Most of us have a skincare routine that we stick to out of habit — it’s all about a repetition of steps you have to do day in and day out. But what if you are you repeating the wrong steps? Read our top 10 habits that we are all guilty of.
Over Exfoliating
It’s tempting but highly damaging in the long term to buff away too much of
your top skin layer. “Over exfoliating will remove your skin’s protective barrier,” says Clinic Manager, Gillian Lowe. “Once removed, your skin is exposed to environmental toxins and sun damage, causing aging. Exfoliate a maximum of two to three times a month using something like the Agera Microderma System, designed to gently dissolve dead skin cells leaving a glowing complexion.”
Falling Into Bed With Your Makeup On
You can be forgiven for that one drunken night, but don’t make it a habit. “Not removing your makeup for the night clogs your pore and oil glands,” says Gillian. “When makeup becomes impacted in pores, it makes them appear larger. Once your collagen levels decline, the pore won’t snap back as easily once it has been enlarged and it can lead to inflammation.”
Not Cleansing Properly
You may be diligent in makeup removal, but are you using the right cleanser to put your skin in optimal condition for overnight renewal? “Look for a cleanser that contains the right ingredients,” says Gillian. “Things like antioxidants for protection and salicylic acid to help clear your pores.” The Obagi Clenziderm Daily Foaming Cleanser is perfect for everyday use, containing 2% salicylic acid to clear skin and prevent breakouts.
Not Wearing Sunscreen Every Day
It’s not just for the beach: The best protection against skin aging is an SPF defense. “Wear it everyday, and look for one that has an SPF of 30 or higher,”
says Gillian “It should also be broad spectrum, which means it helps to shield you from UVA rays (as well as UVB) which are known to cause photoaging of the skin.” Heliocare Gel SPF 50+ is the perfect everyday SPF because it is lightweight and transparent.
Not Applying Products In The Correct order
“One of the keys to maximizing the benefits of the products in your regimen is to apply products with a thinner consistency before the thicker, creamier ones — no matter what their active ingredients are,” says Gillian. “Products with heavier consistencies can block lighter weight ones from penetrating the skin and doing their job.”
Over-Using Products
Just like over-scrubbing, over-using your cleanser or retinol products also compromises your skin’s natural protective oil. Read our guide on how to get the most out of your products.
Popping Pimples
We know you’ll do it sometimes, but it’s still bad for your skin overall. “When people try to squeeze spots themselves, they squeeze from the side which ends up causing infection to go down deeper into the pore.” She advises washing your face with a clean washcloth and a gentle cleanser like Dermaquest Essential Cleanser. If the spot is ready to pop, this is all the pressure needed to drain it.
Drying Out Your Skin
Drying Out Your SkinPeople with acne or the occasional pimple think they need to dry out their skin, so choose products that are too harsh — which can cause further irritation than the breakout itself. Look for a treatment that soothes while it targets your skin concern, and to always finish with a hydrating moisturizer such as Dermaquest Delicate Soothing Serum.
Not Moisturizing Oily Skin
Regardless of your skin type, it’s imperative that you moisturize daily and apply a heavier cream at night, says Gillian. “It’s a common misconception that those with an oily skin should avoid moisturizers. In fact, it’s vital that even oily skin gets moisture because without it, skin will overcompensate for the loss of hydration with more oil, leading to breakouts and an uneven skin texture.” Dermaquest Skinbrite Serum is the perfect antioxidant rich serum for oily skin.
Not Knowing What You Are Putting on Your Skin
How can you ever truly enjoy great skin if you don’t educate yourself on what you are putting on it? Read up on ingredients and learn about what you are applying on yourself and remember price doesn’t always determine quality. Our experts are always at hand to answer any questions and advise on which ingredients are best suited to your individual skin type. Book a free skin assessment today and start learning more about how to keep your skin healthy & glowing.
