Face creams or face moisturizers form an important, almost indispensable component of skin care. Lack of moisture & hydration can lead to early signs of ageing dullness and ultimately make the skin prone to more damage. A balanced water content in our skin is essential to sustain the structural integrity of the largest organ in our body. Thus, we need to add some extra layer of protection to ensure that it remains plump and nourished.
1. Skipping Cleansing Before Applying Cream
It might seem like a no-brainer, but many people skip this essential step, especially when they’re in a rush. Applying face cream on dirty skin is a huge mistake as it ends up trapping all the oil, dirt and grime on your skin with an added layer of grease, making it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and germs. Thus, always make sure to cleanse your skin before applying any product.
2. Applying Too Much Product
When it comes to face cream, more is not always better. Overloading your skin with products can make it feel greasy, clog pores and hair follicles, and even lead to acne breakouts. Let’s remember less is often more. A pea-sized amount is typically enough for your entire face. If you’re using a thick cream or have dry skin, feel free to apply a little more, but never overdo it. Start with a small amount, and add more if needed.
3. Using the Wrong Cream for Your Skin Type
The face cream that works wonders for your friend might not be right for you. If you have oily skin and use a heavy, rich cream, it could exacerbate your condition, leading to clogged pores or increased breakouts. On the flip side, if you have dry skin and opt for a lightweight moisturiser, your skin might still feel tight or flaky.
4. Rubbing, Not Patting
We’ve all done it- applying cream with a quick, vigorous rub. Although it might feel like a harmless little rub, this can actually irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin, and even break down the moisture barrier over time. Instead of rubbing, gently tap or press your moisturiser into your skin with your fingertips.
5. Forgetting Your Neck and Décolletage
Most of us are great at moisturising our faces, but we often forget the neck and décolletage (the chest area below your neck). The skin here is just as delicate and exposed to the same environmental factors like UV rays and pollution. Thus, when applying face cream, don’t stop at your jawline. Gently massage your cream down your neck and across your chest as well.
6. Applying Cream to Dry Skin
If your skin is completely dry when you apply face cream, it may not absorb as effectively. Dry skin acts as a barrier, preventing your moisturizer from doing its job. For optimal hydration, it’s important to apply your cream when your skin is still a little damp from cleansing or toning. After cleansing or using a toner, leave your skin slightly damp before applying moisturizer.
7. Failure to Adapt Face Cream to the Seasons
Your skin changes with the weather, and many forget that face cream has a season as well. During winter, the weather is very dry, and it leaves your skin dry. For hotter months, there’s more moisture in the air that leaves your skin naturally oily; thus, you require a lighter moisturizing cream. Pay attention to how your skin feels as the seasons change, and adjust your face cream accordingly. This small change will help your skin stay nourished year-round.
8. Ignoring SPF
You’ve probably heard it a million times, but wearing SPF every day is essential, no matter your skin tone or the season. Most moisturizers contain SPF, but not all of them are enough protection, and you probably are not applying enough to get the full protective effect. Failure to do this is one of the worst mistakes that you can make for your skin’s long-term health. If your moisturizer has no SPF, apply a separate sunscreen after your moisturizer.
9. Not Giving it Time to Absorb
It is tempting to hurry with one’s routine, but applying the face cream too fast and then moving ahead can mean a less effective result. This is because your skin needs time to absorb the cream properly, which can make your makeup sit unevenly or make your skin feel greasy. So, give it some minutes or two to sink in before moving on to other steps, like putting on makeup.
10. Using Face Creams with Harsh Ingredients
While some powerful ingredients like retinol or AHAs can be beneficial, they could also be too harsh for some skin types if not used properly. Using products with these active ingredients without giving your skin time to adjust can lead to irritation, redness, or dryness. If you’re incorporating potent ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids, do so gradually. Introduce these products slowly into your routine, and always follow up with a soothing moisturizer.
Conclusion
Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be complicated, but a little attention to detail can make a big difference. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the most out of your face cream and enjoy healthier, more radiant skin. So, take your time, listen to your skin, and treat it with the care it deserves!
Also read: Unlocking Radiant Skin: The Power of Face Cleansers
