9 Skincare Mistakes You Are Probably Making

As mentioned in our previous blog post, identifying your skin type is a crucial first step to achieving optimal skin health and developing a skincare routine tailored to your specific needs.

People often make skincare mistakes by skipping this basic step. As a result, they adopt habits or use products that are unsuitable for their skin type. To help you achieve healthier skin, we’ve identified the top 9 skincare mistakes you may be making - and how to avoid them!

1. Using the Wrong Skincare Products

Using the wrong skincare products, such as a harsh cleanser, can damage your skin’s barrier or cause irritation. This is a common mistake among teens with acne, who often use strong cleansers that exacerbate the problem.

Effective skincare starts with gentle cleansing, especially for those wearing makeup. Make sure to remove all makeup before going to bed. For most people, cleansing once a day is enough to maintain freshness, but if you have oily skin, consider cleansing twice daily with a mild product.

2. Not Wearing Sunscreen Daily

Failing to wear sunscreen daily is one of the most common skincare mistakes. Sun damage is a leading cause of skin ageing, as UV rays penetrate the skin, causing cellular photo-ageing and breaking down collagen (Bonté, F. et al., 2019).

To protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every few hours, especially if you’re outdoors.

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still cause harm. Make sunscreen a daily habit, regardless of the weather.

3. Over-Exfoliation

Exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells and improving your skin’s texture, making it more receptive to skincare products. However, over-exfoliating -particularly with harsh scrubs or doing it too frequently - can cause redness, irritation, and even micro-tears in the skin.

Stick to exfoliating 2-3 times per week, using gentle exfoliants suitable for your skin type to maintain a healthy glow without compromising your skin’s natural barrier.

4. Sleeping with Make-Up On

No matter how tired you are, it’s essential to remove your make-up before bed. Sleeping with make-up on can clog pores, lead to acne, and prevent your skin from absorbing beneficial skincare products.

Establish a nightly skincare routine that starts with thoroughly cleansing away make-up and impurities.

5. Applying Skincare Products in the Wrong Order

Applying skincare products in the correct order is critical for optimal absorption. As a general rule, apply products from lightest to heaviest consistency. This ensures that each layer is properly absorbed by your skin.

If you’re unsure about the right order, consult with a skincare professional.

6. Neglecting Your Neck and Chest

The neck and chest- often referred to as the ‘décolletage’—are frequently overlooked in skincare routines, but they are just as prone to sun damage and ageing as your face. Extend your skincare routine to cover these areas, including cleansing, moisturising, and applying sunscreen.

Don’t forget the back of your neck and your hands, as they are exposed to the sun and show signs of ageing if neglected.

7. Using Too Many Products from Different Brands at Once

Mixing too many products from different brands can overwhelm your skin. Skincare products are formulated to work synergistically when used together, particularly those from the same brand.

According to board-certified dermatologist Yoram Harth, MD, “Products made by the same brand are more likely to complement each other than products from different brands.” Stick to one brand’s range for a more cohesive and effective skincare routine.

8. Skipping Moisturiser If You Have Acne

If you have acne-prone skin, skipping moisturiser is a common mistake. Acne treatments often contain ingredients like benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, which dry out the skin. When the skin becomes dry, it produces excess oil, which can lead to more breakouts.

Opt for an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturiser to lock in hydration without clogging your pores.

9. Picking at Pimples and Skin

While it’s tempting to pop pimples, doing so can cause more harm than good. Improper popping can push bacteria deeper into the skin, increasing inflammation and the risk of permanent scarring.

If you struggle with breakouts, speak to a dermatologist who can use a safe and sterile technique to treat them.

To Sum It Up!

Avoiding these common skincare mistakes can significantly enhance both the appearance and health of your skin.

Small adjustments to your daily routine can lead to clearer, balanced, and glowing skin. And remember, staying well-hydrated is crucial for maintaining a radiant complexion!

If you found this guide helpful, explore our other articles on zinc and skin and acne myths unmasked. Also have a look at these products that can be included in your routine to support skin health...

References:

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Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, et al. “Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74:945-73.