When it comes to skincare, trying to stay on top of the dos and don’ts can feel overwhelming. With all the information floating around the internet and social media feeds, it’s tough to know what will actually help. What products are worth spending your money on? Which trends are really going to give you the results they are claiming?
Knowing what to add to your skincare routine is important, but what’s just as important is knowing what to avoid. Here are five skincare mistakes you should avoid:
- Over-the-Counter Acne Creams
While over-the-counter creams can be an appealing fix, there are a lot of reasons why they’re not the most ideal solution. Many of them contain strong ingredients like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These can be harsh on sensitive skin when they’re used too often or mixed with other ingredients. While these ingredients can often be helpful, it’s important to know how much and how often to use them. It’s also possible to simply choose a product that doesn’t work for your specific skin type.
Rather than an OTC “quick fix,” investing in an acne treatment with consultations and prescription medication is a game changer. Luckily in today’s high-tech world, you can do this easily without even having to leave your house. There are options for online consultations and delivery methods for your prescriptions. While over-the-counter products may be tempting, taking the time to find quality treatment can go a long way.
- Pore Strips
Pore strips make it easy to say bye to the blackheads looking back at you in the mirror. With a quick application of the strip, a 10-15 minute wait, and removal — you feel as good as new. But what you may not know is how harmful these products can be for your skin when not used properly. For example, if your skin tends to be dry, these strips could cause irritation or increase dryness. Also, if overused, adhesive strips can even harm the skin barrier.
While pore strips can provide the quick fix you may be looking for, it’s not a long-term solution. One alternative is using a charcoal mask that is designed to help absorb oils and cleanse your pores. Retinoids can also be helpful, as they work from the inside out to remove dead skin cells and stimulate collagen. They can also help remove dirt and bacteria, decrease oil production, and unclog pores.
- DIY face masks
DIY face masks have been a popular self-care trend for years. However, many of the recommended ingredients may not be the best choice. They might interact with other skincare products in your regimen. Some interactions can disturb the pH level of your skin, cause breakouts, or leave rashes. In fact, there are many ingredients to avoid altogether such as lemons, baking soda, and vinegar.
Rather than creating your own mask, you can still take an organic approach by investing in all-natural skincare products. You can find masks that cater to your specific skin needs. Finding a licensed esthetician near you and scheduling a facial can also be a beneficial option. These professionals are trained to find your problem areas and tailor treatments to get the skin you’re looking for.
- Skipping the Sunscreen
You may have seen the trends that recommend sunscreen contouring or replacing SPF with essential oils. You may have also skipped the face sunscreen to get that sun-kissed glow on your cheeks in the summertime. Unfortunately, not applying SPF can wreak serious havoc on your skin. Not only does this have short-term effects like sunburns, but it can also risk skin cancer and premature aging. UV radiation causes collagen, the tissue that helps make skin strong, to break down more rapidly.
Adding sunscreen to your skincare routine doesn’t have to be a chore. Many quality face moisturizers and foundations have SPF included. This makes it easy to stick with your current routine and effortlessly includes UV ray protection. On hot days in the sun though, it’s important to reapply sunscreen to get coverage all day long.
- Makeup Remover Wipes
If you use makeup remover wipes, you know how simple they are to use. At the end of a long day, you can just pull out a thin cloth and have clean skin in no time. But the truth is makeup wipes don’t truly wash your impurities away, they merely smear them around. Many of them also include harmful chemicals such as surfactants, solubilizers, and others that release formaldehyde. Not to mention, scrubbing your face can aggravate your skin, leading to pigmentation or premature wrinkles.
Fortunately, there are great alternatives that are also quick and easy, without the potentially damaging effects. Micellar water with cotton pads can be a gentle way to remove makeup, while also cleaning and hydrating your skin. There are also makeup remover cloths that work once water is added. These are not only effortless, but they are also reusable, making them worth the investment for your face and the environment.
The Bottom Line
Oftentimes, altering your daily skincare routine is no simple task. It can cost more time, more energy, and possibly even more money. However, if you’re looking for long-lasting results and a glowing complexion, it’s important to avoid common skincare mistakes. The benefits easily outweigh the challenges. Now that you know what mistakes to avoid, you’re on the way to smoother, more vibrant skin.
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