Following the unprecedented stress of 2020, autonomous sensory meridian response (ASMR) and skincare became two self-care activities many people turned to. During lockdown, psychologists say they were not surprised that ASMR exploded in popularity given its calming benefits. In a single year, internet searches for ASMR rose by 200%. At the same time, data from the NPD Group shows skin care trumping makeup and fragrance, with a 22% year-over-year growth in 2020.
Now imagine what happens when these two worlds collide? ASMR skin care has been slowly gaining attention as the next foray into holistic wellness. But is it worth a try?
What is ASMR Skin Care?
Since the term ASMR was first coined in 2007, it has slowly gained recognition for its calming benefits that include better sleep and a tingly feeling. While ASMR is commonly triggered by visual or aural stimulation, it can also be triggered by touch. Think of all the times you felt calm after having your hair brushed or back scratched.
ASMR skin care seeks to trigger a soothing “brain massage” using both aural and physical triggers. Specifically, it involves the use of a sonic facial cleansing device. This is because the buzzing sound and pulsating mode can stimulate the brain.
How Does it Work?
ASMR skin care is said to address proper skin cleansing and stress-related skin issues. The sounds and sensations themselves aren’t expected to promote smooth glowing skin. Instead, they are added benefits that soothe the mind while the sonic cleansing brush deep cleans your skin. This makes it a well-rounded routine that relieves inside and out.
Not cleaning your face properly can result in a build-up of sebum, bacteria, makeup, and pollution. All of which can irritate and break out your skin. Meanwhile, feeling stressed, especially chronically, can even cause skin conditions that may even require medication. Some stress-related skin conditions are acne, premature aging, eczema, and psoriasis.
What You Need to DIY at Home
A Gentle Non-Exfoliating Cleanser
Because a cleansing brush already doubles as a physical exfoliant, it’s important not to overdo it with a strong cleanser. Instead, use a calming gel cleanser that is formulated as skin care for sensitive skin types. This ensures that it is free from irritants or chemicals that may be drying or harsh. A soap-free formula can also protect your skin’s natural barrier from being too stripped. When using your cleanser, apply a dime-sized amount on the brush as this will clean your skin thoroughly while also providing a smooth surface for the device.
A Cleansing Device with the Appropriate Brush Head
Often, the brush head (more than the cleansing device model) is what matters. To go full ASMR mode, you can get a sonic cleansing device. Note that you can use traditional brush heads, which are made from ultrasoft nylon to remove dead skin. These must be washed after every use and need to be replaced after a few months. A nylon brush head can be gentle enough for sensitive skin but may need to be used on a higher setting for deeper cleansing. An exfoliating brush head is made of denser bristles and can improve blood circulation. However, the above aren’t advisable for those with broken skin since they can be quite powerful. Overall, a silicone head brush will be a gentler and more convenient option. While you can’t swap out brush attachments, their non-porous surface means they’re easy to clean and don’t need replacing.
Should You Try ASMR Skin Care?
Experimenting with new routines can improve your skin. However, it’s important to do your research and start slowly. If you plan to try ASMR skin care, don’t do it more than twice a week and be gentle. If done too often and incorrectly, these cleansing brushes could be harmful. For truly healthy skin, don’t forget to get enough sleep, drink eight glasses of water a day, and use a daily mineral sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. If in doubt, don’t be afraid to ask your dermatologist or esthetician—they may just be ASMR fans, too. In fact, they may just recommend ASMR for its calming benefits, which can totally help reduce the effects of stress on your skin.
