Whether you go through an extensive skincare routine every night or just stick to the basics, most people think they have their skincare all figured out. However, it’s all too easy to disrupt our skin without even realizing it. Here are a few common skincare mistakes you might be guilty of committing:

Sleeping with Makeup On

Going to bed without removing your makeup is one of the biggest skincare no-nos, and an almost surefire way to wake up with fresh new pimples or skin irritations. Make sure you remove all traces of makeup, dirt and excess oil from your face at the end of the day before you sleep, no matter how tired you may be. If you are used to late nights, going through an extensive skincare routine is probably the last thing you want to do after a long day. The trick is to keep it simple and to use products that work quickly. Well Within Beauty, a beauty and wellness brand, believes that true beauty is the result of a healthy lifestyle and simple, yet well-made and effective products.

Their Purify + Condition Natural Makeup Remover removes makeup and dirt like a dream, eradicating even the most stubborn waterproof mascara and longwear foundations. It does this while moisturizing your skin and maintaining its balance at the same time. It also wipes or rinses off completely clean, without any residue, so you won’t have to spend too much time getting it off your skin.

Using Harsh Cleansers

A lot of inexpensive foaming cleansers that are readily available at the drugstore or supermarket can leave your skin with a “squeaky clean” feeling after each use. Many people mistake this sensation as a good thing, thinking that it is a sign that the cleanser has completely gotten rid of all dirt and oil. The problem with these type of cleansers is that they could also be stripping your skin of essential natural oils and the moisture it needs to keep itself healthy and strong.

Healthy skin should not feel “squeaky clean.” It should feel plump, moisturized and bouncy to the touch. In order to achieve this, opt for a gentle cleanser that doesn’t contain sulfates and that has a pH level of 5 to 6. Skin has a natural pH level of about 5.5, so these types of pH-friendly cleansers will effectively clean your skin without disrupting it.

Not Moisturizing Properly

Many people skip moisturizer altogether for fear that it will cause oiliness or breakouts. This is a mistake because healthy skin needs adequate hydration in order to function at its best. The key is to choose a lightweight, water-based moisturizer so you will feel comfortable wearing it every day. Steer clear of thick and heavy cream moisturizers; opt for gel or emulsion types instead.

To make your moisturizer even more effective, it is recommended to apply it right after washing your face when you skin is still damp. This will make it absorb faster and protect your skin longer.

Not Wearing Sunscreen Everyday

The sun’s harmful rays can cause the most damage to your skin, including hyperpigmentation, dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles and sunburn. Protect your skin from these damaging rays by wearing sunscreen every day. Don’t skip the sunscreen when it isn’t sunny; the sun’s rays are extremely powerful and can penetrate through clouds and glass even on rainy and overcast days.

For maximum protection, choose a sunscreen with broad spectrum protection and an SPF of at least 30.

Treating Breakouts Too Aggressively

When you are struggling with acne or breakouts, it’s natural to want to pile on the products and medication to make those unsightly blemishes just go away https://www.publicedcenter.org. However, doing this may only aggravate and exacerbate your condition. The proper way to treat pimples is by treating your skin as if it is wounded. The same way you would gently treat a wound with mild soap and a light touch, the best way to treat pimples is by using gentle cleansers, a clean, basic moisturizer, and to use medicated products in moderation. Back off and give your skin the time and space to heal itself, and you will notice your breakouts healing much faster and more efficiently.

If you regularly commit any of these common skincare mistakes, it’s not too late to drop your bad habits and treat your skin better. Practice good skincare habits and your skin will thank you with a clear, clean and beautiful complexion.