Top 7 Skin Care Mistakes People Make

One of the main questions our leading NYC dermatologists get asked is, "How can I take better care of my skin?" It’s hard to meet a person who doesn’t care how their skin looks. Healthy, luminous, youthful, hydrated, acne and blemish-free skin can make up for many “flaws” while bad skin can make you feel down regardless of your other qualities. In short - skin matters.

It isn’t surprising that people started to pay much more attention to skincare in recent years. There are so many new procedures and skincare products at our disposal, and that is truly beneficial. However, many people aren’t sure which products to use and how to properly take care of their skin.

Since everyone’s skin is unique, both men and women have unique needs. Still, there are some things the majority of us should avoid in order to achieve healthy, glowing skin. We present you a list of top 7 mistakes people make with skin care:

1. Not Exfoliating Enough / Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliation is one of the best things you can do for your skin. The process helps get rid of the dry/dead skin cells on the surface of your skin, leaving it rejuvenated and soft. In addition, exfoliation will unclog your pores and make moisturizing products more effective. This also enhances the cosmetic appearance of your skin.

However, you shouldn’t overdo it. Depending on your skin type, you should first choose an appropriate exfoliator. Secondly, make sure that you aren’t exfoliating more than two or three times a week. Over-exfoliating leads to skin damage; without a protective layer, your skin is susceptible to sun damage and other external factors.

2. Not Wearing Sunscreen Regularly

We cannot stress enough how important sunscreen is. Although you might not notice it now, the sun has a major effect on your skin. If you avoid putting sunscreen on, you will definitely see the consequences in years to come. Therefore, to avoid irreversible damage in a couple of years, be sure to use sunscreen regularly, even on cloudy days. Also, don’t forget to put it on your neck.

3. Changing Your Entire Skin Routine

When something goes wrong, and our skin starts to deteriorate, we often hurry and change all the products we use. That isn’t such a great idea, though. If you change everything at once, you can’t be sure what is working and what isn’t. Finding the perfect combination of products can take time, so be patient.

4. Picking at Your Skin

This is a well-known problem; yet, people can’t seem to help themselves. Before you start digging into your skin next time, remember that you will do more harm than good. Picking at your skin will result in irritation, wrinkles, and scars.

Additional Skin Care Tips

5. Not Knowing Your Skin Type

In order to pick the products that work with your skin and give satisfying results, you have to know your skin type. Without this knowledge, you will just make shots in the dark. Don’t buy a product only because a friend said it was great or because it is popular. Your skin is unique. There isn’t one perfect product for everyone.

Also, note that your skin might change over the years. If a certain product did wonders for you in the past, it doesn’t mean that it will work forever. Observe, listen to your skin, and give it what it needs.

6. Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is essential for our well-being; that includes skin. Without proper sleeping habits, your skin will quickly become pale and dull, with under-eye dark circles. Furthermore, you will start noticing wrinkles much sooner if you are repeatedly sleep-deprived.

7. Avoiding Visiting a Dermatologist

Finally, you shouldn’t be afraid or ashamed to talk to a specialist about your skin problems. No problem is too small or too big; everything can and should be managed. If you feel like you don’t know what you are doing, or like you have tried everything and nothing works, don’t hesitate to ask for professional help.

Our skin care experts, aestheticians, and board-certified dermatologists in Midtown are here to help you with all of your skin care issues. Please contact us through our website or give us a call at (212) 444-8204 to schedule a free appointment.