Taking care of your skin is important, but it's easy to make mistakes in your skincare routine. Here are some of the biggest skincare mistakes you may be making and how to fix them.
Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells and reveals brighter, smoother skin. But it's easy to overdo it. Exfoliating more than 2-3 times a week can cause irritation and micro-tears in the skin. This can lead to inflammation, sensitivity, and breakouts. Limit manual exfoliation to 1-2 times per week and chemical exfoliation to 2-3 times per week. Always moisturize after exfoliating to avoid dryness.
Ignoring Your Neck and Chest
Many people focus their skincare routine only on their face. But your neck and chest area are just as susceptible to signs of aging. The skin on your neck is thinner and contains fewer oil glands than facial skin, so it shows age faster. Extend your skincare products including cleanser, treatments, moisturizer and sunscreen down to your neck and chest to keep the skin looking youthful.
Not Removing Makeup Before Bed
Going to sleep with a full face of makeup is a big no-no. Not properly removing makeup, oil, dirt, and pollution that accumulates during the day can clog pores and cause breakouts. It also results in the breakdown of collagen and elastin while you sleep. Get into the habit of thoroughly cleansing and removing all traces of makeup with a makeup remover before bedtime, followed by your regular cleanser. Your skin will look better overnight.
Using Products That Are Too Harsh
Many skincare products contain harsh ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, and chemical exfoliants that can damage and irritate the skin. This can impair the skin's natural moisture barrier and cause inflammation. Check the ingredient lists of your skincare products. Opt for gentle cleansers without sulfates, moisturizers with hydrating ingredients like glycerin, and chemical exfoliants from names like Dennis Gross with lactic or glycolic acid. Discontinue use of any products that cause redness or stinging.
Neglecting Your Eye Area
The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on your body, so it's prone to fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles and puffiness. But many people forget to pay attention to this delicate area. Treat your eye area gently and use specialized products meant for the eyes. Apply a lightweight eye cream morning and night after cleansing. Use gentle tapping motions and avoid pulling or tugging the delicate skin.
Not Moisturizing Properly
Proper moisturization helps keep skin hydrated, strengthens the moisture barrier, and gives your skin a youthful glow. But some common mistakes include not applying moisturizer to damp skin after cleansing, using a moisturizer that's too heavy or light for your skin type, and not applying enough. After cleansing, pat your skin dry and apply moisturizer within the first few minutes while your skin is still damp to seal in moisture. Choose a moisturizer suited for your skin type. Apply a dime-sized amount and gently massage it into your face.
By avoiding these common skincare mistakes and taking care of your skin properly, you'll be on your way to a healthy, radiant complexion! Taking a little extra care goes a long way for your skin.
