Entry 1: The Middle Ages - Simple Times, Simple Methods

Date: 14th Century

Today, I watched as my family prepared for our rare bathing ritual. Water is precious and bathing is infrequent. People fear that water might carry diseases, so we stick to simple cleansing methods. I noticed my mother rubbing her face with a rough cloth, trying to wipe away the day's grime.

For skincare, we rely on nature's gifts. Rose water, made from our garden roses, is a favourite. Its fragrance is delightful, and it refreshes the skin. Olive oil and animal fats are used to keep our skin from drying out, especially during the harsh winters. Soap is a luxury only the wealthy can afford, so we manage with what we have.

Entry 2: The Renaissance - A New Era of Cleanliness

Date: 16th Century

Life is changing with the Renaissance! There’s a renewed interest in cleanliness, and public baths are becoming more common, although not everyone can access them. Bathing more often feels refreshing and brings a sense of pride in cleanliness.

We've started making our own skincare treatments at home. I tried a face mask today made from egg whites and lemon juice, hoping it will brighten my complexion. Soap is now more affordable, thanks to improved production techniques. It’s still made from fats and alkaline substances but is much gentler on the skin.

Entry 3: The 18th and 19th Centuries - The Dawn of Modern Skincare

Date: 1807

The Industrial Revolution is transforming our lives, including how we care for our skin. Soap is no longer a luxury; it’s mass-produced and available to everyone. I bought a bar of Pears' Soap today, known for its mildness and pleasant scent.

Commercial skincare products are emerging. Cold creams are all the rage, blending water and fats to cleanse and moisturize the skin. Science is playing a significant role in our skincare routines, with ingredients like glycerine and lanolin making products more effective and gentle.

Entry 4: The Early 20th Century - Skincare Becomes an Industry

Date: 1950s

Post-war prosperity has brought a boom in skincare products. Brands like Nivea and Pond’s are household names now, offering a variety of creams and lotions. There’s a growing focus on specialized products targeting acne, aging, and sun protection. I’ve started using a face cream with salicylic acid to keep my skin clear and prevent breakouts.

The influence of media is undeniable. Beauty advertisements featuring glamorous celebrities are everywhere, shaping our beauty ideals and routines. I’ve adopted a systematic skincare routine inspired by these beauty icons, ensuring my skin stays healthy and youthful.

Entry 5: The Late 20th Century to Early 21st Century - A Skincare Revolution

Date: 2000s

Technological advancements have revolutionized skincare. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid and peptides are transforming our routines, offering targeted benefits such as hydration and anti-aging. I’ve incorporated these into my daily regimen, noticing significant improvements in my skin’s texture and appearance.

There’s a significant shift towards organic and natural skincare products, driven by concerns over synthetic chemicals. I’m choosing products with sustainably sourced, natural ingredients, free from harmful substances. Personalization is key now; I can customize my skincare regimen based on my skin type and concerns.

Entry 6: Today - Back to Basics with Modern Wisdom

Date: 2024

Reflecting on the journey of skincare from the Middle Ages to today, I see how much we’ve evolved while staying true to some fundamental principles. Cleansing, moisturizing, and protection are the cornerstones of healthy skin.

Cleansing remains essential. Modern cleansers effectively remove impurities without stripping my skin of natural oils. Soap, once a luxury, is now a mild, everyday necessity. Moisturization has always been crucial; today, advanced moisturizers cater to different skin needs, whether it's a simple olive oil application or a high-tech hyaluronic acid serum.

One significant advancement is sun protection. Sunscreen is now an essential part of my daily routine, preventing sun damage and skin cancer, something historical skincare did not address.

The trend of "skinimalism" is refreshing, focusing on fewer, more effective products. I’ve simplified my routine to include only essential steps: cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. Quality over quantity is my new mantra.

As I look to the future, I’m excited about the continued innovations in skincare. However, I’ll always appreciate the simplicity of basic treatments, knowing that cleanliness, hydration, and protection are timeless principles of effective skincare.