Hello, everyone!
Welcome back to Cosette's Beauty Pantry, where we’re all about nurturing your skin with love, care, and a bit of know-how. Today, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to my heart: the habits that might be sabotaging your skin’s glow. We all want radiant, healthy skin, but sometimes, our daily routines include sneaky habits that do more harm than good. If you’re ready to give your skin the TLC it deserves, here are the habits you should drop ASAP – your skin will thank you for it!
1. Sleeping with Makeup On
Let’s start with one of the biggest skincare sins: going to bed with a full face of makeup. I get it – after a long day, the temptation to skip your nighttime routine and crash into bed is real. But leaving makeup on overnight is like inviting trouble to your skin’s doorstep. Makeup, especially foundation and concealer, can clog pores, trap dirt, and prevent your skin from breathing and regenerating while you sleep. This can lead to breakouts, dullness, and even premature ageing.
What to do instead: Make cleansing a non-negotiable part of your evening routine. Even if you’re exhausted, keep makeup wipes or a gentle micellar water by your bedside for those lazy nights. Better yet, double-cleanse with an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one to ensure every trace of makeup, sunscreen, and grime is gone. Your skin needs that fresh start to repair itself overnight.
2. Over-Exfoliating Your Skin
Exfoliation is a fantastic way to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a brighter complexion, but too much of a good thing can backfire. Over-exfoliating – whether with physical scrubs or chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs – can strip your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it red, irritated, and sensitive. I’ve seen so many people enthusiastically scrub their faces daily, only to end up with a compromised skin barrier that’s prone to dryness and breakouts.
What to do instead: Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week, depending on your skin type. If you’re using chemical exfoliants, start with a lower concentration and pay attention to how your skin reacts. Always follow up with a hydrating moisturiser to lock in moisture and protect your skin barrier. If you notice redness or tightness, give your skin a break and focus on gentle, nourishing products for a few days.
3. Skipping Sunscreen
If there’s one habit you need to ditch immediately, it’s skipping sunscreen. UV rays are your skin’s worst enemy, causing premature ageing, dark spots, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Even on cloudy days or when you’re indoors, UVA rays can penetrate windows and wreak havoc on your skin. I used to think sunscreen was only for beach days, but I quickly learned that daily protection is non-negotiable.
What to do instead: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every morning, rain or shine. Look for lightweight, non-greasy formulas that suit your skin type – there are plenty of options that double as makeup primers. If you’re worried about white cast, try a tinted sunscreen or a mineral-based one designed for your skin tone. Reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors for extended periods.
4. Touching Your Face Constantly
How many times a day do you touch your face without realising it? Whether you’re resting your chin in your hand, rubbing your eyes, or picking at a blemish, this habit transfers oil, dirt, and bacteria to your skin, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. I used to absentmindedly touch my face while working, and it wasn’t until I broke this habit that I noticed fewer pesky pimples.
What to do instead: Be mindful of your hands and keep them away from your face as much as possible. If you need to apply skincare or adjust your glasses, wash your hands first. Keep a hand sanitiser or cleansing wipes handy for on-the-go moments. And if you’re tempted to pick at a spot, try using a hydrocolloid patch to heal it without causing scarring or irritation.
5. Using Dirty Makeup Brushes and Sponges
Your makeup tools are your skin’s best friends – or worst enemies if they’re not cleaned regularly. Dirty brushes and sponges harbour bacteria, oil, and old product, which can cause breakouts and uneven makeup application.
What to do instead: Clean your makeup brushes and sponges at least once a week. Use a gentle brush cleaner or mild soap and warm water, and let them air dry completely before using them again. Consider investing in a brush cleansing mat to make the process easier. If you’re short on time, a quick spritz of brush cleaner between uses can help keep bacteria at bay.
6. Neglecting Your Diet and Hydration
What you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your skin. A diet high in processed foods, sugar, and dairy can trigger inflammation and breakouts, while dehydration leaves your skin looking dull and tired. I used to rely on sugary snacks for energy, but swapping them for nutrient-rich foods made a world of difference to my complexion.
What to do instead: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Foods like avocados, nuts, and berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that support skin health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day – aim for at least 2 litres – and consider herbal teas or infused water for a hydration boost. Your skin will glow from the inside out.
7. Using Harsh Products for Acne
When a breakout pops up, it’s tempting to reach for the harshest acne treatments in hopes of zapping it away. But aggressive products with high concentrations of benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid can dry out your skin, causing irritation and even more breakouts. I’ve been guilty of over-treating spots, only to end up with flaky, red patches.
What to do instead: Treat acne gently with targeted products. Look for spot treatments with low concentrations of active ingredients, and always follow up with a soothing moisturiser. Ingredients like niacinamide or tea tree oil can calm inflammation without stripping your skin. If breakouts persist, consult a dermatologist for a tailored treatment plan.
8. Ignoring Your Neck and Hands
Your face gets all the love, but your neck and hands are just as exposed to the elements and prone to ageing. Neglecting these areas can lead to uneven skin tone, dryness, and visible signs of ageing that give away your skincare secrets. I used to skip my neck in my routine, and the difference in texture was noticeable!
What to do instead: Extend your skincare routine to your neck and hands. Apply cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen to these areas daily. For an extra boost, use a hydrating serum or a retinol product (sparingly) to keep these areas smooth and youthful. Don’t forget to reapply hand cream and sunscreen throughout the day, especially after washing your hands.
Final Thoughts
Breaking these habits might take a bit of effort, but your skin will reward you with a healthier, more radiant complexion. It’s all about making small, consistent changes that add up to big results. Start by tackling one or two of these habits, and gradually work your way through the list. Your skin is unique, so listen to its needs and adjust your routine accordingly. Cosette's Beauty Pantry is all about empowering you to feel confident in your skin. Dropping these habits is a step towards loving the skin you’re in, and I’m excited to hear about your journey! So, tell me in the comments: which of these habits are you guilty of, and which one are you ready to ditch for good? Let’s chat and inspire each other to glow up!
With love,Â
