There are a lot of preconceived notions about skin care that get passes around. Noticing this, we’ve collected what we think are the 5 biggest mistakes people make while trying to take care of their skin.
1. Don’t be so aggressive. How many times have you sought out a new skincare treatment in preparation for a big event? Skin needs to be eased onto new products. Using new products too aggressively can be extremely irritating to skin. Approach skin treatments the way you approach exercise: Use only one new product at a time until you’re sure you are not reacting negatively to it.
2. Use a retinoid. Many anti-aging skin treatments are only capable of preventing new wrinkles. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is the only topical ingredient proven not only to prevent but also to minimize the fine lines and wrinkles you already have.
3. Watch expiration dates. Most skin care products will lose their potency after repeated exposure to light or air. Vitamin C, retinol, glycolic acid and hydroquinone are some of the best and most effective ingredients, yet all of them are particularly vulnerable. Airtight, opaque packaging helps, but it’s not fail-safe. If you notice that the skincare you are using has a funny smell or has a different consistency, it is probably past its expiration date.
4. Wash your face at the right time. Always wash your face after you rinse out your hair products and conditioner in the shower, never before. Many conditioners contain ingredients that will clog your pores. Other hair products often contain acne-causing ingredients that you don’t want to leave on your skin.
5. Use sunscreen daily. Not just for your trip to the beach, every day! Incidental sun exposure typically accounts for more of our lifetime exposure to ultraviolet rays than typical days at the beach. Walking to and from your car, going for a walk in the park, or sitting outside for a few minutes all add up. An easy way to make sure you’re covered every day is to find a moisturizer or foundation with SPF.
