Let’s have a heart-to-heart about something that’s a little hard to admit – we might be sabotaging our skin without even realizing it. I know, it sounds dramatic, but hear me out. We’re all guilty of certain skincare habits that might feel like they’re helping, but in reality, they’re doing more harm than good.
Don’t worry though, we’re here to break it all down and figure out how to fix it together. So, let’s talk about the sneaky ways we might be sabotaging our skin—and how to stop!
1. Over-Washing Your Face
Okay, so I know you’ve heard this before, but it’s worth repeating: over-washing is a huge culprit when it comes to wrecking your skin. It feels good to get that fresh, clean feeling, but washing your face too often (especially with harsh cleansers) can strip away your skin’s natural oils. When that happens, your skin starts overcompensating and producing more oil, which can lead to breakouts, irritation, and dryness.
How to fix it:
Stick to washing your face twice a day—morning and night. If you’ve got makeup or sunscreen on, double cleansing (using an oil-based cleanser followed by a gentle one) is a great option. But don’t overdo it—your skin needs those natural oils to stay healthy.
2. Skipping Sunscreen (Even When You’re Inside)
I get it—sometimes sunscreen feels like an extra step you don’t need, especially if you’re just staying indoors all day. But listen up: UV rays can penetrate windows, so you still need sunscreen to protect your skin. Not wearing sunscreen is one of the quickest ways to age your skin prematurely and increase the risk of sun damage, wrinkles, and even skin cancer.
How to fix it:
Make sunscreen a daily habit, no matter where you’re going or how long you’re outside. Opt for a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 (preferably SPF 50 if you’re outside a lot) and reapply every two hours if you’re out in the sun. If you’re indoors, use a mineral sunscreen with protection against blue light (from your phone and computer) too!
3. Popping Pimples
We’ve all been there—staring at a pimple that just won’t quit, and the temptation to pop it is real. But here’s the thing: popping pimples can lead to scarring, more inflammation, and the potential spread of bacteria, making the problem even worse. So, while it might feel satisfying in the moment, it’s a sure way to sabotage your skin’s healing process.
How to fix it:
Instead of popping pimples, try applying a spot treatment with ingredients like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. These can help to dry out the pimple and reduce inflammation. If you can’t resist, make sure to disinfect the area and your hands first, but it’s best to just leave it alone. Your skin will thank you later!
4. Not Getting Enough Sleep
We all know how important sleep is for our mental health, but did you know it’s just as crucial for healthy skin? When we don’t get enough sleep, our body produces more cortisol (the stress hormone), which can lead to more breakouts, dull skin, and overall irritation. Plus, sleep is when your skin repairs itself, so if you’re not getting enough, your skin isn’t getting the rest it needs.
How to fix it:
Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Trust me, your skin will look brighter and feel healthier. You might also want to develop a pre-sleep routine: keep the room cool, avoid screens for at least an hour before bed, and use soothing skincare to wind down (like a calming face oil or moisturizer). Your skin (and your mind) will thank you.
5. Using Harsh Products or Over-Exfoliating
Sometimes, in our quest for clear, glowing skin, we get a little too aggressive with our products. Over-exfoliating or using harsh products with too many actives (like alcohol, strong acids, or physical scrubs) can actually damage the skin barrier. When this happens, you end up with redness, irritation, and even more breakouts.
How to fix it:
Dial back on the harsh products. Stick to gentle, soothing cleansers, and exfoliate only 1-2 times a week. If you love exfoliating acids like AHAs or BHAs, make sure you're using them in moderation and always follow up with a hydrating moisturizer. Your skin doesn’t need to be “scrubbed clean” all the time—it just needs balance.
6. Not Drinking Enough Water
Okay, I know it’s a classic, but it’s true: dehydration can affect your skin in a big way. When you’re not drinking enough water, your skin can become dry, flaky, and more prone to irritation. It also won’t look as plump or glowing as it could. While skincare products are awesome, hydration from the inside out is just as important.
How to fix it:
Aim to drink around 8 glasses of water a day (or more if you’re active). You can also increase your water intake by eating hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens. And no, that coffee or soda doesn’t count—get that pure H2O in!
7. Touching Your Face All the Time
We all touch our faces more than we realize—whether it's resting our hands on our chin, fixing our hair, or just giving our cheeks a little scratch. But here’s the thing: touching your face transfers dirt, bacteria, and oils from your hands, leading to breakouts and irritation. And if you're wearing makeup, it can make everything worse!
How to fix it:
Try to avoid touching your face throughout the day (I know, easier said than done). If you do touch your face, make sure your hands are clean. And keep things like your phone screen, pillowcases, and makeup brushes clean too since they all come in contact with your face regularly.
8. Not Paying Attention to Your Skin Type
This one’s a biggie. Sometimes, we get so caught up in what’s trendy or what worked for a friend that we forget to consider our own skin type. Using the wrong products for your skin—whether it's too harsh, too greasy, or just not formulated for your needs—can make things a lot worse.
How to fix it:
Know your skin type! Are you oily, dry, combination, or sensitive? Once you know, tailor your skincare routine to fit your skin’s specific needs. If you’re unsure, take a quiz or talk to a dermatologist for personalized recommendations.
It’s All About Balance
Skincare isn't about being perfect - it's about building good habits and treating your skin with love. By ditching these common mistakes and embracing a balanced routine, you'll be on your way to glowing, healthy skin.