Perfect skin doesn’t happen overnight. Even if you’re an enthusiast, you might be guilty of a few common skincare mistakes without even realising it.
Here are six skincare slip-ups that could be holding you back, plus solutions to get your glow game back on track.
No. 1: Skipping Sunscreen
If there’s one rule to live by, it’s this: Never skip sunscreen! UV rays are sneaky – they age your skin, cause hyperpigmentation, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Yes, even on cloudy days.
✔️ Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily!
Recommended Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 50
Lightweight and dermatologist approved.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
Invisible, perfect under makeup.
CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30
Gentle and great for sensitive skin.
Did you know that you can use an SPF moisturiser. Take a look at our article on selecting the right SPF moisturiser for your skin type.
No. 2: Over-Exfoliating
That satisfying scrub? It could be doing more harm than good. Over-exfoliating can leave your skin irritated, dry, and vulnerable.
✔️ 1 to 2 gentle exfoliations per week with a gentle product suited to your skin.
Recommended Exfoliants
Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant
Gentle enough for regular use.
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant
A cult favourite for clearer, smoother skin.
The Ordinary Glycolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Affordable and effective for brightening.
No. 3: Using the Wrong Products
Not all skincare products are created equal. Using the wrong ones can lead to dryness, oiliness, or breakouts.
✔️ Learn your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive) and choose products tailored to your needs.
No. 4: Ignoring Your Skin Barrier
Your skin’s barrier is like its natural defence system, treat it kindly. A common skincare mistake is to use harsh cleansers and overuse of products that can strip away protective oils, leaving your skin vulnerable.
✔️ Focus on hydrating, soothing products that repair and strengthen your skin barrier.
Recommended Cleansers
Stratia Liquid Gold
Designed to strengthen and repair the barrier.
CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser
Ceramide rich for barrier repair.
Bioderma Sensibio AR Cream
Soothes redness while supporting your skin.
No. 5: Sleeping with Makeup On
We get it—sometimes you’re too tired to care. But sleeping with makeup on traps dirt and oil, blocking your skin’s chance to breathe and repair itself.
✔️ A good cleansing routine before bed is non-negotiable. Micellar water, cleansing balm, or a gentle face wash.
Recommended Makeup Cleanser
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
Trusted for even heavy makeup days.
Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm
Melts away makeup effortlessly.
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water
A classic for gentle makeup removal.
No. 6: Not Moisturising
Even oily skin needs hydration! One of the common skincare mistakes is neglecting hydration, which can cause your skin to overproduce oil to compensate, leaving you shiny and dehydrated. Hydration is key to maintaining elasticity and overall skin health. We also have a great guide on selecting the right moisturiser.
✔️ Use a moisturiser daily, even if it’s lightweight and oil-free. Consistency is key.
Recommended Moisturisers
For All Skin Types
CeraVe Moisturising Cream
A budget-friendly staple.
For Oily Skin
Belif The True Cream Aqua Bomb
Lightweight and refreshing.
For Dry Skin
Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream
Rich and ultra-nourishing.
Interested in more? Take a look at our post on The Korean Skincare Routine: A 10-Step Breakdown