The Rise of Milk in Beauty: A New Trend in Skincare and Haircare
Got Milk? The Rise of Milk-Infused Beauty Products
In a world where beauty trends often draw inspiration from food, a new ingredient is making waves: milk. While past fads have included “strawberry glaze” and “tomato girl,” the latest obsession is all about the creamy, nourishing properties of milk-inspired products.
From Mikayla Nogueira’s award-winning Drench It face toner to Fenty Beauty’s Butta Drop Hydrating Body Milk, the beauty industry is embracing this unusual ingredient with open arms. Recent launches like Youth to the People’s Adaptogen Supershroom Cleanser and YouTuber Claudia Sulewski’s Ceramide Milky Essence have further fueled the trend, leading to viral sensations like “skin milking.”
Hailey Bieber’s Influence
At the forefront of this milky movement is Hailey Bieber and her billion-dollar beauty brand, Rhode. The brand’s Glazing Milk, a $32 facial essence, has taken social media by storm since its launch in 2023. Packed with nutrients and ceramides, it promises to combat dryness, redness, and dullness while delivering a coveted glassy finish—an aesthetic that has become synonymous with Bieber herself.
Interestingly, despite its name, Glazing Milk doesn’t contain any animal milk. The term “milk” in beauty refers to a silky, thick texture derived from humectants, vitamins, and ceramides. According to Onyedika Achilike, founder of Blue Nomad skin wellness studio, these lightweight, soothing textures are ideal for sensitive skin, providing a calming ritual that enhances the skincare experience.
The Ritual of Self-Care
Achilike believes that the rise of milk-infused products is part of a broader trend toward ritual-driven beauty. Consumers are increasingly seeking tactile, sensory experiences in their self-care routines. “Milk-textured products aren’t just about their ingredients—they’re about creating a gentle, ritualistic moment of care that nourishes both the skin and the senses,” she explains.
Experts also note that while many milk products may not contain lactic acid, those that do can be just as gentle. Dr. Ross Kopelman, a hair transplant surgeon, highlights that milk proteins can act as moisturizers, smoothing hair cuticles and adding shine.
Caution for Sensitive Skin
However, not all skin types may react positively to milk-infused products. Aesthetician Michelle Ventresca warns that excessive use or layering with strong exfoliants can lead to irritation. For those with acne-prone skin, the milky texture may feel heavy or clogging, making patch testing essential.
As the beauty world continues to explore the benefits of milk, one rule remains clear: if you don’t drink milk straight, you might want to think twice before diving into these creamy concoctions.
In a landscape where self-care is paramount, the rise of milk-infused beauty products offers a unique blend of nourishment and indulgence, inviting consumers to embrace a new kind of ritual in their skincare routines. So, the next time you ask, “Got milk?” consider the possibilities it holds for your beauty regimen.
