We all want healthy, glowing skin, but sometimes, without realising it, our skincare habits may be doing more harm than good. From over-cleansing to using the wrong products, even small mistakes can cause dryness, irritation or breakouts.
Here are some of the most common skincare mistakes people make and how to fix them, using a simple and effective routine.
1. Washing Your Face Too Often
Washing your face feels refreshing, but doing it too often strips away natural oils that protect your skin. Overwashing can lead to dryness, irritation or even increased oil production to make up for the loss.
What to do instead: Stick to washing your face twice a day, once in the morning and once before bed, using a gentle cleanser like Clearasil Gentle Skin Perfecting Wash, which is designed to cleanse without drying out your skin.
2. Skipping Moisturiser (Even if You Have Oily Skin)
Many people think oily skin means they don’t need moisturiser. But skipping it can actually make your skin produce more oil, worsening the problem.
What to do instead: Use a light, non-greasy moisturiser suitable for your skin type. If you have dry or sensitive skin, QV Skin Lotion is a great option. It hydrates and soothes without clogging your pores.
3. Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, but doing it too often or using harsh scrubs can cause microtears and irritation.
What to do instead: Limit exfoliation to 2–3 times per week and choose a gentle exfoliant like Skin Doctors Exfoliating Crystals, which is specially formulated to renew your skin without damaging it.
4. Not Removing Makeup Properly
Sleeping with makeup on is one of the most damaging things you can do to your skin. It clogs pores, causes breakouts, and prevents your skin from breathing overnight.
What to do instead: Always remove your makeup completely before going to bed. Use a gentle cleanser followed by a moisturiser to keep your skin clean and hydrated.
5. Using Too Many Products at Once
Trying lots of new products at the same time can overwhelm your skin and lead to redness, breakouts or reactions.
What to do instead: The best skincare routine is usually simple. Start with the basics: a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen. Add treatments only when needed and introduce new products one at a time.
6. Skipping Sunscreen
Even in the UK’s cooler months, UV rays can damage your skin and speed up ageing. Skipping sunscreen is a mistake that adds up over time.
What to do instead: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF every morning, even on cloudy days. Make it part of your morning skincare routine so you never forget.
7. Not Following the Right Order in Your Routine
Using skincare products in the wrong order can reduce their effectiveness. For example, applying moisturiser before a serum means the serum won’t absorb properly.
What to do instead: Follow this basic skincare routine:
1. Cleanser
2. Toner (optional)
3. Serum or treatment
4. Moisturiser
5. Sunscreen (morning only)
Can Skincare Products Damage Your Skin?
Yes, they can, if used incorrectly. Many people experience breakouts, dryness or redness simply because they are using the wrong products for their skin type, applying too much, or layering ingredients that don’t work well together.
For example, harsh scrubs or chemical peels used too often can damage your skin barrier. Fragranced lotions may trigger allergic reactions. Even using expired products can lead to infections or irritation.
Discover Gentle and Trusted Skincare for Every Skin Type
Good skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be consistent. Avoiding common skincare mistakes and choosing the right products can make a big difference. Start with a basic skincare routine and listen to what your skin needs. Small changes can lead to a healthier, clearer complexion over time. Browse skin care products online.
