We all want that healthy, glowing skin, but sometimes our routines are unintentionally working against us. Here are five common skincare mistakes that might be holding your skin back, and how to make quick fixes for real results.

1: Applying moisturizer directly on dry skin

“Think of your skin like a sponge—when it’s damp, products absorb and penetrate better,”

One of the most common skincare mistakes is applying moisturizer to dry skin, which reduces its effectiveness. To get the most out of your moisturizer, apply a toner, serum, or even just a splash of water first. This damp surface lets the moisturizer lock in more hydration, giving your skin that fresh, dewy look and helping to avoid one of the common skincare mistakes people make.

2: Common skincare mistakes: skipping facial oils if you have oily or acne-prone skin

Clients with oily or breakout-prone skin are often afraid oils will make them break out.

Oils can provide essential hydration and balance, even for acne-prone skin, as long as you pick the right ones. For instance:

• Rosehip oil: ideal for calming inflamed, acne-prone skin.

• Squalane, this oil boosts moisture without clogging pores or triggering breakouts.

  
  

3: Using Retinol incorrectly

One of the most common skincare mistakes is misusing retinol, a powerful anti-aging ingredient. While retinol helps with everything from acne to fine lines, it can cause irritation if not introduced slowly. Many people start using it too frequently or combine it with other strong ingredients, leading to redness and dryness. Here’s how to ease it into your routine:

• Go “low and slow.” Begin with retinol just once a week, gradually adding a day each week to let your skin acclimate.

• Avoid harsh combinations. Steer clear of layering retinol with other strong ingredients like exfoliants or Vitamin C in the same routine to prevent irritation.

• Stay hydrated. Moisturize day and night, and consider adding a hyaluronic acid serum to keep skin hydrated while retinol works its wonders.

  
  

4. Over-exfoliating

Exfoliation is essential for removing dead skin cells and revealing a brighter complexion, but overdoing it can damage the skin barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and breakouts. Many people use physical scrubs or strong acids too frequently, thinking it will speed up results.

Limit exfoliation to 1-2 times a week.

5: Striving for “poreless” skin

Pore size is largely genetic, and though they may look larger with age and sun exposure, they can’t actually shrink. And that’s perfectly okay! The glass-skin look you see on social media is usually the result of retouching.

Embrace your skin’s natural texture and focus on keeping it healthy and glowing instead.