Skincare can be overwhelming, and it's easy to make mistakes, even if you’re following what seems like the right advice. Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or a beginner, avoiding these common errors will help you keep your skin looking its best. Here are the top eight skincare mistakes people make—and how to fix them.
1. Skipping sunscreen or only using it in summer
One of the biggest skincare myths is that sunscreen is only necessary in summer or when you’re planning to spend the day at the beach. Sun damage is cumulative, meaning that even on cloudy or cool days, harmful UVA and UVB rays are still affecting your skin. UVA rays, in particular, are responsible for premature ageing and can penetrate through clouds and glass, putting your skin at risk year-round.
The fix: Make sunscreen a daily habit, like brushing your teeth. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on all exposed areas—even if you’re just stepping out for a short time. Choose a formula that suits your skin type and layer it over your moisturiser in the morning.
2. Over-exfoliating your skin
Exfoliation is a key step in removing dead skin cells and revealing fresh skin underneath, but too much of a good thing can lead to trouble. Over-exfoliating can strip away your skin’s natural barrier, causing irritation, sensitivity, and breakouts.
The fix: Less is more when it comes to exfoliating. Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week and opt for a gentle chemical exfoliant, such as lactic acid or salicylic acid. Keep an eye on how your skin responds—if it starts to feel dry, tight, or red, scale back.
3. Not moisturising oily or acne-prone skin
People with oily or acne-prone skin often skip moisturiser, thinking it will make their skin even oilier or clog pores. However, this approach can backfire, as your skin compensates for the lack of moisture by producing more oil, leading to an even greasier complexion.
The fix: Use a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser that’s specifically designed for oily or acne-prone skin. Ingredients like apricot kernel oil and jojoba oil hydrate the skin, while helping to balance sebum production.
4. Using the wrong products for your skin type
You wouldn’t use a shampoo for curly hair on straight hair, would you? The same principle applies to skincare. Using products that aren’t formulated for your skin type can cause dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity. For example, using a rich, creamy cleanser on oily skin can lead to clogged pores, while a harsh gel cleanser on dry skin can cause flaking.
The fix: Identify your skin type—whether it’s dry, oily, combination, or sensitive—and choose products that match your needs. If you’re unsure, consult a dermatologist or a skincare expert for advice on what’s best for your skin.
5. Sleeping in makeup
We’ve all been guilty of this one at some point, but it’s one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Sleeping in makeup not only clogs pores and traps dirt and bacteria but also disrupts your skin’s natural overnight repair process, leading to breakouts, dullness, and premature ageing.
The fix: No matter how tired you are, always take a few minutes to remove your makeup before bed. Use a gentle makeup remover followed by a hydrating cleanser. If you wear heavy or waterproof makeup, consider using a double-cleansing method to ensure every trace is gone.
6. Not layering products correctly
Applying skincare products in the wrong order can make them less effective or even cause irritation. For instance, applying a thick moisturiser before a serum can block the serum from penetrating your skin, reducing its benefits.
The fix: Follow this basic rule: start with the thinnest, most lightweight products and work your way up to the thickest. After cleansing, apply toner (if using), then serum, eye cream, and finally moisturiser. If you’re using active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids, apply them after cleansing and toning but before your moisturiser.
7. Neglecting your neck and hands
The neck and hands are often overlooked in skincare routines, but they are among the first areas to show signs of ageing, such as sagging, wrinkles, and pigmentation. Ignoring these areas means they can age faster than your face, creating an uneven appearance.
The fix: Extend your skincare routine to include your neck and hands. Apply the same serums, moisturisers, and sunscreen you use on your face to these areas as well. Use an SPF hand cream during the day to protect against sunspots and loss of elasticity.
8. Using hot water to cleanse your face
Many people use hot water to cleanse their face, thinking it will help open up the pores and make products more effective. However, hot water strips away your skin’s natural oils and can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation. It also weakens the skin barrier, making your skin more prone to environmental damage.
The fix: Always use lukewarm water when washing your face. It’s effective enough to cleanse without stripping the skin. After washing, pat your skin dry with a clean towel, and immediately follow up with your toner or serum to lock in moisture.
By avoiding these common skincare mistakes, you’ll be setting your skin up for success. Consistency and a tailored approach are key to maintaining a healthy, radiant complexion, no matter your age or skin type. So, keep these tips in mind, and your skin will thank you for it!