If you’ve ever attempted a 10-step celebrity skincare routine only to end up with dry, thirsty skin, you’re not alone. Many people have experienced similar outcomes after trying out costly, influencer-promoted cosmetic products packed with supposed ‘magic ingredients’, only to find them as effective as an expired snack from the corner store. These products and the chaotic skincare routines they inspire can often contribute to worsening an existing skin problem rather than solving it.
Some of the most common mistakes people make when choosing and using skincare and haircare products range from using sunscreens that do not offer real protection, over-exfoliation, blind faith in influencers, overuse of products, neglectful or obsessive skincare habits, face waxing, dehydration, unorthodox hair washing habits, use of oil as dandruff cure, homemade hair colour blending and disregarding the dermatologist’s advice.
Sunscreens with no sun protection sounds bewildering, right? Shockingly, it’s a genuine problem in the world of beauty products. Some brands sell so-called “SPF” that’s hardly better than butter at protecting against harmful rays. In order to protect your skin, opt for sunscreens that come with confirmed lab reports verifying their SPF level and have them reviewed by your dermatologist, if possible.
Exfoliation is an essential step in the skincare routine. However, too much of something is never a good thing.Patients are often found scrubbing their faces excessively causing damage to the skin boundary, bringing too much sensitivity and irritation. Gentle skin scrubs and moderate exfoliation are recommended.
As more people turn to the internet for skincare advice, influencers are gaining a powerful platform. However, not all trending products work for everyone. Often, these products aren’t even scientifically backed. As such, caution needs to be exercised and individual research is a must before you make a purchase. Falling for a fad can lead to skin breakouts and more serious problems.
On the other hand, overloading on various skin products will not benefit you either. Applying multiple serums, moisturisers, eye creams and other potions won’t improve the skin but may cause acne, rashes or even more severe skin conditions. Cleansing, toning, moisturising and applying sunscreen are fundamental and individuals should select the products that cater to their specific skin type.
Waxing your face is not a sole solution to your sun damage problem. Consistent face waxing can lead to premature ageing and irritation of the skin. If you have normal or dry skin, natural masks can be a better fix. Consider a mask with ingredients such as lemon, tomato juice, a pinch of turmeric and some parboiled milk.
Moreover, skipping the moisturiser is never advisable. Regardless of the skin type, the skin produces more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture, hence the use of lightweight formulas is recommended. When it comes to hair care, it is best to wash your hair in an upright position, contrary to what shampoo commercials may show. Washing the hair upside down can cause more tangle and breakage.
Next in line of misguided practices is the use of various oils to treat dandruff. This approach can actually feed yeast known as Malassezia furfur, worsening the dandruff issue. It is essential to remember that oils are more temporary remedies than long term solutions.
Attempting to play cocktail chemist with hair colours without professionally qualified knowledge can lead to inflammatory scalp conditions like Lichen Plano Pilaris. Natural grey hair is more acceptable than detrimental side effects, so it is best to stick to reputable brands for hair colour or to embrace your greys.
Last but not the least, failing to follow the dermatologist’s orders is an absolute faux pas. If a definite skincare treatment plan is prescribed, there must be no room for customisation. Overuse of an effective treatment can have backlash consequences akin to overusing antibiotics for a cold.
To conclude, balance should be the golden rule in skincare. Avoid excessive or negligent use of products, don’t follow trends without due consideration and always trust medical professionals over internet celebrities.
