10 Common Mistakes People Make With Their Skin

No matter how old you are, embracing flawless skin should always top your to-do list. From using the correct products for your skin type to scheduling regular checkups with your dermatologist, you likely do everything you can to achieve glowing skin.

But to achieve the ideal results, you also need to learn about skincare mistakes to avoid, and do so to the best of your ability.

To help you through this path, here are 10 everyday mistakes people make with their skin.

1. Using Products Formulated for a Different Skin Type

Just like your car needs a specific motor oil formulation to run smoothly, you should seek skincare products developed specifically for your skin type. For instance, if you have oily skin, you should never use a skincare line formulated for dry skin, and vice versa. This rule opens doors to the best possible results from your skincare regimen and any supplemental non-surgical treatments.

2. Not Drinking Enough Water

You may assume applying moisturizer is the best way to hydrate your skin. But the optimal route to hydrate your skin comes through a multifaceted approach. In addition to your regular moisturizing products, drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day can keep you hydrated from the inside out. If you have trouble remembering to drink water, several free smartphone apps are available to remind you.

3. Overly Relying on Facemasks

Using facemasks containing various hydrating and nourishing ingredients is one of the top skincare tips from dermatologists. But it’s possible to get too much of a good thing. Read the labels on how often to apply your favorite facemasks. Typically, using them two to three times a week is sufficient for your skin.

4. Leaving Your Makeup On

Makeup highlights specific facial features, creates the appearance of smoother skin, and allows you show your flair. But if you leave it on for longer periods, it can clog your pores lead to unnecessary breakouts. No matter how tired you are, thoroughly remove your makeup at the end of every day and put it on fresh the next morning.

5. Not Using Sunscreen

Many people think they don’t need sunblock if it’s overcast or rainy. However, the sun’s rays can damage your skin year-round. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher, and apply it every time you go outdoors. By being diligent about your sunblock use, you can prevent premature aging from sun damage and other concerns such as skin cancer.

6. Avoiding Regular Exfoliation

Exfoliation is a crucial component of a healthy skincare regimen. With a suitable scrub, you can get rid of dead skin cells that obscure your glow. However, be careful not to overdo it. Over-exfoliation can cause redness and irritation, and can also disrupt your skin’s natural cell turnover. Exfoliating two to three times per week should be suitable for most skin types.

7. Having a Bad Diet

Eating a balanced diet does not mean saying goodbye to all your favorite foods. However, it does require you to eat more whole, unprocessed foods and fresh produce from every color of the rainbow. Look for protein sources such as fatty fish, low-fat dairy, and nuts. Changing your diet can encourage a clearer, healthier complexion to emerge.

8. Using Excessive Product

From retinol for acne to seaweed for sebum, you have no shortage of products to choose from for treating various skin concerns. But no matter the ingredient, it takes time for any skincare regime to produce ideal results. Using more products than you need or adding unnecessarily complicated steps to your routine won’t speed up the process of obtaining healthy skin.

9. Scrubbing Your Face

When washing and drying your face, don’t scrub or rub too zealously. Cleanse your skin using a gentle, circular motion, then carefully pat dry. This method ensures your skin does not feel irritated or reddened, while maximizing the effects of toners or moisturizers.

10. Not Getting Enough Sleep

While looking for skincare mistakes to avoid, don’t forget your beauty sleep. Doctors recommend healthy adults get at least seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night to give your body time to repair and restore itself.

Healthy Skin at Any Age

To attain your ideal skin with the help of an expert, contact Dr. Waltzman in Long Beach, CA, to schedule your personalized consultation today. Through specialized treatments and personalized advice, you can achieve healthy skin that glows from within. You can make your appointment by calling (562) 448-6100 or filling out our online form.