Mistakes To Avoid When Tailoring Your Skincare Routine

Cleansing is the foundation of any skin care routine. It helps in removing dirt, oil and other impurities. However, over cleansing can strip away the skin’s natural oils leaving our skin feeling dry, tight and irritated. It can also disrupt the skin’s moisture barrier which helps retain moisture and protects against environmental aggressors. Hence, stick to cleansing your face twice a day, in the morning and evening.  

If you’re looking for a hydrating cleanser for summer skin care routine, try out St. Ives Hydrating Watermelon Daily Cleanser. Made with 100% natural watermelon extracts, the cleanser removes impurities and product buildup from the skin’s surface, leaving it refreshed and glowing. 

2. Skipping Sunscreen 

One of the biggest skin care mistakes is to avoid sunscreen. Applying sunscreen is a holy grail step in a skin care routine for all skin types. The sun’s UV rays are a significant contributor to premature ageing of the skin, dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles. By not using sunscreen, skin’s natural defence mechanism against UV radiation is weakened, making it susceptible to the negative effects of free radicals.  

For hot Indian weather, choose lightweight and non-sticky Lakme Sun Expert SPF 50 +++ Ultra Matte Lotion, suitable for all skin types. SPF 50 blocks up to 97% harmful rays and niacinamide helps reduce pigmentation.  

3. Over-Exfoliating 

Moderate exfoliation helps remove dead skin cells by replacing it with new skin cells. But overdoing it can damage skin. Harsh and rigorous exfoliants can cause irritation and inflammation on the skin resulting in redness, itching or burning sensation. Over exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s natural moisture balance leading to excessive dryness and dehydration. Limit exfoliation to one to two times a week.   

4. Applying Makeup in Wrong Order 

It may seem like a minute detail to pay attention to, but believe it or not, how you apply your skin care products matters. It is ideal to layer the products from thinnest to thickest. Applying products out of order may hinder their effectiveness. If you apply a thick creamy moisturiser, before water-based serum, this will create a barrier that prevents the serum’s active ingredients from penetrating into the skin. Skin care products are often layered to target different concerns and provide multiple benefits. 

Incorporating a serum in your skin care routine is non-negotiable. Serums contain higher amounts of active ingredients that benefit our dry skin. To add radiance to the skin, we suggest using Lakme Absolute Perfect Radiance Serum. This lightweight, non-sticky serum improves uneven skin tone and moisturises and nourishes the skin from within. It comprises of 98% pure niacinamide that brightens the skin. It is also enriched with tri-vitamin complex comprising of vitamin A, C and E which helps even out the skin tone.  

5. Sleeping with Makeup On  

Makeup contains fragrances, preservatives and dyes which can irritate the skin if left over night. Heavy makeup products can clog your pores leading to breakouts and blackheads. During sleep, skin undergoes a natural process of repair. Leaving makeup on can interfere with the process, resulting in dull, lustreless and uneven skin texture.  

6. Not Moisturising After Cleansing 

After cleansing, the skin always feels dry and tight. Hot water and harsh cleansers can further aggravate this feeling. This is where moisturising after shower plays a key role. Moisturising immediately after cleansing prevents dryness, irritation and itchiness. Moisturisation helps maintain the skin’s elasticity and suppleness. Insufficient moisturisation results in uneven skin texture.   

7. Using Harsh Ingredients 

Skincare products containing ingredients such as sulphates, parabens, mineral oil, silicones and synthetic fragrances can clog pores and cause skin irritation. Sulphates and certain alcohols can have drying effects on the skin. Harsh ingredients can trigger allergic reactions for individuals with sensitive skin. Choose skin care products made from natural ingredients.    

FAQs about Mistakes to Avoid when Tailoring Your Skincare Routine 

Q1. Can oily skin skip moisturiser? 

A. No. There is a common skin care misconception that oily skin doesn’t require moisturiser. When oily skin lacks hydration, it may produce even more oil to compensate for dryness. Using a lightweight, oil-free moisturiser can provide adequate hydration to the skin and help regulate oil control.  

Q2. Do neck and hands require skin care too? 

A. Yes. Your neck and hands can show signs of ageing too. Extend your skin care routine to those areas by applying moisturiser and sunscreen to keep them hydrated and protected.  

Q3. What are the basic skin care routine steps? 

A. Basic skin care routine starts with cleansing, followed by toning, target treatments using serums, moisturising and finishing with a sunscreen.  

Consistency is key in maintaining a skin care routine, and it’s important to choose products suitable for your skin type. If you’re not sure of what skin care products to apply on your skin, consult a dermatologist or a skin care professional for personalised recommendations.