be good for:
Menopausal skin, which is often known for excessive dryness
Pre-makeup prep for glowy looks
Combination and dry skin types which are experiencing dry patches, tightness, itchiness, or just dryness in general
Alternatively, if your skin's hydration levels are already good but you want to achieve that glazed, extremely hydrated and plump, almost glass-like skin appearance, it would definitely be a helpful routine to implement 1 or 2 nights a week. Ultimately, skincare and skin routines are a highly personal choice and experience. Whether you should partake or not depends on your skin type, skincare goals and needs, and commitment level to a daily routine.
How can I do it?
Now that you know what skin flooding is, and have the tools to decide if it is a good routine for you to try out or implement into your skincare practice, we’ve put together a French Girl skin flooding routine with detailed instructions on every step. The majority of this routine is also available in travel sizes (the only exceptions are Neroli Floral Mist and Crème Lumière), perfect for testing out the products.
The first essential step in any skincare routine is getting your skin thoroughly cleansed and prepped for products. Layering products on skin that hasn’t been washed is often worse than not doing anything at all, because it will cause oil buildup and dirt to be trapped underneath. Très mal! That being said, since skin flooding focuses on hydration, we have to recommend our Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Facial Wash. With a milky texture and combination of hydrating ingredients, it’ll cleanse without harming the skin’s healthy, natural barrier.
This refreshing facial toner will balance your skin’s pH levels and promote calmness with its anti-inflammatory properties. It also adds hydration, which makes it perfect for a skin flooding routine. To use, simply close eyes and mist all over the face.
If using this as a pre-makeup routine, wait about 2 minutes before the next step, so skin has time to absorb. If using this as a nighttime routine, it is suitable to apply serum immediately (while skin is still damp) to maximize hydration power.
Pétale De Rose Peptide Serum is a French Girl employee favorite and skincare powerhouse. Peptides help the skin retain moisture, reduce inflammation, and increase collagen production, making this serum a crucial step in the skin flooding routine which will help soften the skin and increase radiance. To use, simply squeeze 3-4 drops to your fingertips, rub together, and gently press into the skin on the face, neck, and décollaté.
Our Neroli Eye Serum is great if you are experiencing dryness or a lack of elasticity in the skin around your eyes. While not a typical inclusion for skin flooding routines, at French Girl we believe that eye serums are essential for banishing wrinkles and dark circles, and maintaining a hydrated appearance throughout the whole face.
Our Neroli Eye Serum features a convenient rollerball applicator, and a unique blend of oils for repair, hydration, brightening, and skin renewal. To use, roll once under and around the eyes and softly pat in with your finger. Avoid rubbing, which can tug at and damage the sensitive skin around the eyes.
