By Allina Glow
Even with the best intentions, most of us make small skincare mistakes without even realizing it.
And while they seem harmless, these habits can lead to dryness, dullness, breakouts, or that “my products don’t work anymore” feeling.
The good news?
Most skincare mistakes are incredibly easy to fix — once you know what you’re doing wrong.
Here are the most common ones… and how to finally get the glowing, balanced skin you deserve. ✨
✨ 1. Over-Cleansing (or Using the Wrong Cleanser)
Cleansing is important — but cleansing too much or too harshly strips your skin barrier.
Signs you’re over-cleansing:
- tight or squeaky skin
- increased oiliness
- redness
- flakiness
Fix it:
✓ Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser
✓ Double cleanse only at night (if you wear SPF/makeup)
✓ Avoid foaming cleansers if you have dry or sensitive skin
Glowssip tip: If your face feels “squeaky,” that’s not clean — that’s damaged.
💧 2. Skipping Moisturizer Because You Think You’re Oily
One of the biggest myths: “Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer.”
In reality, skipping hydration makes your skin produce more oil, not less.
Fix it:
Choose lightweight, gel-based moisturizers with:
- niacinamide
- hyaluronic acid
- squalane
Your skin will balance itself naturally — promise.
📉 3. Using Too Many Active Ingredients at Once
Acids, retinol, vitamin C, exfoliants… all powerful, all great — but not all together.
Overusing actives causes:
- irritation
- redness
- breakouts
- damaged skin barrier
Fix it:
✓ Stick to 1–2 active ingredients per routine
✓ Keep retinol and AHAs/BHAs separate
✓ Start slowly (2–3 nights a week)
Glowssip rule: “Just because it tingles doesn’t mean it’s working.”
🧴 4. Not Applying Enough SPF — or Not Reapplying
SPF is non-negotiable.
But most people use far too little.
Correct amount:
Two fingers’ length for your face and neck.
Reapply every:
2–3 hours (especially if you’re outside)
Fix it:
✓ Use SPF 30+ daily
✓ Try SPF fluids or gels for easier reapplication
✓ Don’t skip your neck, ears, and hairline
SPF is the #1 anti-aging product. No competition.
💦 5. Applying Products in the Wrong Order
Skincare layering matters.
If you apply heavy creams before serums, they can’t penetrate properly.
Correct order:
- Cleanser
- Toner / Essence (optional)
- Serums
- Moisturizer
- SPF (morning only)
Think: thin → thick; water → oil.
❌ 6. Picking Your Skin
We all know we shouldn’t pick… but we do it anyway.
The problem? Picking spreads bacteria deeper into the skin.
Fix it:
✓ Apply hydrocolloid patches
✓ Use a clay mask on inflamed areas
✓ Keep hands away from your face
✓ Try ice cubes to reduce swelling
If you have the urge to squeeze — walk away from the mirror.
🌙 7. Going to Bed Without Washing Your Face
Even if you’re tired. Even if you’re lazy.
Sleeping with SPF or makeup = clogged pores + dullness.
Fix it:
Keep micellar water + cotton pads by your bed for “emergency cleansing.”
Not ideal, but better than nothing.
🌼 8. Ignoring Your Skin Barrier
If your skin feels irritated, flaky, or suddenly reactive, your barrier is probably compromised.
Fix it:
✓ Simplify your products
✓ Use ceramides, peptides, and centella
✓ Avoid exfoliants for 7–10 days
✓ Stay consistent
Strong barrier = naturally glowing skin.
✨ Final GlowThought
Good skincare isn’t about buying more products.
It’s about using the right ones, in the right order, with the right habits.
Fix the small mistakes — and watch your skin transform.
Your glow begins with awareness. 💚
