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Not cleansing properly -

Even if you're diligent in makeup removal, you have to be sure you're using a cleanser with the right ingredients. It should contain things like antioxidants for protection, and salicylic acid to help clear your pores.

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Over-exfoliating -

It might be tempting, but over-exfoliating is highly damaging in the long term. You're actually removing the protective barrier of your skin, making it more prone to environmental toxins and sun damage. Exfoliate at max two to three times a week.

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Sleeping with your makeup on -

Sure, it's okay if it happened once, but it really shouldn't become a habit. Not removing your makeup for the night clogs your pores and oil glands. This will make your pores appear larger.

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Not applying products in the correct order -

To fully maximize the benefits of the products in your regimen is to apply products with a thinner consistency before the thicker ones. It doesn't matter what their active ingredients are. This is because heavier products can block the lighter ones from penetrating the skin and doing their job.

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Using dirty makeup brushes -

Dirty makeup brushes are doing more damage to your skin than you think. Keeping your brushes clean will ensure no dirt or old makeup affect your skin.

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Not wearing sunscreen every day -

The best protection against skin aging is a good sunscreen defense. It should be used every day, even in winter. Make sure it has an SPF of 30 or higher. And don't forget to apply to your chest and the top of your hands daily as well.

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Sleeping on a cotton pillowcase -

Switch to satin or silk, as they minimize permanent creases and complexion issues. Persistently pressing your face into a cotton pillowcase causes the skin to aggravate by the friction of cotton. This can cause permanent creases as our collagen breaks down.

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Rubbing the products on harshly -

Harshly rubbing on products can damage the skin. The best way to apply is by maintaining negligible pressure and focusing on spreading instead of rigorously massaging them in.

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Exfoliating away oily skin -

People think that if they exfoliate with different scrubs, they’ll eliminate oily skin. But that's simply not true. When your skin is over-scrubbed, the oil production actually speeds up because the skin’s natural repair mechanism is put into overdrive. Again, two to three times per week is enough for exfoliation, even for oily skin.

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Overusing all your products -

Just like over-scrubbing, overusing your cleanser or other products also compromises your skin’s natural protective oil. It isn’t necessary to cleanse in the morning and the evening. The evening cleanse is crucial to removing dirt, oil, and makeup. But during sleep, the oils that your skin produces are hydrating and balancing, so they shouldn’t be washed away in the morning. Buffing your face with a wet washcloth is enough in the morning.

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Popping pimples -

We all know we do this sometimes, but it's a terrible idea for your skin. When we squeeze a pimple from the side, it ends up creating an infection that goes down deeper into the pore. It's better to wash your face with a clean washcloth. If the pimple is ready to pop, this is all the pressure needed to drain it.

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Sleeping with your hair out -

Many people get breakouts on their perimeter of their face and forehead due to the oil and hair care products that they use. Pull all of your hair off your face and clip your bangs back before bed.

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Using products not designed for your skin type -

Make it a point to read your products’ labels to make sure you’re using the right product for you. For example, if you have sensitive skin, opt for fragrance-free products that feature calming ingredients like aloe, calendula, and chamomile.

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Eating a bad diet -

Your diet impacts your skin as well. Make sure you consume veggies that have a lot of color, such as red cabbage and green lettuce. Also, cut down on sugar, as it makes your skin produce more oils and androgens, which cause acne.

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Not frequently washing your sheets and pillowcase -

Pillowcases accumulate a buildup of residue from things like conditioner and scalp oil, which can clog your pores. Therefore, you should change your pillowcase and sheets at least once a week.

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Not getting enough sleep -

A good night's sleep helps your skin look its best. Lack of sleep makes the skin dull and pale with under-eye circles. Make sure you get optimum rest.

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Not knowing what you're putting on your skin -

It's best to educate yourself so you properly know what you're putting on your skin. Read up on ingredients and learn about what you are applying. Also, know that price doesn’t always determine quality.

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Drying out your skin -

People with acne or the occasional pimple think they need to dry out their skin, and end up choosing products that are too harsh. However, this actually causes further irritation than the breakout itself. Even when choosing a treatment that targets the concern, it's still important to finish with a soothing and hydrating moisturizer.

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Not moisturizing your skin -

Regardless of your skin type, it’s important that you moisturize daily and apply a heavier cream at night. And, yes, this includes people with oily skin.

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Ignoring your neck -

Whatever you do to your face, do it to your neck as well. The neck is a delicate and exposed area, and neglecting it can cause premature aging. When you cleanse and moisturize your neck, work your products gently in an upward motion.

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Not separating body and face towel -

Make sure you have a separate towel for both body and face. Just like the pillow cover, the towel touches your face frequently, and it’s important to keep it clean from bacteria and dirt.

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Picking your face -

Anytime you pick or pull at your skin, you're causing damage and creating irritation, scars, and wrinkles. So just stop!

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Taking showers that are too hot -

Hot showers are very problematic for your skin. They can strip your skin of essential moisture and healthy oils. Instead, take a warm shower.

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Wearing makeup when you work out -

Wearing makeup while working out will clog your pores and cause acne. Instead, remove your makeup, and give your face a chance to breathe while you sweat out any impurities.

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Storing your product improperly -

You don't need a separate mini fridge for all your skincare, but you shouldn't keep your products anywhere too warm or too moist either. Pay particular attention to active ingredients like vitamin C, prescription retinol, antioxidants, and UV filters.

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Loading your skin with products at night -

Less is more, even with it comes to skincare. After a normal cleansing routine, applying two or three different serums isn’t effective at all. All topical products are effective up to 0.3% absorption, so the more you add, the less effective they'll be. Instead, it's better to alternate the serums.

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Blindly following trends -

Frequently buying the latest new product might not just harm your pocket, but also your skin. Before buying something, ask yourself if your skin needs it.

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Blindly following skincare DIYs -

While DIY recipes are a great way to save some money on skincare products, don’t trust them blindly. Some ingredients, like lemon, can be too harsh on your skin. Instead, use proper products formulated to suit your skin’s needs.

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Wearing your hair too tightly -

You might not consider your scalp part of your skin, but it is. If you’re not careful with how you’re styling your hair, you could cause hair and scalp damage, potentially leading to permanent hair loss. Scalp trauma from the tension causes alopecia, as well as inflammation in the scalp.

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Letting products go stale -

Skincare products don't last forever. Pay attention to their expiration date, especially if the product has been opened and exposed to light or oxygen.

Sources: (GQ) (Bustle) 

See also: How to repair your skin barrier for a luminous complexion 

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