Self-care and even more specifically, skincare has really become a focus for many of us during the pandemic as we are motivated to make our health (mental and physical) a priority. However, did you know that you might be making some mistakes during your a.m. or p.m. routine–this is pretty common! But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
10 Common Skincare Mistakes You Might Be Making! 😱
TOP 10 Skincare Mistakes:
1. Substituting sunscreen with SPF makeup.
If your makeup has SPF value, consider it an added benefit, not a replacement for the real thing. Dr Leslie Baumann (a dermatologist) says you would need to wear 7x the normal amount of foundation and 14x the normal amount of powder to experience the same effects of applying sunscreen–totally not realistic!
#AOGlow Tip✨: Apply our Liquid Reef-Safe Sunscreen to your face (and body, course!) anytime your skin is exposed to sunlight.
2. Washing your face too much.
You don’t need to keep washing your face all the time! You’ll see less breakouts when you’re not continuously washing your face. While cleaning your face is important, the oils in your face get removed when it is subject to constant washing, causing the skin to overcompensate and overproduce oils.
#AOGlow Tip✨: Wash your face with our ʻŌlena + Honey Foaming Cleanser 2x a day.
3. Not moisturizing oily skin.
People with oily skin think they don’t need to apply moisturizer, and that it's only applicable to people with dry skin. Even for people with an oily skin type, skin gets dehydrated from being exposed to the sun or the air-conditioner for too long, constant sweating, or even constant washing!
#AOGlow Tip✨: Apply our Ili Hydration Moisturizer, in the morning and night.
4. Exfoliating too much or too little.
When skin is scrubbed too hard and too often, you strip it of its natural oil barrier, and it may appear red and raw, plus feel a little too tight. If you’re not exfoliating regularly, you make your skin susceptible to acne and clogged pores. The frequency of exfoliation should depend on your skin type–2x a week for sensitive skin and 4x a week for tough skin.
#AOGlow Tip✨: Exfoliate your skin with our Green Goddess Cleanser, 3-4x a week.
5. Avoiding your daily coffee.
Are you on a caffeine detox? It actually may be affecting your skin! Quitting cold-turkey is not necessary (you’re probably sighing with relief!). In fact, the antioxidants in coffee may help to fight premature aging which arises from free radicals. Coffee in moderation is still recommended :)
#AOGlow Tip✨: Can’t get enough coffee? Try our Awakening Eye Espresso in the morning to start your day!
6. Not applying skincare products before going to sleep.
After wearing makeup all day, you might feel like going bare for the night. However, your skin will restore itself better if you apply your products not just in the a.m., but p.m. as well. The active ingredients in the products neutralize the negative effect of cosmetics and refresh your face.
#AOGlow Tip✨: Apply our Ili Alohi Serum before bed. Cleanse and tone before applying serum, then follow with our moisturizer.
7.Taking extra hot showers.
A hot bath feels amazing after a long day; however, hot water disturbs your skin’s natural balance and strips it of its oily barriers–causing the skin to overproduce oils to make up for the loss. In addition, the harsh chemicals in your soap harms skin as well. Opt for lukewarm water, a fragrance-free soap, plus be sure to moisturize after your shower!
8. Using the same pillow case for two weeks (or more!).
Even if you wash your hair and thoroughly cleanse your face every evening before going to sleep, your pillowcase stores dust, particles of epithelium and hair (yours and/or your pet’s!). After two to three days, your pillow has the perfect conditions to produce blemishes on your face. Major key–changing your pillowcase once every two days. Even try replacing yours with silk pillowcases–they can protect your face from rashes as well as premature wrinkling.
9. Refusing to use makeup removers.
Do you get lazy and wash off your makeup with just one cleanser or even worse, water only. Although you might be saving on time, you’re leaving makeup particles on your face that can cause your pores to clog, and lead to acne or an increase in the skin’s oil content. That’s why using a form of a makeup remover before cleansing is a must!
#AOGlow Tip✨: Use our Get Naked Makeup Remover before cleansing and toning in the evening.
10. Not using toner.
Toner restores the pH balance of the skin and prepares it for your skincare routine steps. It’s also necessary after harsh procedures like chemical peels. By using a toner, you’ll avoid skin concerns such as dryness, irritation, and rashes!
#AOGlow Tip✨: Apply our Hibiscus Mist Facial Toner or Rose Water Toner morning and evening.
Were you making any of these mistakes? We hope our tips helped! If you have any skincare questions or concerns, DM us on Instagram or leave a comment below!
Xx,
The AO Organics Hawai‘i ‘ohana
