15 Mistakes That are Damaging Your Skin

Most of us have a skincare routine that we stick to out of habit — it’s all about a repetition of steps you have to do day in and day out. But what if you are you repeating the wrong steps?

Our skin is our best ally: it is our shell and protects us from all the outside dangers. Let’s treat it right and avoid making common mistakes that might damage it for good! Here is a list of just some of the mistakes we’re all guilty of that could be the reason why your skin isn’t as good as it used to be!

Sometimes, wrong skincare practices become a habit. The following are some frequent mistakes people get involved in. Carrying out any of them on a daily basis may cause a serious damage to your skin. Learn the right ways to care for your skin and avoid the wrong ones we all fall for.

Read our top 20 habits that we are all guilty of.

Over exfoliating

Despite a scrub being touted as extremely good for you skin, you don’t have to over do it. Once or twice a week is more than fine otherwise you will remove all your skin’s protective barriers.

Picking at your face

It is probably the most common mistake ever! And every time we do it it might seem like we are doing nothing wrong but we are actually damaging our skin and running the risk of leaving scars and holes.

Going to bed with your make up on

Another extremely common mistake! However, it takes no longer than 3 minutes to wash away your make up and one night only to clog your pores and oil glands.

Choosing the wrong cleanser

Always choose a cleanser according to your skin type. You can find out more about what type of skin you have by visiting a dermatologist or skin care expert and investing in good quality products that target your areas of improvement.

Don’t borrow someone else’s make up

Sharing a mascara or foundation might be a terrible mistake as it increases the chances of getting an eye or skin infection. It’s tempting sometimes to borrow your best friends mascara on a night out or give yourself a little powder with one of their makeup brushes but don’t, in this case sharing really isn’t caring.

Using dirty make up brushes

Make sure your make up brushes are always clean otherwise the old dirt and make up build up will negatively affect your skin. You can wash your brushes by rinsing them under warm water and using a gentle cleanser or soap to remove any makeup build up, sure you have to leave them to dry before you can use them again – but they’ll feel fabulous and soft on your face.

Not using a moisturizing cream

It is inevitable for our skin to dry out, especially over the cold winter times. To avoid it apply a good moisturizing cream and your skin will start shining again! Check out our guide to choosing the right moisturizer for your skin tone here!

Not getting enough sleep

Sleep is the oldest remedy in the world! A good night’s sleep is what your skin needs to look at its best. A lack of sleep will make your skin dull and pale and your face covered by dark under-eye circles. If you need some tips for falling asleep faster and getting a good night’s sleep, check out our guide to visiting dream world here!

Not using a protective sunscreen

If you don’t apply a sunscreen, especially when you go to the beach, there’s a high chance that you will get sunburnt. Plus, too much time in the sun might increase the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging.

Hot showers

A warm bath is recommended but try to avoid a shower that’s too hot, as although tempting, it can get rid of healthy oils and essential moisture.

Being toner aggressive

Especially in the colder months of the year, too much toner will strip away all the moisture. Use rose water as an all-over toner alternative.

Not washing your hands before washing your face

This is a quite common mistake but hold on for a second and think about all the bacteria, dirt and oil from your hands and fingers that you are putting right on your skin!

Drinking too much soda

Soda is extremely high in sugar and acidity meaning that too much soda might cause irritation and acne to your skin and might also cause a strong redness.

Using the same products all year round

Especially when it comes to products such as moisturizers it is important to change it accordingly to the season you are in. Our skin needs different kinds of moisture, especially during winter and summer.

Neglecting our neck

The neck is the number one indicator of age and quite often we forget to take a good care of it. Maybe you won’t notice a big difference now but if you start cleansing and moisturizing south of your chin you will be extremely grateful in a couple of years.

Skipping the dermatologist’s appointments

Having clear skin doesn’t mean that you have to skip out on an annual dermatologist’s appointment. It is important to do a yearly check!

I’m sure you’ve gasped at at least one of these, we’re all a little guilty of neglecting our skin but hopefully with a fresh perspective we can change up our skincare routine and enjoy clear, soft skin forever!

Not washing your pillow cases

Pillow cases accumulate all the make up and hair product residue that might clog your pores over time. To avoid it change your pillow case at least once a week.

Not eating vegetables

Having a bad diet is another really common mistake. It is important to eat vegetables and add a little of colour to your diet: green salad, red tomatoes, etc. Veggies are full of vitamins, are great antioxidants and will help make you skin glow.

Buying products without reading the ingredients

We must know what we put on our skin and always remember that “price doesn’t always determine quality”!

Not using anti-aging products

We must not wait too long to apply anti-aging products. Prevention is always the best defense so if you are not in your twenties start using some good anti-aging creams!