When we’re young, we’re able to wash our face in the shower, throw on some optional moisturizer, and call it a day. As we get older, how...
When we’re young, we’re able to wash our face in the shower, throw on some optional moisturizer, and call it a day. As we get older, however, we must take meticulous care of our skin to avoid breakouts and hopefully slow the aging process. The problem is that many of the things we do to our faces—that we assume are helping—might cause harm instead. Read on for six mistakes you’re probably making with your skin care.
1. You’re Exfoliating Too Much
Exfoliating can almost become addictive because it feels amazing to slough off the dead skin cells, leaving our faces feeling baby-soft. However, exfoliating too much can often be what causes facial redness and irritation. Another sign that you’re exfoliating too much is dry and flaky skin. While some of that could be seasonal, if it continues it might mean that you’re doing too much exfoliating. And although this might be surprising, too much exfoliation can cause acne breakouts. Experiment with how many times per week works for your skin and stick with that to avoid ill effects.2. You’re Not Wearing Primer
What we do to our skin before we put makeup on is vitally important, and will help us make the most of our cosmetics regimen. And one thing many makeup mavens do wrong is not wearing primer. Even if you are a pro at applying makeup, primer is what sets the stage for perfection. Without it, foundation can fall into cracks or wrinkles and highlight imperfections rather than covering them. Go forth and prime, people.3. You’re Not Effective Enough with Sunscreen
Are you one of the many people that applies sunscreen at the beginning of the day in the form of actual sun lotion or moisturizing lotion and then forgets it? That’s fine if you’re indoors all day. If you’re going to be out and about, however, you need to reapply. This is particularly true if you’re at the beach or pool during the summer. Reapplication of sunscreen is crucial when it comes to being effective against the sun’s harmful UV rays. Another sunscreen application mistake many make is forgetting to apply it to the neck and chest. Even if your face still has a youthful glow, a neck or chest that have been neglected could betray your real age.4. You’re Not Able to Combat Both Fine Lines and Acne Simultaneously
Many people mistakenly assume that acne breakouts only happen to teens. Oh, cruel, cruel fate. Many of us get acne when we get older because of hormonal imbalances. And by this point we are on the front lines of the battle against wrinkles. The biggest mistake you can make is to try to rectify only one situation. Because acne can be distressing, you might be tempted to get a harsh, acne-fighting cleanser for your face. However, a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils is the way to go. As renowned dermatologist Dr. Annie Chiu says via Prevention.com, “Creams that contain retinoids can help clear adult acne, as well as treat wrinkles.” Retinoids can exfoliate, boost collagen production, and unclog pores, so choosing them to fight both issues simultaneous acne and wrinkles is the most effective route.5. You’re Not Washing Your Face at Night
Your nighttime skin care ritual is the most important, as shunning that last opportunity to cleanse and moisturize can lead to dehydration and clogged pores. Many of us are exhausted at night and tempted to simply go to bed. If worse comes to worst, use makeup or facial wipes. While you don’t want to make this a habit, it’s better than not cleansing at all.6. You’re Cleansing in the Shower
Much like #5, washing your face in the shower is very tempting. Because you likely shower every day, cleansing while in there is the most convenient. However, as this article on TheEveryGirl.com notes, “The unstable temperature is not only going to break down your products at an accelerated rate, but the otherwise mild surfactants in your cleansers become highly irritating when applied to your sensitized skin while in a hot shower.” Instead of this hot and humid environment, wash your face prior to getting in the shower using cool to lukewarm water.We all make mistakes but, when it comes to our skin, we want to know what these are and rectify them ASAP. Take steps to avoid what we’ve mentioned and those around you will always wonder how you get that consistently youthful glow.
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