Skin: The Most Common Mistakes We Make in Its Care

When it comes to skin and its care, misunderstandings and misconceptions abound. From the moment a young woman begins her skincare routine, friends, acquaintances, relatives, and supposedly various experts have something to suggest—usually advice they heard from their own mother, sister, friend, or even grandmother.

However, the beliefs passed down through generations may sound wise but are not necessarily correct. Dr. Markos Michelakis, Dermatologist-Aphrodisiologist (Aesthetic Dermatology-Dermatosurgery), explains some of the most common, timeless mistakes we make in caring for our skin.

1. Using products that do not match our skin type. “It is wrong for people with oily skin to use heavy moisturizing creams or for individuals with sensitive skin or a history of rosacea or allergic dermatitis to use products with strong fragrances or fruit extracts,” says Dr. Michelakis. “Each skin type needs its own products; otherwise, there may be consequences, such as clogged pores leading to pimples when heavy creams are used on oily skin, or an allergic reaction on sensitive skin.”

The solution? Read the labels of cosmetics before purchasing. Those with oily skin should use products labeled “non-comedogenic” (meaning they won’t clog pores), while people with sensitive skin should choose fragrance-free products with soothing ingredients like aloe, calendula, and chamomile.

2. Over-exfoliating. While exfoliation offers many benefits, it should not be part of a daily routine. “Daily exfoliation removes not only excess oil (sebum) but also moisture, leaving skin vulnerable to infections and premature wrinkles,” explains Dr. Michelakis. Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times per week in summer and 1-2 times per week in winter.
3. Popping pimples. Almost everyone with pimples has been tempted to pop them. However, irritation is greater under the visible pimple, so squeezing it can cause inflammation and sometimes unnecessary scarring.
4. Washing your face too often. Acne does not appear solely because the face is dirty but due to a combination of factors: overproduction of sebum (often hormonal), disruption in pore cell turnover, and activity of the acne-causing bacterium P. acnes. Wash gently twice a day with an appropriate cleanser, not constantly throughout the day.
5. Applying sunscreen only when it’s sunny. Even on cloudy days, wearing sunscreen is essential, year-round. UV rays penetrate clouds and damage the skin, so apply a thin layer on exposed areas, including the face, 20-30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours if staying outside.
6. Wearing makeup during strenuous activity and sweating. Whether going to the gym or running errands, sweat can trap makeup in pores, causing pimples. Allow your skin to “breathe” during heavy sweating.
7. Poor sleep habits. Sleeping with makeup on or getting insufficient rest results in dull skin and increased irritation. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night, as rest helps repair daily skin damage. Lack of sleep manifests visibly on the skin.
8. Unhealthy diet. While specific foods may not directly cause pimples, poor diet affects skin health and can accelerate premature aging. Eat a balanced diet with adequate proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Avoid excessive sugar, which damages collagen and elastin, reducing skin elasticity and promoting wrinkles.

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