Taking care of your skin is essential to maintaining a healthy and glowing complexion. However, there are some common skincare sins that you may be committing without even realizing it. In this guide, we'll cover six skincare sins to avoid to keep your skin looking and feeling its best.
#1 Using expired skincare
Using expired skincare products is one of the biggest skincare sins you can commit. Expired products can be ineffective and even harmful to your skin. To avoid this, check the expiration date on your products and make sure to use them before they expire. If you're not sure when a product expires, look for the PAO symbol (point after opening symbol) on the packaging that looks like an open jar with a number inside. This indicates how many months the product is good for after opening.
#2 Touching the serum dropper on your skin
When applying serums, it's important to avoid touching the dropper on your skin. This can introduce bacteria into the product, which can lead to breakouts and other skin issues. Instead, dispense the serum onto your fingertips and then apply it to your face.
#3 Not using sunscreen in the fall & winter
Many people think that sunscreen is only necessary in the summer months, but it's actually important to use sunscreen year-round. Even in the fall and winter, the sun's UV rays can still cause damage to your skin. Snow has a reflective effect, bouncing the sun’s rays back at you! Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it every day, even if you're just going to be indoors.
#4 Not washing your hands before applying skincare products
Washing your hands before applying skincare products is essential to maintaining a healthy complexion. Your hands come into contact with a lot of bacteria throughout the day, and if you don't wash them before applying your skincare products, you can transfer that bacteria onto your face. This can lead to breakouts and other skin issues. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying any skincare products.
#5 Squeezing pimples
Squeezing pimples is a common skincare sin that can cause more harm than good. When you squeeze a pimple, you can push bacteria deeper into your pores, which can lead to inflammation and breakouts. Instead, use a salicylic acid based product. Salicylic acid works to clear out your pores over time, reducing blackheads and acne!
#6 Not cleaning your makeup brushes
Makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and other harmful substances that can cause breakouts and other skin issues. To avoid this, make sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly. Use a gentle cleanser, micellar water or brush cleaner to remove any buildup and bacteria from the bristles. After rinsing, make sure to dry your brushes by laying them flat instead of upright to avoid moisture buildup in the brush head!
Avoiding these six skincare sins can help to keep your skin looking and feeling its best. By using fresh products, avoiding bacteria, and taking care of your skin, you can achieve a healthy, glowing complexion. Remember to always read the instructions on your skincare products and to listen to your skin - if something doesn't feel right, it's important to make adjustments to your routine. With a little bit of effort and care, you can achieve the perfect complexion.