Skincare can feel like a never-ending science experiment, and let’s be real—most of us have made some rookie mistakes along the way. Whether you’re layering products like it’s a seven-layer dip or skipping steps altogether, these common skincare missteps might be holding your glow back. Don’t worry, though—I’ve got the fixes to get your skin back on track.

1. Over-Exfoliating (a.k.a. Sandpaper Skin Syndrome)

The Mistake: Scrubbing your face like you’re cleaning a dirty dish. Whether it’s physical scrubs or overusing exfoliating acids, too much exfoliation strips your skin barrier, leaving you with redness, irritation, and more breakouts.

The Fix: Exfoliate 2–3 times a week max and choose gentle options like chemical exfoliants with AHAs or BHAs. Look for ingredients like lactic acid or salicylic acid, and always follow up with moisturizer to keep your skin barrier happy.

2. Skipping Sunscreen (Yes, Even Indoors)

The Mistake: Thinking you don’t need SPF because it’s cloudy, you’re working from home, or you “just don’t burn.” UV rays are sneaky and can cause premature aging and hyperpigmentation—even through windows.

The Fix: Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every single day, rain or shine. Opt for lightweight, non-greasy formulas if you’re worried about texture. Bonus points if you reapply midday with a powder or spray SPF for convenience.

3. Ignoring Your Neck and Hands

The Mistake: Babying your face while completely neglecting your neck and hands. These areas are just as exposed to environmental damage and are often the first to show signs of aging.

The Fix: Treat your neck and hands like an extension of your face. Apply your skincare products—especially sunscreen and moisturizers—down to your décolletage and onto the backs of your hands. They’ll thank you later.

4. Mixing Ingredients That Don’t Get Along

The Mistake: Playing DIY chemist without realizing some ingredients clash worse than your high school group project partners. Using retinol and vitamin C together? That’s a recipe for irritation.

The Fix: Learn which ingredients pair well. For example:

• Use retinol at night and vitamin C in the morning.

• Avoid layering multiple actives (like AHAs and BHAs together).

• Stick to one active ingredient per routine if you’re unsure.

5. Switching Products Too Quickly

The Mistake: Expecting miracles overnight and jumping from one product to another when you don’t see immediate results. Good skincare takes time, and constantly switching products can throw your skin into chaos.

The Fix: Be patient! Give new products 4–6 weeks to show results. Consistency is key, so stick to your routine and avoid introducing too many new products at once.

The Bottom Line

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a world of difference. Treat your skin with love, wear your SPF like it’s your job, and remember—glow-ups don’t happen overnight.

Got a favorite skincare tip? Drop it in the comments below—your skin-savvy friends will thank you!