Even though we carefully take care of our facial skin, many people still find that their skin doesn’t become as clear or radiant as they expect. Instead of focusing on healthy daily habits and proper nutrition, we often end up buying and trying various expensive local and international skincare products, hoping for better results. Unfortunately, this doesn’t always deliver the outcome we want, which means it’s time to reflect on where things might be going wrong.

Nowadays, when it comes to beauty and makeup, having healthy and glowing natural skin is the most important foundation before applying makeup and other beauty products. That’s why practicing the right skincare methods and avoiding common mistakes we unknowingly make is essential for truly healthy skin. So, regardless of gender, let’s take a look at the most common skincare mistakes and learn how to avoid them together in this article.

1. Over-Exfoliating

Scrubbing or exfoliating your face too often, or using strong chemical exfoliants daily, can irritate and damage the skin. Excessive rubbing strips away the skin’s natural oil barrier, weakening its protective layer. As a result, the skin becomes more vulnerable to bacteria and environmental pollution, leading to frequent redness and unnecessary breakouts. To prevent this, exfoliating more than once or twice a week should be avoided.

2. Not Using Sunscreen

Sunscreen is not only necessary when going outdoors, it should also be applied indoors and at the workplace. This is because ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate through windows and damage the skin. UVA rays, in particular, are present all year round and are a major cause of wrinkles and pigmentation. Without daily sunscreen use, even the most expensive anti-aging products will struggle to repair sun damage caused by indoor exposure. Therefore, applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ every morning, even when staying indoors, is essential.

3. Not Cleaning Your Phone Screen

Bacteria on your phone screen can transfer to your cheeks during phone calls, causing breakouts. This is a common habit many people overlook. Since phones are handled after touching various surfaces throughout the day, they become breeding grounds for germs. Direct contact between these bacteria and your skin can gradually lead to inflammation and clogged pores, which can be difficult to treat. That’s why it’s important to disinfect your phone screen at least once a day.

4. Washing Your Face with Hot Water

While hot showers may feel relaxing, hot water strips away the skin’s natural oils and causes dryness. Sudden temperature changes can dilate small blood vessels, worsening redness and irritation. When cleansing your face, using cool or lukewarm water helps maintain moisture balance and prevents tightness and dryness after washing.

5. Applying Skincare Products in the Wrong Order

If oil-based products are applied first, the products applied afterward won’t be able to penetrate the skin properly. Think of your skin like a sponge, start with lightweight, water-based products so they absorb easily, then seal them in with thicker creams. Applying heavy, oil-rich products first creates a barrier on the skin, preventing toners and serums from reaching deeper layers. Therefore, always apply skincare products from lightest (toner/serum) to heaviest (cream/oil).

Achieving visible skincare results takes time, usually at least 4 to 6 weeks, so patience is key. Along with proper lifestyle habits and nutrition, consistently avoiding the mistakes mentioned above is very important. Additionally, supporting your skin from within by drinking at least 8 glasses of water a day is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to maintain naturally clear and glowing skin.