The One Minimal Skin Care Practice This Derm Wishes More People Were Doing 

When we asked board-certified dermatologist Whitney Bowe, M.D., what skin care practices she wishes more people were paying attention to over on the mindbodygreen podcast, her answer was refreshingly straightforward: "Honestly, just a simple massage." According to Bowe, even a minute-long massage can work wonders in your skin care routine. Below, she explains why (and how to do it right). 

Bowe also notes that regular facial massage is a form of self-care—for some, it can help manage stress and trigger a relaxation response (since stress can deplete your collagen levels and contribute to dullness and fine lines, it's a worthwhile add to your skin care routine). Research has even shown that psychological stress can translate into physical inflammation on the skin2 (be it sensitivity, irritation, or acne). "You can actually impact the inflammation in your skin just by taking a few moments to breathe." Perhaps start a skin care gratitude practice, while you're at it, for a touch of self-love. 

Below, Bowe's simple massage to try out:

According to this derm, the best skin care practice to add to your routine doesn't involve products at all—just a little more attention and mindfulness. There's a reason facial massage techniques have spanned centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine: A mere glide with your fingertips can help you glow from the inside out.