Taking care of your skin is more than just applying the latest trending product. Some habits in your skincare routine that seem harmless might actually be causing long-term damage. Here are five skincare mistakes you need to stop making ASAP—and how to fix them.
Skincare Mistakes You Need to Stop Making Right Now
1. Sleeping in Your Makeup
After a long day, washing your face might feel like a chore, but skipping this step can have serious consequences. Leaving makeup, dirt, and oil on your skin overnight clogs pores, leads to breakouts, and accelerates aging. Your skin repairs itself at night, and when it’s covered in layers of product and pollutants, that process gets disrupted.
Solution: Always cleanse your face before bed. If you’re too tired for a full routine, use a gentle, all-in-one cleanser that removes makeup, SPF, and impurities. Keep micellar water and cotton pads near your bedside as a backup plan for your face care routine.
2. Skipping SPF
Think sunscreen is only for sunny days? Think again. UV rays penetrate clouds and windows, causing premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and increasing your risk of skin cancer. Many people skip SPF on cloudy or winter days, thinking it’s unnecessary, but harmful rays are present year-round.
Solution: Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every day, rain or shine. Look for lightweight formulas in your morning skin care routine that don’t feel greasy or leave a white cast. If reapplying throughout the day feels like a hassle, opt for a setting spray with SPF or a tinted sunscreen.
3. Not Washing Your Makeup Brushes
Makeup brushes and sponges collect bacteria, dirt, and oil, which can lead to breakouts and skin infections if not cleaned regularly. Dirty brushes also affect the application of your products, leading to uneven makeup and clogged pores.
Solution: Wash your brushes weekly using a gentle cleanser or brush cleaner. Let them air dry completely before using them again. For a quick fix between washes, use an antibacterial spray designed for brushes.
4. Relying on Makeup Wipes Instead of Cleansing
Makeup wipes might seem like a quick fix, but they don’t effectively remove all dirt and oil. They can leave residue on your skin and contain harsh ingredients that strip moisture. Using them too often can weaken the skin barrier, leading to irritation and dryness.
Solution: Use micellar water or an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup, followed by a gentle face wash to remove any residue. If you prefer a minimal routine, opt for a cleansing balm that effectively dissolves makeup while nourishing your skin.
5. Overusing Dry Shampoo
Dry shampoo is a lifesaver on busy days, but using it too often can lead to product buildup, scalp irritation, and even hair breakage. It absorbs excess oil, but it doesn’t actually cleanse your scalp, which can cause clogged follicles and an itchy scalp over time.
Solution: Limit dry shampoo use to twice a week and wash your hair regularly to maintain a healthy scalp. If you need to extend the life of your hairstyle, try refreshing your hair with a lightweight, non-greasy leave-in spray or using a scalp scrub to remove buildup.
Final Thoughts
Your skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding these damaging habits can make a world of difference. By making small adjustments and prioritizing good skincare practices, you’ll set yourself up for healthier, glowing skin in the long run.
For more skincare tips and expert insights, stay connected with Dazzlerr!