These common skincare missteps could make your routine less effective

Breakouts, dryness, inflammation– these are common skin conditions that affect everyone. Luckily, with the right skincare products and a consistent routine, you’ll see noticeable improvements in your complexion. 

“Wait!” you say. “Not me! I’m using all the best products and following a routine but my skin is the same as ever. I may as well ditch this whole skincare thing.”

We understand your frustration, but likelier than not it’s just a simple skincare misstep that’s getting in the way of your skincare goals. 

Do any of these sound familiar?

Using products in the incorrect order

Following the right skin routine order will maximize the absorption of key ingredients and give you the results you’re looking for. Like, fewer breakouts and lasting hydration. While the best regimen will depend on your skin type, here’s some science-backed guidance:

1. Cleanse: Wash away the day or night with a water-based cleanser that removes dead skin cells and oils without drying out the skin.

2. Exfoliate: A couple of times a week, especially at night, use a facial scrub to remove toxins that have burrowed deep into the pores 

3. Moisturize: Lock in the hydration and add more by applying your moisturizer while the skin is still damp. Then, apply your facial oil which will act as a seal on your hydrating products.

4. Sunscreen: UV exposure can damage the skin barrier, making it difficult to keep the skin hydrated. Apply it last so it can act as an undiluted protective shield.

Even a seemingly small change, like applying facial oil before moisturizer, could make the whole routine less effective. The oil is an occlusive that creates a physical barrier on the skin. Without it, your skin may dry out over the course of the day.

Forgetting the neck 

Most people who follow a skincare routine only apply it to their faces, but your neck needs love too. Neck skin is thin and about as delicate as the skin on your eyelids. It also has fewer sebaceous glands which produce natural oil to protect and hydrate the skin. 

On top of all that, there’s this phenomenon called tech neck: we all spend so much time hunched over technology that we end up overworking our neck muscles and causing horizontal lines across the skin.

What we’re trying to say is– don’t forget your neck! Those nourishing skincare products you use on your face? Take it south of your chin and even all the way to the chest. That way, as you age, you can avoid a stark contrast between the face and neck skin.

Using the same towel for your body and face

Your body towel traps bacteria, fungus, dead skin cells, and other debris. Rubbing all that into your face will likely result in skin irritation, breakouts, and even infections. Also, standard terry-cloth towels can be harsh on the face– acting as an exfoliant and removing protective oils. 

So, in addition to keeping separate towels for the face and body, choose a softer material for the face. Pure linen is a great option and also dries fast to prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria. A couple of other words of advice:

• Wash your towels at least once a week to prevent skin complications
• Dab instead of rub to keep the skin moist

A few simple changes (and a few simple skincare products) can bring out that glow that’s waiting just beneath the surface. After you’ve followed your new routine for a few months, tell us about your results: hello@yellowbeauty.com or tag us on IG @yellowbeauty.