Common Skincare Mistakes You Might Be Making (And How to Fix Them)

Let’s face it — skincare can be confusing. Between influencer tips, trending routines, and ingredient overload, it’s easy to unknowingly sabotage your own skin. If your routine feels off or your skin isn’t improving, the problem might not be what you’re using — but how you’re using it.

Here’s a deep dive into the most common skincare mistakes (yes, even the ones we all make), plus expert-backed solutions to help you reset, refresh, and get that healthy glow back — naturally.

1. Over-Cleansing or Using the Wrong Cleanser

We get it — nothing feels more satisfying than a fresh, squeaky-clean face. But cleansing too often or with harsh foaming cleansers can strip your skin’s protective barrier, leading to irritation, breakouts, or chronic dryness.

🔍 Why it matters: Over-cleansing disrupts the microbiome and increases trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), making your skin more vulnerable to environmental stressors.

✅ How to fix it: Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser twice a day (or once at night for dry/sensitive skin). Avoid sulfates and opt for ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or oat extract.

2. Skipping Sunscreen — Even Indoors

If sunscreen isn’t part of your daily ritual, this is your sign to change that. UV rays don’t take days off, and neither should your SPF.

🔍 Why it matters: UVA rays penetrate windows, damaging collagen and accelerating aging. Blue light from screens may also affect skin tone.

✅ How to fix it: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning — even if you're working from home. Reapply every 2–3 hours when outside.

🌿 Try: Round Lab Birch Juice Mild-Up Sunscreen SPF50+, a non-toxic, reef-safe option available via dealaha.com.

3. Layering Skincare in the Wrong Order

Serum first or moisturizer first? Actives before or after toner? Product order does matter.

🔍 Why it matters: Applying products out of order can reduce their absorption, or worse, cause irritation when actives are layered improperly.

✅ How to fix it: Follow this rule of thumb:

• Cleanser

• Toner or essence

• Serum

• Moisturizer

• Sunscreen (AM only)

At night, actives like retinol go after serums, before moisturizer.

4. Overusing Actives (Retinol, Acids, Vitamin C)

More is not always better. Overloading your routine with too many actives can compromise your skin barrier.

🔍 Why it matters: Mixing AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids can cause redness, flakiness, or “purging” that lasts longer than necessary.

✅ How to fix it: Introduce one active ingredient at a time, 2–3x per week. Always patch-test, and don’t forget to moisturize and wear SPF.

🌿 Clean Picks:

• Mukti Vitamin C Elixir (Brightening + soothing botanicals)

• Cliganic Organic Rosehip Oil (Gentle retinoid alternative)

5. Ignoring the Neck, Chest & Hands

Skincare shouldn’t stop at your jawline. The neck, chest, and hands are the first areas to show signs of aging.

🔍 Why it matters: These zones have thinner skin and fewer oil glands, making them prone to wrinkling and sun damage.

✅ How to fix it: Extend all steps — especially SPF and moisturizer — to your neck and décolleté. Consider investing in a nourishing hand cream as well.

6. Not Moisturizing Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Think oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer? Think again. Dehydrated oily skin often produces more oil to compensate.

🔍 Why it matters: Lack of hydration can lead to clogged pores, inflammation, and breakouts.

✅ How to fix it: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer with ingredients like squalane, green tea, or hyaluronic acid.

🌿 Try: APIEU Madecassoside Moisture Gel Cream, packed with calming botanicals and perfect for combo skin.

7. Switching Products Too Often

Constantly trying new products can prevent your skin from adapting or rebalancing.

🔍 Why it matters: Skincare takes time. Most actives need at least 4–6 weeks to show visible results.

✅ How to fix it: Give products time before switching. Stick to a routine for at least one full skin cycle (28 days) before evaluating its effectiveness.

Bonus Mistake: Believing More Expensive = Better

Price doesn’t always equal performance. Some luxury brands are full of fragrance, alcohol, or synthetic fillers.

✅ Smarter choice: Look for transparent ingredient lists, clinical testing, and eco-certifications. Many clean, effective brands are affordable and available via trusted marketplaces like Dealaha.com.

Final Thoughts: Skin Wins With Smarter Habits

Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated — just consistent and thoughtful. Avoiding these common mistakes can help your products work harder, your skin glow brighter, and your confidence shine through.

💚 Looking for a skin reset? Explore our clean, vegan, and organic skincare favorites at Dealaha.com