5 common skincare mistakes – and how to avoid them

We all want healthy, radiant skin – but what if your very own routine is getting in the way? Even those who know their skin sometimes make unknowing mistakes that can lead to blemishes, irritation, or premature skin aging. Here are the 5 most common skincare mistakes – and how you can easily avoid them.

1. Too much peeling – less is more

Exfoliants boost your glow, remove dead skin cells, and refine your skin's texture—but don't overdo it! Exfoliating too often or too harshly destroys the skin's barrier and leads to redness, dryness, and tightness.

Solution:

• Peel a maximum of 1-3 times per week, depending on your skin type
  
• For sensitive skin, it is better to use gentle peelings with PHA or lactic acid
  
• Always use moisturizing serum and barrier protection afterward

Tip: If your skin feels tight or flaky, take a break and try soothing skincare with hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

2. Wrong combinations of active ingredients – when more is not better

Some active ingredients are dream teams, while others are best kept separate. Combining them incorrectly can cause irritation or reduced effectiveness.

Solution:

• Do not use vitamin C and retinol together – too much irritation potential
  
• Avoid AHA/BHA + Retinol – increases the risk of irritation
  
• Vitamin C + SPF is perfect for the day
  
• Always apply hyaluronic acid before retinol to protect the skin

Tip: Always integrate new active ingredients into your routine one at a time and observe how your skin reacts.

3. No moisturizer for oily skin

Many people believe that oily skin doesn't need any care—a misconception! Lacking moisture, the skin produces even more oil.

Solution:

• Use light, oil-free gel moisturizers
  
• Products containing niacinamide help regulate sebum production
  
• Always use after serum to lock in moisture

Tip: Hyaluronic acid + light moisturizer is the optimal combination for oily skin types.

4. No sun protection in everyday life

UV protection isn't just for summer vacations. Without SPF, pigment spots, wrinkles, and collagen degradation develop – even in cloudy weather.

Solution:

• Apply SPF 30 or higher every day
  
• Choose broad-spectrum sun protection against UVA and UVB rays
  
• Reapply cream every 2 hours when you are outside

Tip: If you don't like heavy textures, try a light gel SPF with a matte texture.

5. Ignoring the skin barrier

The skin barrier is your protective shield. If it is weakened, the skin becomes dry, sensitive, and prone to inflammation.

Solution:

• Use mild, pH-neutral cleaners
  
• Ceramides, squalane and niacinamide promote barrier protection
  
• Reduce active ingredients if irritation occurs

Tip: Simple routine for stressed skin: Cleanser + Moisturizing Serum + Cream + SPF

Conclusion: Fewer mistakes, more glow

Successful skincare doesn't happen by chance. With the right knowledge and small adjustments, you can achieve a lot. Use clever combinations, pay attention to your skin barrier, and don't forget sunscreen – and you'll get that glow.

Which of these mistakes have you ever made? ✨