Lifestyle & Wellness
Now that 2018 is behind us, we’re excited to see which spa and wellness trends will define 2019. To get a feel for what’s coming, we talked with Jessica Timberlake. She’s on the Board of Directors for the International Spa Association (ISPA), serves as the Canadian Ambassador for Global Wellness Day, and is Eminence Organics’ Public Relations Manager. Jessica recently attended the Global Wellness Summit and spoke with top beauty editors from Well+Good, the Today Show and Condé Nast about the newest wellness ideas. If you’re a spa professional or owner, read Jessica’s forecasts to see what to watch for this year.
Wellness Trend: Digital Detox
What is one major concept you see moving from the spa into the home?
Spas are leading the push for a “digital detox” — taking intentional time away from phones and other devices for more than an hour or two. Disconnecting from technology gives people more time for themselves. At home, that may mean setting “no phone” hours and using the time for self-care like meditation or a relaxing bath. With more smart home tools handling lighting and sleep routines, you might even replace your phone alarm with automated systems designed to support better sleep.
Skin Care Predictions: Blue Light Protection
What skin concerns are people most focused on?
After last year’s interest in “forest bathing” — spending time in nature to escape city pollution, crowds and harsh sun — people are still focused on protecting skin from pollution and UV damage. The digital detox trend links to skin care too. Blue light from computers, phones and tablets can break down collagen and elastin, possibly speeding visible signs of aging. Expect to see products advertised with “blue light protection” as a response to this concern.
Ingredient Buzz: Mushrooms & Mineral Sunscreen
Which ingredients are likely to trend next year?
Since forest bathing was a big wellness theme in 2018, look for more forest-sourced ingredients, harvested sustainably. Mushrooms will be popular in skin care — different types offer real benefits, and snow mushroom in particular is praised as a powerful humectant. Tree-based ingredients like birch water and maple water will also rise in use; when harvested responsibly, they provide amino acids, antioxidants and nutrients for the skin. Also watch for more all-mineral sunscreens. Mineral sunscreens use physical blockers to shield skin from UV rays and will be in demand when sunny weather hits.
Trendspotting: Embracing Aging
What meaningful change do you see growing in skin care?
Echoing Allure editor-in-chief Michelle Lee, it’s time to retire the phrase “anti-aging.” That shift from a major magazine is a big step for what spas and skin care brands have been working toward: encouraging people of all ages to embrace natural beauty, health and wellness. It’s not about “looking good for your age”; it’s about “looking good because you feel good.” Aging isn’t something to fight — we can’t stop it — but we can support healthy skin over time with effective natural and organic ingredients.
If you work in the spa industry, what trends will you and your business adopt this year? Connect with us in the comments or on social media, and visit our website to learn more about partnering with Eminence Organics.