10 Common Mistakes You Make In Your Skincare Routine

skin health Jun 17, 2024

You know how I like a simple skincare routine; Cleanse, Toner, Moisturizer and Sunscreen! and you may want to sneak in our B Serum in the evenings and a gentle exfoliant a couple times a week.

But sometimes there are things we are doing or maybe not doing that can make all the difference in the health and glow of your skin. 

Here are 10 common mistakes people make with their skincare routines:

  1. Not cleansing your skin properly.
  2. Over-exfoliating your skin.
  3. Skipping sunscreen.
  4. Not moisturizing enough.
  5. Using products with harsh ingredients.
  6. Picking at your skin.
  7. Using too many products at once.
  8. Not adjusting your routine based on your skin's needs.
  9. Ignoring your neck and chest area.
  10. Not drinking enough water for overall skin health.

Let's take a deeper dive..

1. Not cleansing your skin properly: Proper cleansing is the foundation of any skincare routine. When you don't cleanse effectively, dirt, oil, and impurities build up on your skin, leading to clogged pores, breakouts, and dullness. Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type—one that effectively removes debris without stripping your skin of its natural oils.

Double cleansing, especially if you wear makeup or sunscreen, can ensure a thorough cleanse, and using lukewarm water is gentler on the skin than hot water. This step prepares your skin to better absorb the products in your routine, maximizing their effectiveness.

2. Over-exfoliating your skin: Exfoliation is beneficial for promoting skin cell turnover and revealing fresh, radiant skin. However, over-exfoliating can disrupt the skin's natural barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, redness, and even micro-tears in the skin. It's important to balance exfoliation with your skin's needs; aim for 2-3 times a week for most skin types.

Choose natural exfoliators gentle yet effective way to slough off dead skin cells, reveal a brighter complexion, and promote skin renewal without relying on acids. Ingredients like oatmeal, rice flour, and ground almonds are popular choices for physical exfoliation, offering mild abrasion to buff away rough skin texture. These natural exfoliants provide a nourishing and soothing experience, making them suitable for sensitive skin types that may react to harsher chemical exfoliants.

Dry brushing is another natural exfoliation technique that involves using a brush with stiff bristles to gently massage the skin in circular motions. This method helps stimulate circulation, remove dry, flaky skin, and support lymphatic drainage. Dry brushing can enhance skin texture, improve the appearance of cellulite, and promote overall skin health by increasing blood flow and encouraging the removal of toxins through the skin. Incorporating natural exfoliators like oatmeal, ground almonds, and dry brushing into your skincare routine can offer a gentle yet revitalizing way to maintain smooth, glowing skin.

3. Skipping sunscreen: Sunscreen is a non-negotiable step in any skincare routine. UV rays from the sun can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. By skipping sunscreen, you leave your skin vulnerable to these harmful effects. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher and apply it daily, even on cloudy days. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if you're spending extended time outdoors. Sunscreen not only protects your skin but also helps maintain a youthful appearance and prevent dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

4. Not moisturizing enough: Moisturizing plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health and preventing issues like dryness, flakiness, and irritation. A good moisturizer helps to lock in hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and improve skin texture and elasticity. Depending on your skin type, choose a moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid for hydration, ceramides for barrier repair, and antioxidants for added skin protection. Apply moisturizer to damp skin after cleansing to seal in moisture effectively and keep your skin looking supple and radiant.

5. Using products with harsh ingredients: Harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, artificial fragrances, and alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils, disrupt its pH balance, and cause irritation and sensitivity. Opt for products with gentle, skin-friendly ingredients that nourish and protect your skin. Look for labels that mention hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and fragrance-free to minimize the risk of adverse reactions.

Natural ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, green tea, and jojoba oil can be soothing and beneficial for sensitive skin types. By avoiding harsh ingredients, you can ensure your skincare routine promotes healthy, balanced skin without causing unnecessary damage or irritation.

6. Picking at your skin: Picking at your skin, including popping pimples or picking at blemishes, can lead to inflammation, scarring, and potential infections. This habit can also worsen existing skin conditions like acne and rosacea. It's vital to resist the urge to pick at your skin to prevent further damage and allow your skin to heal properly. Instead, adopt a hands-off approach and consult with one of medical aestheticians, not only can we treat your acne we can help keep it from coming back!

7. Using too many products at once: While a skincare routine is essential, using too many products simultaneously can overwhelm your skin and lead to potential reactions or sensitivities. Simplify your routine by identifying your skin's specific needs and using products that target those concerns effectively. Introduce new products gradually to monitor how your skin reacts, and consider consulting with a skincare specialist to create a personalized regimen tailored to your skin type and goals.

Here's a simple yet effective 5-step skincare routine:

  1. Step 1: Cleanser

    • Kick off your routine with a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type. Massage the cleanser onto damp skin, then rinse with lukewarm water to eliminate impurities without stripping your skin. This step creates a clean canvas for the rest of your routine.
  2. Step 2: Toner

    • After cleansing, apply a toner to balance your skin's pH levels and prepare it for better product absorption. Opt for an alcohol-free toner that hydrates and refreshes the skin, helping to refine pores and promote a smoother complexion.
  3. Step 3: Exfoliate

    • Use an exfoliator 2-3 times a week to slough off dead skin cells. Choose a gentle exfoliator tailored to your skin needs, whether it's a physical scrub with natural exfoliants like oatmeal or even dry brushing.
  4. Step 4: B Serum - Safe Alternative to Retinol

    • Incorporate our B Serum from skinbyKDU into your routine as a safe alternative to retinol, with Bakuchiol is known for its retinol-like benefits without the potential irritation or sensitivity associated with retinol. Apply a few drops of the serum onto clean, toned skin, gently pressing it in for improved skin texture and firmness.
  5. Step 5: Moisturizer

    • Complete your routine by applying a moisturizer to lock in hydration and nutrients. Pair your skincare routine with a moisturizer that complements the B Serum, keeping your skin nourished and protected. Gently massage the moisturizer into your skin for a soft, supple feel, ensuring your skin stays hydrated throughout the day or night.

8. Not adjusting your routine based on your skin's needs: Skin is dynamic and can change based on factors such as climate, hormones, stress, and age. Failing to adjust your skincare routine according to these changes can result in ineffective or even harmful outcomes, think damaged skin barrier. Pay attention to how your skin looks and feels each day, and adapt your routine by incorporating hydrating products during dry seasons or using calming ingredients for sensitive skin. By being mindful of your skin's evolving needs, you can ensure your skincare routine remains effective in promoting healthy and radiant skin.

9. Ignoring your neck and chest area: Neglecting skincare on your neck and chest areas can result in uneven skin tone, premature aging, and the development of fine lines and wrinkles. These areas are often exposed to the sun and environmental stressors, making them prone to damage. Extend your skincare routine beyond your face to include your neck and chest by applying sunscreen and moisturizer daily. Gently exfoliate these areas to promote cell turnover and address concerns like sagging skin or hyperpigmentation. By treating your neck and chest with the same care as your face, you can maintain a more youthful and uniform complexion.

10. Not drinking enough water for overall skin health: Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin from the inside out. Water helps flush out toxins, regulate body temperature, and support skin cell function and regeneration. When you're dehydrated, your skin can appear dull, dry, and prone to issues like fine lines and uneven texture. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, and adjust your intake based on factors like activity level and climate.

Here are 10 hydrating foods that can help keep you well-nourished and your skin radiantly hydrated:

  1. Cucumbers: With a high water content (around 96%), cucumbers are not only refreshing but also hydrating. They are a great low-calorie snack to add to your diet.

  2. Watermelon: This summertime favorite is made up of about 92% water, making it a delicious and hydrating fruit option.

  3. Celery: Consisting of about 95% water, celery is a hydrating veggie that can be enjoyed on its own or as a crunchy addition to salads.

  4. Strawberries: These juicy berries are not only tasty but also hydrating, containing around 91% water. Enjoy them as a snack or add them to your morning yogurt or smoothie.

  5. Spinach: Leafy greens like spinach are packed with water content (about 92%) and are also rich in vitamins and minerals for overall health and hydration.

  6. Bell Peppers: These colorful veggies are not only hydrating (around 92% water) but also provide a good dose of Vitamin C and antioxidants.

  7. Oranges: Oranges are not just a citrusy delight but also contain about 87% water, making them a hydrating fruit choice.

  8. Yogurt: Apart from being a good source of probiotics for gut health, yogurt is also hydrating and can be a refreshing snack on its own or mixed with fruits and nuts.

  9. Coconut Water: Known for its natural electrolytes, coconut water is a hydrating beverage option that can be consumed on its own or used in smoothies.

  10. Tomatoes: These juicy fruits (often mistaken as veggies) are hydrating (about 94% water) and versatile in many dishes, from salads to sauces.

Including these hydrating foods in your diet can help keep you well-hydrated and support overall health and skin hydration.

Hydrate your skin internally by consuming water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, in addition to drinking water regularly. By staying properly hydrated, you can improve your skin's overall health, radiance, and resilience.

In conclusion, taking care of your skin involves more than just the products you use—it's about understanding common mistakes and making informed choices to promote skin health. By avoiding pitfalls like improper cleansing, over-exfoliation, and neglecting sunscreen, you can set a strong foundation for a healthy skincare routine. Embracing gentle exfoliation, adequate hydration, and mindful product selection can help maintain skin balance and vitality.

Are you in Moncton? Take this opportunity to have a professional natural skin rejuvenation treatment with our medical aesthetician at EASTND.

Skin Team at EASTND - Book Now 

Not in Moncton? That's ok, we offer virtual skin rejuvenation consultations - BOOK HERE

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Instagram: @skinbykdu  and @eastnd

Email: [email protected]

Call 1.506.830.8333

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