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We asked dermatologists about the most common mistakes they see patients making and how to correct them.
Getty Images / Iryna Veklich / Laneen Wells
You dont use moisturizer because you have acne.
We want them using [moisturizer] because it will contribute toa healthier skin barrier.
It absorbs really easily, so it doesnt feel thick, she says.
Its star ingredient,hyaluronic acid, helps your skin retain moisture so it stays hydrated and plump.
Its the perfect pre-makeup daytime moisturizer, and I was genuinely excited to use it every morning.
Neutrogena
Hydro Boost Water Gel
Amazon
Tata Harper Skincare
Clarifying Moisturizer
Sephora
2.
You use products that contain natural or synthetic fragrances.
Added fragrance can cause rashes and exacerbate skin conditions likeeczema, especially if you have sensitive skin.
What to do instead:Im a big proponent of fragrance-free products on the skin, Dr. Vasile says.
A few of her favorite brands that make fragrance-free skin care areLa Roche-Posay,Cerave, andCetaphil.
Shop their cleansers and moisturizers belowseveral are either Healthy Beauty Award winners or SELF staffer favorites.
Another pro tip: Look for products labeled fragrance-free, which means they dont have any perfumes in them.
You brush your teeth after you wash your face.
What to do instead:Theres a super easy fix here.
Wash your faceafteryou brush your teeth to ensure youre rinsing all of that residue off.
Any of the cleansers we listed above will gently wash away toothpaste, along with any traces ofsunscreenor makeup.
Crosize
Microfiber Spa Wrist Bands
Whaline
Spa Facial Headband
4.
You overdo it with retinoids.
Retinoids likeretinolare amazing for smoothing wrinkles, minimizing acne, and keeping your skin looking glowy and healthy.
But to see those benefitsinstead of redness and irritationtake things slow and steady.
With retinoids, a lot of people put on way too much, Dr. Vasile says.
You only need a pea-size amount for your whole face.
If your skin adjusts to it well, you might gradually ramp up to using it nightly.
And dont skip out on your moisturizer afteritll be key foravoiding dry, flaky skin.
Youre skipping sunscreen on your face.
Remembering to wear sunscreen to the beach is great, but you know when else you should wear it?
(Yes, even if its cloudy oryoure staying inside all day.)
Adequate sun protection is the most important part of any skin care routine.
What to do instead:Along with wearing it every day, you should also ensure youreapplying enough sunscreen.
Your face needs about a quarter-sized dollop or two finger lengths worth to block UV rays.
But its way easier to apply SPF every day if you like the one youre using.
Dr. Rambhia recommends trying a tinted mineral (a.k.a.
The added tint minimizes a white cast and can actually make your skin look more even.
I love how thin and silky the formula is, and the glowy finish it gives my skin.
Youre using your makeup wipes wrong.
Taking off all of your makeup and sunscreen at the end of the day is an essential step.
But if youre using makeup wipes, you still need to give your skin an extra rinse after.
What to do instead:After using a makeup wipe (gently!
), follow up with a cleanser.
Another fix is to avoid makeup wipes altogether.
I can also vouch forGarniers Micellar Cleansing Water, which is great at removing stubborn waterproof makeup.
Dr. Weinstein Velezs favorite isFarmacys Makeup Remover Cleansing Balm(she says it melts makeup right off).
