What Dermatologists Wish You’d Stop Doing to Your Skin
Every day, dermatologists see skin concerns that could have been prevented with a few simple changes to a skincare routine. While social media trends and endless product recommendations can make skincare feel overwhelming, healthy skin often comes down to following a few evidence-based habits and avoiding some common mistakes.
Here are five things’ dermatologists wish patients would stop doing to protect their skin and keep it looking its best.
Sleeping in Your Makeup
After a long day, it can be tempting to skip your nighttime skincare routine. However, leaving makeup on overnight allows oil, dirt, sweat, and environmental pollutants to remain on the skin for hours.
Over time, this can contribute to clogged pores, breakouts, irritation, and a dull complexion. Even if you’re exhausted, taking a few minutes to gently cleanse your face before bed can help support a healthier skin barrier and improve your skin’s overall appearance.
Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation can be beneficial, but more isn’t always better. Using harsh scrubs or combining multiple exfoliating products too frequently can strip away your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Signs you may be over-exfoliating include:
- Redness or irritation
- Increased sensitivity
- Dry, flaky skin
- Stinging when applying skincare products
Instead, choose products appropriate for your skin type and follow your dermatologist’s recommendations for how often to exfoliate.
Following Every Viral Skincare Trend
Social media is full of skincare advice, but not every trend is safe, or effective.
Many viral hacks are based on personal experiences rather than scientific evidence. Trying multiple trending products at once or using ingredients that aren’t designed for your skin can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or worsen existing skin conditions.
If you have questions about a product or trend, talk with your dermatologist before adding it to your routine.
Picking at Pimples or Blemishes
It may be tempting, but picking at acne or other blemishes often does more harm than good.
Picking can:
- Push bacteria deeper into the skin
- Increase inflammation
- Delay healing
- Lead to permanent scarring or discoloration
If you’re struggling with persistent acne, a dermatologist can recommend treatments that address the underlying cause while helping reduce the risk of future breakouts and scarring.
Skipping Sunscreen Because It’s Cloudy
One of the biggest skincare misconceptions is that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate clouds and reach your skin year-round. Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to help prevent premature aging, uneven pigmentation, and skin cancer.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it every morning—even if you’re spending most of the day indoors, or the weather is overcast.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Healthy skin doesn’t require a complicated routine or dozens of products. Consistency, sun protection, and choosing evidence-based skincare habits can go a long way toward keeping your skin healthy and looking its best.
If you’re unsure whether your current routine is right for your skin, schedule an appointment with your dermatology physician or provider.
Every day, dermatologists see skin concerns that could have been prevented with a few simple changes to a skincare routine. While social media trends and endless product recommendations can make skincare feel overwhelming, healthy skin often comes down to following a few evidence-based habits and avoiding some common mistakes.
Here are five things’ dermatologists wish patients would stop doing to protect their skin and keep it looking its best.
Sleeping in Your Makeup
After a long day, it can be tempting to skip your nighttime skincare routine. However, leaving makeup on overnight allows oil, dirt, sweat, and environmental pollutants to remain on the skin for hours.
Over time, this can contribute to clogged pores, breakouts, irritation, and a dull complexion. Even if you’re exhausted, taking a few minutes to gently cleanse your face before bed can help support a healthier skin barrier and improve your skin’s overall appearance.
Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation can be beneficial, but more isn’t always better. Using harsh scrubs or combining multiple exfoliating products too frequently can strip away your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Signs you may be over-exfoliating include:
- Redness or irritation
- Increased sensitivity
- Dry, flaky skin
- Stinging when applying skincare products
Instead, choose products appropriate for your skin type and follow your dermatologist’s recommendations for how often to exfoliate.
Following Every Viral Skincare Trend
Social media is full of skincare advice, but not every trend is safe, or effective.
Many viral hacks are based on personal experiences rather than scientific evidence. Trying multiple trending products at once or using ingredients that aren’t designed for your skin can lead to irritation, allergic reactions, or worsen existing skin conditions.
If you have questions about a product or trend, talk with your dermatologist before adding it to your routine.
Picking at Pimples or Blemishes
It may be tempting, but picking at acne or other blemishes often does more harm than good.
Picking can:
- Push bacteria deeper into the skin
- Increase inflammation
- Delay healing
- Lead to permanent scarring or discoloration
If you’re struggling with persistent acne, a dermatologist can recommend treatments that address the underlying cause while helping reduce the risk of future breakouts and scarring.
Skipping Sunscreen Because It’s Cloudy
One of the biggest skincare misconceptions is that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days.
Ultraviolet (UV) rays can penetrate clouds and reach your skin year-round. Daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to help prevent premature aging, uneven pigmentation, and skin cancer.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and apply it every morning—even if you’re spending most of the day indoors, or the weather is overcast.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
Healthy skin doesn’t require a complicated routine or dozens of products. Consistency, sun protection, and choosing evidence-based skincare habits can go a long way toward keeping your skin healthy and looking its best.
If you’re unsure whether your current routine is right for your skin, schedule an appointment with your dermatology physician or provider.
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