Top 5 Skin Mistakes I See Every Day as a Skin Therapist
As a skin therapist, I get to work closely with so many people who care about their skin—but even the most well-intentioned routines can sometimes be sabotaged by small (but common) mistakes. If you’ve ever felt like your skincare just isn’t giving you the results you want, one of these might be the culprit.
Let’s break down the top 5 mistakes I see all the time—and how to fix them.
Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation is amazing when done right—it helps slough away dead skin cells, brightens the complexion, and helps products absorb better. But too much of a good thing? Not so good.
Daily use of scrubs or acids can lead to over-exfoliation and compromise the skin's natural barrier. It is crucial to remember that such products should only be used as advised by a licensed professional. Regular review will help determine the appropriate frequency and type of exfoliation based on individual skin types and concerns. Prioritising the health of your skin is essential, so it's best to seek guidance rather than follow trends that may harm your complexion.
What I see: People using scrubs or acids daily,
The fix: Stick to 2–3 times a week for most skin types. And always follow with hydration and SPF!
Skipping Sunscreen (Yes, Even on Cloudy Days)
Commonly, I hear, “I don’t really need sunscreen because I’m indoors most of the day.” Let me be clear: SPF is non-negotiable.
What I see: uneven skin tone, premature aging, and even post-treatment irritation that could have been prevented with proper sun protection.
The fix: Apply SPF 30 or higher every single morning, rain or shine, indoors or out. It’s your best anti-aging tool. Consistent use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen safeguards your skin from harmful UV rays, which can infiltrate through windows and lead to skin damage over time. Incorporating this simple step into your daily routine not only preserves your skin’s health but also maintains its youthful appearance. Prioritise your skin; it deserves protection every day.
This is a portrait of a truck driver who never wore sunscreen. The left side of his face is noticeably more damaged due to prolonged sun exposure. This is a great example of what can happen to your skin over time without the use of sun protection.
Essentially, the left side of the man’s face appears severely wrinkled because, as a truck driver of 28 years, it was constantly exposed to Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays transmitted through the truck window, whereas the right side was covered - and relatively unharmed.
DIY Skincare Gone Wrong
DIY masks, lemon juice, and baking soda scrubs may seem appealing due to their natural ingredients, but they can often do more harm than good. These DIY treatments can lead to redness, sensitivity, breakouts, and disrupted pH levels—issues that can compromise your skin barrier.
To maintain a healthy complexion, it is crucial to use products that are specifically formulated by skincare professionals. These products are designed to be gentle and effective, helping to restore and protect the skin barrier instead of damaging it. Your skin will appreciate the care and consideration of well-researched formulations.
Not Using the Right Skincare
Having a routine is great—but if the products aren’t right for your skin type or concerns, they could be doing more harm than good (or nothing at all).
What I see: Clients using products that are too harsh, too rich, or simply not targeted to what their skin actually needs.
The fix: Skincare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Take the time to understand your skin (or get a professional skin analysis!) and build a routine with ingredients that truly support your goals. The right products can make all the difference.
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does have to be intentional. If any of these mistakes sound familiar, don’t stress. We’ve all been there. The good news? With the right tweaks (and maybe a little professional help), your skin can absolutely thrive.
Got questions or need help building a routine that actually works for your skin? Let’s chat—I’m here to help.
