Having healthy and glowing skin is a goal that many of us strive to achieve. However, many of us make common skin care mistakes that can harm our skin and prevent us from achieving our skin care goals.
From using lemon juice as a toner to scrubbing your face with sandpaper, people will try just about anything in the name of a clear complexion. But trust me, these attempts at DIY skincare can be more harmful than helpful.
So, let’s take a deep dive into the most common skincare mistakes people make, and why you should avoid them like the plague.
Over-Cleansing
One of the most common skin care mistakes people make is over-cleansing their skin. Cleansing is an important part of any skin care routine, but over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness and irritation. It’s important to cleanse your skin twice a day, but avoid cleansing more than that, as it can harm your skin.
Not Wearing Sunscreen
I know, I know, sunscreen can be a pain. It’s greasy, it’s smelly, and it can be expensive. But skipping it altogether can lead to some serious consequences, like sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer.
Think of it this way, if you wouldn’t go outside in the snow without a coat, why would you go outside without sunscreen? Plus, there are so many great options out there now that there’s really no excuse. Just find one that works for you, and make it a part of your daily routine.
Sleeping with Makeup On
We’ve all had those nights where we’re too tired to go through our entire skincare routine and just want to crawl into bed. But leaving your makeup on overnight is a big no-no. Not only can it clog your pores and lead to breakouts, but it can also cause premature aging and damage to your skin.
Think of it like sleeping with your shoes on, it’s uncomfortable, and your feet won’t be happy in the morning. Make sure to always remove your makeup before bed, and your skin will thank you.
Read more about tips on how to squeeze in self-care activities during a busy week.
Not Moisturizing
Not moisturizing your skin is another common skin care mistake that people make. Moisturizing is important, as it helps keep your skin hydrated and soft. Not moisturizing can lead to dryness and fine lines, so it’s important to make sure to moisturize your skin every day.
Not Exfoliating
Not exfoliating your skin is another common skin care mistake that people make. Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells, which can make your skin look dull and clog your pores. Regular exfoliation can help brighten your skin and improve the effectiveness of your other skin care products.
Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliating is great for removing dead skin cells and keeping your skin smooth and glowing. But overdoing it can do more harm than good. Using abrasive scrubs or exfoliants too frequently can strip your skin of its natural oils and leave it dry and irritated.
Think of your skin like a delicate little flower, you wouldn’t water it too much or too little, and you wouldn’t pluck all its petals off, would you? Find a gentle exfoliator that works for your skin type, and stick to using it no more than twice a week.
Using Too Many Products
We’ve all been there, standing in front of the skincare aisle at the drugstore, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to buy. So, we end up buying a bunch of different products in the hopes that one of them will magically fix all our skin woes.
But here’s the thing, using too many products can actually do more harm than good. Mixing and matching different ingredients can lead to irritation and breakouts, and layering too many products can prevent them from properly absorbing into your skin.
Think of it like cooking a meal, too many spices can ruin the dish, and adding too many products can ruin your skin. Stick to a simple routine of cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, and add in additional products only as needed.
Picking at Your Skin
I get it, there’s something so satisfying about popping a pimple or picking at a scab. But resist the urge! Picking at your skin can cause scarring, infection, and even spread bacteria to other parts of your face.
If you have a pimple, spot treat it with a targeted treatment, and let it run its course.
Ignoring Your Neck and Chest
Your face may get all the attention, but don’t forget about your neck and chest. These areas are just as prone to sun damage and aging as your face, and should be treated with the same care and attention.
Think of it like wearing a turtleneck to the beach, it’s just not a good look. Make sure to extend your skincare routine down to your neck and chest, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen to these areas as well.
Using Hot Water
Hot showers and baths may feel great, but they can be damaging to your skin. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. This can lead to itching, flaking, and even eczema.
Stick to lukewarm water when washing your face and body, and your skin will be much happier.
Not Changing Your Pillowcase
Your pillowcase may seem harmless, but it can actually be a breeding ground for bacteria and oil. If you’re not changing your pillowcase regularly, all that gunk can transfer to your face, leading to breakouts and congestion.
Make sure to change your pillowcase at least once a week, and consider using a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction and prevent wrinkles.
Using Products Meant for Someone Else
Just because a product works wonders for your friend or favorite influencer, doesn’t mean it will work for you. Everyone’s skin is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Stick to products that are formulated for your specific skin type and concerns, and don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for you.
Avoiding these common skin care mistakes can help you achieve healthy, glowing skin. It’s important to make sure to cleanse, moisturize, and protect your skin, and to avoid over-cleansing, sleeping with makeup on, and neglecting other important steps in your skin care routine. By following these tips, you can help keep your skin looking its best.
