El Segundo Dermatology’s Dr. Jill Javahery shines a spotlight on six common skincare mistakes, and offers professional advice on how to correct these misleading trends below.
Mistake #1: Using shea butter or cocoa butter as a face moisturizer.
Winter is notorious for dry skin issues, but using a heavy moisturizer like shea or cocoa butter is not the right way to go! These thick creams will only clog pores and can lead to acne. Instead, use a gel or lotion moisturizer that was specifically created for use on the face. CeraVe is one of my favorites!
Mistake #2: Using rough, grainy scrubs to exfoliate.
Exfoliating is an important step in taking care of your skin, but overly rough exfoliants will only aggravate your skin, leading to more redness and irritation. Try a gentle wash or exfoliating pad treatment, and limit it to a few times per week.
Mistake #3: Using chemical sunscreen.
I always say that wearing sunblock is the single most important thing you can do for your skin every day, but switch to a mineral sunscreen instead! It’s better for your skin overall, and a tinted sunblock offers protection and looks great at the same time.
Mistake #4: Using over-the-counter retinols and anti-aging products.
When you get to the point where you start needing to use retinols and other anti-aging products, make sure you talk to your dermatologist first. He or she can find you a retinol that will work for your skin! Another tip? Stick to a routine for at least a month to really see results before you decide to either keep using that product or switch to something else.
Mistake #5: Washing hair less when you see shedding.
Shedding is normal, but if you see an increase in the amount, don’t stop washing your hair thinking you’ll prevent hair loss! It will cause more harm than good. Buildup of dandruff causes inflammation of the scalp, which can actually cause you to shed more hair. Make sure you’re washing at least three times per week!
Mistake #6: Using heavy foundations and concealers to cover up problem areas.
If you find yourself using heavy makeup to cover up blemishes and spots, see your dermatologist. Work with a doctor to find a solution that works for you. Covering up never looks great. Makeup should enhance your best features, not hide your worst!
Thanks for sharing this list. Love the comment that wearing sunblock is the single most important thing you can do for your skin. It’s totally true – as 90% of skin aging is caused by the sun according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Sunblock is really one of the best anti-aging products on the market – it’s accessible, affordable and effective. Plus prevention is always cheaper and easier to deal with than treatment later on. Finally, yes – of course we are big fans of mineral sunscreens as well :).