Top Skincare Mistakes To Avoid

On the JJ Barnes Blog, social media is flooded with advice to achieve healthy skin, but what can you trust? I’m checking out the top skincare mistakes to avoid for a healthier look.

With skincare advice flooding social media platforms like TikTok, it’s easy to fall into the trap of following trends or tips from unverified sources. However, not all skincare hacks are created equal, and some can do more harm than good. Partnering with insights from Northerner  and Dr. Ross Perry, Medical Director of Cosmedics skin clinics, I’m diving into the most common skincare mistakes, how to fix them, and practical advice to help you achieve radiant, healthy skin.

Top Skincare Mistakes To Avoid

A surprising number of people—especially younger adults—are unsure about the ingredients in their skincare products, with 26% of 18-34-year-olds admitting they don’t know what’s in their bottles and jars. This confusion contributes to a staggering £1 billion worth of wasted skincare products in the UK alone. To avoid adding to this statistic, let’s explore the habits and myths that could be sabotaging your skin and how to correct them.

1. Over-Exfoliating: Less Is More

Exfoliating is a fantastic way to remove dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion, but overdoing it can weaken your skin’s protective barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and dryness. Stick to chemical exfoliants like AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or BHAs (Beta Hydroxy Acids) 2-3 times a week, depending on your skin’s sensitivity. After exfoliating, always follow up with a rich moisturiser to lock in hydration and support your skin barrier.

Tip: Signs of over-exfoliation include tightness, redness, or flakiness. If your skin feels sensitive, scale back and give it time to recover.

2. Skipping Sunscreen: A Recipe for Premature Aging

One of the biggest skincare mistakes is skipping sunscreen. Sun exposure is responsible for up to 90% of visible skin aging, including wrinkles, sagging, and uneven skin tone. It also increases the risk of hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and even skin cancer. UV rays penetrate clouds, so daily SPF application is non-negotiable, even on overcast days.

Tip: Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and apply it as the last step in your morning routine. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for extended periods.

3. Misusing Key Ingredients

Certain skincare ingredients are powerhouses when used correctly but can backfire if mishandled. For example:

• Vitamin C: This antioxidant brightens skin and fights free radicals but becomes inactive if exposed to sunlight or paired with incompatible ingredients like retinol. Store it in a dark, cool place and use it in the morning before sunscreen.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Known for boosting hydration, it must be applied to damp skin and sealed with a moisturiser. Applying it to dry skin can pull moisture out, leaving your skin parched.
• Face Oils: These are not a substitute for moisturiser. Oils add nourishment but don’t lock in hydration, so always layer them over a moisturiser.
• Clay Masks: Great for absorbing excess oil, but overuse (more than once or twice a week) or leaving them on too long can strip your skin, causing dryness and irritation.

Tip: Read product labels carefully and follow instructions to maximise benefits and avoid irritation.

4. Not Removing Makeup Properly

Falling asleep with makeup on is a skincare sin that clogs pores, leading to breakouts, blackheads, and dullness. Leftover makeup and environmental pollutants can also break down collagen, accelerating aging and causing dryness. Double-cleansing—using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one—ensures your skin is thoroughly clean.

Tip: Invest in a gentle micellar water or cleansing balm for easy makeup removal, and always follow with a hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping your skin.

5. Neglecting Hydration and Diet

Healthy skin starts from within. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants (think berries, leafy greens, and nuts), healthy fats (like avocados and salmon), and vitamins supports collagen production and reduces inflammation. Hydration is equally vital—drinking enough water keeps your skin plump, smooth, and glowing while flushing out toxins. Dehydration can lead to dryness, fine lines, and a lacklustre complexion.

Tip: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, and incorporate hydrating foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges into your diet.

6. Dirty Pillowcases and Phones: Hidden Culprits

Your pillowcase and phone are breeding grounds for bacteria and oil, which can transfer to your skin and cause breakouts. Change your pillowcase at least once a week (more often if you have oily or acne-prone skin), and clean your phone daily with a disinfectant wipe. Avoid touching your face throughout the day to minimise irritation.

Tip: Use speakerphone or headphones during calls to keep your phone away from your face, and opt for silk or satin pillowcases to reduce friction and oil buildup.

7. Skincare Myths to Ditch

Social media is rife with skincare myths that can harm your skin. Here are a few to steer clear of:

• “Natural products are always safe”: Ingredients like lemon juice or peppermint can irritate sensitive skin. Always patch-test new products.
• “Tanning clears acne”: While it may temporarily mask acne, tanning causes long-term damage, including more breakouts and an increased risk of skin cancer.
• “Oily skin doesn’t need moisturiser”: Skipping moisturiser can trick your skin into producing more oil, worsening shine and breakouts. Opt for lightweight, oil-free formulas designed for oily skin.
• “Expensive products are better”: Affordable products with proven ingredients like niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, or salicylic acid can be just as effective as high-end ones.

Tip: Focus on your skin’s needs rather than trends or price tags. Consult a dermatologist for personalised advice if you’re unsure.

8. Stress and Sleep: The Silent Skin Saboteurs

Chronic stress and lack of sleep wreak havoc on your skin. Stress boosts oil production, leading to breakouts and inflammation, while poor sleep hinders skin regeneration, causing dullness, dryness, and under-eye bags. Prioritising self-care can make a big difference.

Tip: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep nightly and practice stress-reducing activities like meditation, yoga, or journaling to keep your skin (and mind) in top shape.

9. Do Spot Stickers Really Work?

Spot stickers have become a popular quick fix for blemishes, and they do have benefits. These patches absorb bacteria and oil from pimples, protect the area from picking, and often contain exfoliating ingredients like AHAs or BHAs to speed up healing. While they won’t make a spot disappear instantly, they can reduce inflammation and promote faster recovery.

Tip: Apply a spot sticker overnight to a clean, dry pimple for best results, and avoid using them on open wounds.

One Simple Change for Better Skin

If you’re looking for an easy way to improve your skin health today, start by drinking more water. Proper hydration keeps your skin plump, reduces fine lines, and gives you that coveted glow. Carry a reusable water bottle to remind yourself to sip throughout the day.

Final Thoughts: Build a Skincare Routine That Works

Achieving healthy, glowing skin doesn’t require a cabinet full of products or following every TikTok trend. Instead, focus on the basics: wear sunscreen daily, exfoliate moderately, use ingredients correctly, and prioritise hydration and a balanced lifestyle. By avoiding these common skincare mistakes and tailoring your routine to your skin’s needs, you’ll be well on your way to a radiant complexion.

Have questions about your skincare routine? Drop them in the comments below, or consult a dermatologist for personalised advice. Let’s glow smarter, not harder!

Disclaimer: Always consult a skincare professional before making significant changes to your routine, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.