We all know the thrill of discovering a new skincare product or routine that promises glowing, youthful skin.
But sometimes, in our excitement, we might accidentally adopt habits that do more harm than good.
I’ve been there, too—standing in front of the bathroom mirror, wondering if my quest for a bright complexion was actually backfiring.
Over the years, I’ve learned that skincare mistakes often happen when we’re trying a bit too hard.
Maybe we’ve heard a trend on social media or snagged a tip from a friend who swears by it. Whatever the case, it’s easy to go off track.
If you’ve got a few questionable steps in your regimen, don’t worry—you’re not alone.
Below, I’m breaking down seven things that dermatologists and skincare pros often warn against. Let’s dive right in.
1. Over-exfoliating your skin
Exfoliation helps keep our complexions smooth and fresh, but there really is such a thing as too much of a good thing.
I learned this the hard way when I bought a new scrub that promised “instant radiance” and used it practically every night.
After a couple of weeks, my face felt irritated and raw instead of glowing.
It turns out that your skin needs time to regenerate, and constant scrubbing can lead to micro-tears, dryness, and even breakouts.
Skincare experts emphasize that over-exfoliation breaks down your skin’s protective barrier, leaving it vulnerable to bacteria and inflammation.
A gentle approach is best—exfoliate once or twice a week, and pay attention to how your skin responds.
If you’re seeing redness or sensitivity, dial it back. Less can definitely be more when it comes to sloughing off dead skin cells.
2. Using harsh physical scrubs
Speaking of exfoliation, there’s a difference between a mild exfoliant and a harsh physical scrub.
Think large particles of walnut shell or other gritty ingredients that can leave your skin feeling like it just went through sandpaper.
While these scrubs may seem effective at first because they make your face feel super smooth, they can be more damaging in the long run—especially if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone.
According to the folks at Skinlab, abrasive physical scrubs can contribute to increased redness, irritation, and even tiny abrasions.
A good rule of thumb? If it feels rough to the touch or you see visible scratch-like marks, it’s probably too abrasive for your face.
Consider switching to a gentle chemical exfoliant with alpha or beta hydroxy acids (AHAs or BHAs) if you want that polished look without the risk of scratching your skin.
3. Neglecting moisturizer because you think you have “oily skin”
I used to think that because I had a bit of shine on my T-zone, moisturizer was my enemy. It felt like applying any cream would make my face an oil slick by midday.
The reality? Skipping moisturizer altogether can actually encourage your skin to produce even more oil to compensate for the dryness.
So ironically, not using moisturizer can cause the very problem you’re trying to solve.
This idea is backed by experts at the American Academy of Dermatology, who have emphasized that even oily skin needs hydration, just in a more balanced way.
If you’re worried about adding moisture to an already shiny face, opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic formula. You’ll be surprised how much a well-chosen product can stabilize your skin’s oil production and reduce that excess shine over time.
4. Picking at or popping pimples
Resisting the urge to pop a pimple is one of the hardest forms of self-control out there.
It can be so tempting, especially when a whitehead is staring right back at you in the mirror.
But trust me, picking at your breakouts can lead to scarring, slow down the healing process, and spread bacteria around your face.
I used to do this in my teens and ended up with a couple of small scars that still annoy me to this day.
Let pimples run their course or use a spot treatment with proven ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
If a blemish is particularly stubborn, consult a professional for safe extraction. It’s far better than risking an infection or winding up with a lasting mark.
5. Sleeping in your makeup
It’s late, you’re exhausted, and washing your face feels like a monumental task.
I get it—I’ve been there after a long day of juggling work, parenthood, and everything in between.
But here’s the deal: going to bed with makeup still on can clog your pores, trap bacteria, and lead to an outbreak of unwelcome surprises the next morning.
Plus, mascara and eyeliner left on overnight can irritate your eyes and cause brittle lashes.
Dermatologists always emphasize that our skin regenerates while we sleep, and removing makeup is essential to support that process.
A quick, fuss-free cleansing routine—even if it’s just micellar water or gentle makeup wipes followed by a light face wash—can go a long way toward keeping your skin clear and healthy.
Dedicate those few minutes to a proper cleanse before hitting the pillow—you’ll thank yourself in the morning.
6. Layering every new product you come across
I’m guilty of this one. Whenever I hear about a new serum or “must-have” essence, my first instinct is to add it to my already overflowing routine.
But layering too many products can overwhelm your skin, leading to irritation or simply making it harder to see which product is doing what.
Sometimes, your skin just needs a simpler regimen—cleanser, targeted treatments (if needed), moisturizer, and sunscreen.
When you try every trending product at once, it’s tough to spot what’s really working (and which products are basically filler in your lineup).
If you want to introduce something new, do so gradually.
Give each product time to show results—usually at least a few weeks—before adding another.
It’ll keep your regimen both effective and wallet-friendly.
7. Skipping sunscreen (even when it’s not sunny)
Last but definitely not least, forgetting to wear sunscreen is a big no-no in the world of skincare.
I used to think SPF was reserved for beach days or summers abroad, but the truth is that harmful UV rays can still reach your skin on cloudy, overcast days.
Even when you’re running errands or just driving around, you’re exposing your face, neck, and hands to potential sun damage.
Sun damage doesn’t just mean sunburn—it also contributes to premature wrinkles, dark spots, and an overall dull appearance.
Research even shows that about 80% of visible aging is due to unprotected sun exposure. That’s how much of an impact it makes.
So make it a habit to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. Trust me, your future self will be so grateful that you took that extra step.
Wrapping up
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but it does require a few mindful choices.
If you see yourself in any of the habits I’ve mentioned, there’s no need to panic—plenty of us have slipped up here and there.
The key is to course-correct now that you know better.
Remember, skincare is a form of self-care. Treat it as a way to nurture and respect your skin rather than an endless list of to-dos or don’ts.
With the right approach—and a little less pressure—you’ll see just how rewarding a simple, consistent routine can be.
Here’s to putting our best face forward, every single day.
