Are you sabotaging your skin without realizing it? Cleanse your routine of these common missteps and get ready to glow.
You may follow all the skin care commandments — such as using face wash and applying moisturizer — but those bright, smooth results you’re after just won’t show. Or, worse, you might be damaging your skin in the process.
That’s because all skin care routines are not made equal. Depending on your skin type and concerns, you may need certain formulas and ingredients. Here’s what might be getting in the way of your best skin.
Mistake No. 1: not targeting your skin type
The first key to a good at-home skin care routine: knowing (and treating) your specific skin type. The wrong formulas can wreak havoc on your skin. If you have dry skin, then rich, hydrating products are essential. If you’re on the oily side, opt for gentle, oil-free formulas, especially when you’re cleansing.
“Always use a gentle cleanser, since harsh soaps can trigger the skin to increase oil production,” said April Armstrong, MD, associate professor of clinical medicine and vice chair of clinical research in the Department of Dermatology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC. She is also a dermatologist at Keck Medicine of USC.
Mistake No. 2: not exfoliating on a regular basis
Exfoliation can work wonders. It removes dead skin cells, which otherwise can pile up and lead to a dull complexion. Exfoliating also can unclog pores, brighten your appearance, reduce hyperpigmentation (patchy, darker areas) and give your skin a smoother texture.
