5 Common Skincare Mistakes You're Probably Making (and How to Fix Them)

We all make skincare mistakes from time to time, but some habits can actually harm your skin in the long run. In this article, I’ll highlight five common skincare mistakes and share easy fixes to help you get the best results from your routine.

Skincare Mistake #1: Using Harsh Products That Strip Your Skin

Many people assume that squeaky-clean skin is the goal, especially if they’re dealing with oil or breakouts. But using harsh cleansers, scrubs, or alcohol-based toners can actually damage your skin’s protective barrier. This leads to irritation, dehydration, and in some cases, even more oil production as your skin tries to compensate.

The Solution:
Opt for gentle, pH-balanced cleansers that remove impurities without stripping your skin’s natural moisture. One of my top recommendations is the Colorescience Barrier Pro Cleanser. It’s truly great for everyone. It thoroughly removes makeup, sunscreen, and debris in just one cleanse while supporting the skin barrier, leaving your skin clean, balanced, and never tight or dry.

If you're unsure what your skin needs, booking a facial or skin consultation can help you skip the trial-and-error and find the right routine for your skin.

2. Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy or Cold Days

One of the most common skincare mistakes is thinking sunscreen is only necessary when it’s hot or sunny. But UV rays can still penetrate clouds and windows, meaning your skin is exposed year-round, even on overcast days or while working indoors. Though the UV index may be lower in the winter, cumulative daily exposure adds up and can lead to premature aging, pigmentation, and long-term skin damage.

The Solution:
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, regardless of the weather or season. Many modern formulas also protect against pollution, blue light (from screens), and infrared radiation, making them a vital part of your routine, even if you’re working from home.
✨ My go-to recommendation: Colorescience No Show Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 - it’s lightweight, invisible on the skin, and offers advanced protection without clogging pores.

3. Over-Exfoliating or Using the Wrong Type of Exfoliator

Exfoliation can do wonders for your skin, smoothing texture, brightening your complexion, and helping products absorb more effectively. But when it’s overdone, or the wrong kind is used, it can strip the skin barrier, cause irritation, and even trigger breakouts. Physical scrubs may be too abrasive for many skin types, while strong chemical exfoliants can be too harsh if used too frequently or layered incorrectly.

The Solution:
Exfoliation should be tailored to your skin type, condition, and other active ingredients in your routine. For most people, 2–3 times per week is plenty. Sensitive skin may benefit from something gentler like lactic or mandelic acid, while oily or acne-prone skin may respond well to glycolic or salicylic acid.
✨ A great option for almost all skin types: Marini Skin Solutions Bioclear Face Lotion – it combines glycolic, salicylic, and azelaic acids to gently resurface the skin without being overly harsh.

Not sure what exfoliant is best for you? Book a facial and I’ll help you build a routine that supports your skin, not stresses it out.

4. Not Adjusting Your Skincare Routine for Seasonal Changes

Your skin’s needs change with the seasons, but many people stick to the exact same products all year long. In colder months, lower humidity and indoor heating can lead to dryness and sensitivity. In warmer months, excess sweat, oil, and sun exposure can trigger breakouts or increase the risk of pigmentation. Ignoring these shifts can leave your skin dehydrated, congested, or unbalanced.

The Solution:
Adapt your skincare routine to the weather. In the winter, add richer moisturizers, barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, and consider adding a layer of facial oil at night to lock in hydration and protect your skin barrier.

In the summer, opt for lighter textures and ingredients that help wick away excess oil and keep breakouts in check, like salicylic acid or sulfur. These can be especially helpful if your skin gets oilier or more acne-prone in the heat.

5. Neglecting Your Neck, Chest, and Hands

While most people focus their skincare routine on their face, the neck, chest, and hands are often left out, and these are some of the first areas to show signs of aging, sun damage, and loss of elasticity. The skin here is thinner and more delicate, which makes it even more vulnerable to environmental stressors if not properly cared for.

The Solution:
Extend your skincare routine beyond your jawline. Apply your cleansers, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen to your neck and chest daily. And don’t forget your hands, they’re constantly exposed and benefit just as much from daily SPF and hydration.

✨ My top recommendation for treating the neck: Marini Juveneck – a targeted treatment specifically formulated to firm, smooth, and hydrate the delicate skin on the neck.