While the beauty industry in Kenya is evolving and embracing international trends, some habits and misconceptions still persist. With the world offering a wealth of beauty knowledge, it’s time for Kenyans to refresh their routines and learn from cultures like Korea, France, and India. As per the EXprimi Skincare Kenya research, Here are six beauty mistakes commonly made in Kenya and how to correct them:
- Neglecting SPF
In Kenya, SPF is often seen as optional rather than a necessity. While we know it protects our skin from harmful sun exposure, many people still skip sunscreen in their daily routines. It's common to find Kenyan foundations and concealers, especially drugstore brands, lacking SPF. However, sun protection is a must for healthy skin.
Countries like South Korea and France prioritize SPF, not just in the summer but year-round, as a crucial part of skin care. Including SPF in your routine helps prevent premature aging, sun damage, and skin cancer. At Exprimi Beauty, you can find products with SPF, from moisturizers to lip balms, to ensure your skin is always protected.
- Avoiding Bold Makeup
Kenyan beauty culture often favors a “natural” look, with less emphasis on bold, dramatic makeup. However, this can lead to missed opportunities for creativity. In regions like the Caribbean, Middle East or India, bold makeup looks, complete with false lashes, smoky eyes, and vibrant colors, are celebrated as expressions of individuality and beauty.
There’s no need to fear dramatic makeup. Makeup is about having fun and embracing self-expression. Whether you prefer subtle looks or something more glamorous, don’t be afraid to explore different styles that make you feel confident and beautiful.
- Skipping Moisturizer
Moisturizing should be a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine, but it's often overlooked. Many Kenyans skip this vital step, leading to dry, dull skin. Moisturizer helps lock in hydration, keeps your skin barrier healthy, and promotes a radiant complexion.
In Korean beauty, glowing, dewy skin is a coveted trait. Regular moisturizing, coupled with hydrating mists and masks, is key to maintaining luminous skin. Ensure you moisturize both morning and night, and don’t be afraid to layer hydration as needed, especially in dry climates.
- Overdoing Face Masks
While face masks are great for pampering your skin, overuse or choosing the wrong products can do more harm than good. Some Kenyans tend to splurge on masks without paying attention to their skin’s needs or researching product ingredients.
Before using a mask, take time to understand your skin type and specific concerns. Opt for masks with targeted benefits, like hydration, anti-aging, or clarifying, and always check reviews or recommendations. Balance is key, and sometimes less is more when it comes to masking.
- Minimalist Skincare Routines
Many Kenyans stick to a simple skincare routine: cleanse, moisturize, and go. While simplicity is fine, this often means missing out on beneficial steps that could improve skin health, such as toning, exfoliating, or applying serums.
In Korean beauty, multi-step routines (up to 10 steps or more) are common and focus on layering products for maximum benefit. You don’t need to adopt an extensive regimen, but adding steps like exfoliation or a serum can enhance your routine and deliver better results. The key is consistency and choosing products that suit your skin's needs.
- Sticking to One Approach
Many Kenyan beauty routines rely on tried-and-true methods or popular YouTube recommendations without considering personal skin concerns or goals. While following trends is fun, it’s important to tailor your routine to what works best for you.
Each person’s skin is unique, so it’s essential to experiment and find the products and techniques that suit your individual needs. Whether you follow a long routine or prefer a few essential steps, the goal is healthy, radiant skin.
By learning from global beauty traditions and being open to change, Kenyans can elevate their beauty routines. Whether it’s using SPF daily or experimenting with bold makeup looks, a few simple changes can make a significant difference.
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