9 Skin Care Mistakes You Could Be Making — And What To Do Instead
A solid skincare routine is a fantastic feat for newbies and skincare enthusiasts, but even the most experienced skin care users make mistakes here and there. Finding the right products and catering to your skin’s concerns and needs can be tricky. However, there are some common skincare mistakes to avoid, regardless of skin type or concerns.
From using too much hot water to trying out too many products, we do numerous things daily that may not seem harmful but can be. If you’re struggling with your skin, I’m sharing skin care mistakes that could contribute to your skin woes. Ahead, check out the ten most common skincare mistakes you might be making — and what you should do instead.
1. Switching Products Too Often
Change can be good, but it’s best to stick to a routine that includes the same products for a while. All products will take time to change your skin, and you will only see results if you give the products enough time to be effective. Keep using your products for at least six weeks before making a swap or adding something new to the rotation.
2. Using Hot Water On Your Skin
You may like taking long, steaming showers — let’s be honest, they feel great. But understanding the effect hot water could have on your skin might make you inclined to turn the temperature down a notch. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness.
Next time you hop in the shower or wash your face, opt for lukewarm water or shorten the time you spend standing under the water. Afterward, you’ll want to apply Moisturizer to damp skin to help lock in moisture. Here’s another thing no one talks about – unless you have visible dirt or lots of oil or sweat all over your body, you don’t HAVE to soap up your arms and legs every time you shower. Yes, it’s true. We have fewer oil glands on our arms and legs, and too much cleanser dries out the skin, so remember that the next time you shower!
3. Sleeping In Your Makeup
So, you’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s worth repeating: Going to sleep with your makeup on is one of the worst things you can do for your skin. Dirt, oil, and bacteria can build up overnight on your face leading to clogged pores and, eventually, breakouts.
If you can’t make it to a shower or sink to wash your face, stash a bottle of micellar cleansing water on your nightstand for easy access so you never have an excuse to close your eyes without removing your makeup. The type A in me has to say this, however…I always say rinse your skin, even AFTER using micellar water (I don’t care WHAT the label says) – but I know it’s not always going to happen, especially if you are wrecked. Don’t make it a habit, ok?
4. You’re Over Exfoliating
Whether from the overuse of an actual facial scrub or too many face acids, too much is not a good thing. While it’s essential to exfoliate your skin and remove dead skin cells and buildup, exfoliating too often can irritate and rip up your skin barrier. Rather than exfoliating every day, limit this step in your skincare routine to up to three times a week, or switch to a gentle option until your skin becomes accustomed to it.
5. Touching Your Face
With the number of objects you touch during one day (cell phones are major germ culprits), the amount of dirt transferred to your fingers does add up. That’s why it’s essential to avoid touching, rubbing, or resting your hands on your face when you can. You don’t want to transfer that dirt to your face since it can lead to breakouts and other skin care concerns.
6. Skipping Sunscreen
It would be best if you didn’t wait until you’re sitting poolside on a bright sunny day to slather on SPF. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, you can get burned even on cloudy days, so it’s also essential to wear Sunscreen all year round.
Make sure to use a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or greater to protect against UVA and UVB rays which can prematurely age and burn the skin. And remember to reapply every two hours if you’re spending an extended period in the sun. The rule is to use about a shot glass worth for the entire body. If you spray sunscreens, spray the product INTO your hand first, then apply it to your body.
Remember- chemical sunscreens need at least 30 min to be fully absorbed into the skin before you head out – so plan accordingly. If you’re in a rush or have super sensitive skin, stick with Physical sunscreens (mineral-based ones) because they start working almost as soon as they are applied.
7. Skipping Face Serums
Adding a facial serum into your skincare routine can significantly affect the look of your complexion. Generally, facial serums have concentrated formulas that help target specific skin concerns such as wrinkles, dry skin, or dull skin. Use one after cleansing bare, dry skin but before applying moisturizer. Suppose you use a treatment serum with exfoliating ingredients (like acid serums). If that doesn’t have moisturizing ingredients, then it’s ok to layer another moisturizing serum on top or use a moisture cream on top of the serum.
8. Waiting Too Long to Apply Moisturizer
If you’re wiping your skin dry with a towel after showering or washing your face, it’s time to kick this habit. You should apply face moisturizer and body lotion to damp skin to help lock in hydration right after. The skin can best soak up hydration when it’s damp and porous.
Note: If you are using an EXFOLIATING face or body product, wait to apply these products until your skin is dry. Damp skin increases absorption, so only use it on damp skin if your skin can handle it. Generally, it’s best to ensure your skin is 100% dry if you use anything exfoliating to prevent irritation.
9. Neglecting Your Neck
Chances are, you’ve probably been forgetting about applying your skin care products to your neck — and it’s time to show this body part some love. Even with the most diligent skincare routine, your neck will still show signs of aging if it stops at your jawline. So, when applying moisturizer as part of your daily skincare regimen, blend it down your neck (and chest). Proceed with caution, however, with any acids and exfoliators used on the neck. Work up a tolerance, be aware of irritation, and discontinue use if necessary. On the neck, sometimes the simpler the product, the better.
Are you ready for glowing and healthy skin with a simple skincare routine?
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