5 Skincare Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making (And How to Fix Them)

When it comes to skincare, most people mean well—but even with a shelf full of products, glowing skin can still feel out of reach. The truth? Many of us are unknowingly sabotaging our skincare goals with small but significant mistakes. These errors are easy to overlook but can quietly undo all your hard work.

Let’s explore five common skincare missteps, how they impact your skin, and what you can do to fix them — the right way.

1. Over-Cleansing or Using the Wrong Cleanser

The mistake: Washing your face too often, or using a harsh cleanser, can strip your skin of its natural oils. This leads to dryness, irritation, or even breakouts as your skin tries to overcompensate.

The fix: Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that supports your skin barrier. If you don’t wear heavy makeup or SPF, cleansing once at night may be enough. For morning routines, a splash of water or a mild micellar cleanser does the job.

2. Skipping Sunscreen (Even Indoors!)

The mistake: Thinking you only need sunscreen on sunny beach days. In reality, UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of sun damage.

The fix: Make sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) a non-negotiable step in your morning routine—yes, even when it’s cloudy, or you’re indoors near windows. Reapply every two hours if you're out and about.

3. Layering Products Incorrectly

The mistake: Applying products in the wrong order can prevent your skin from fully absorbing all the benefits—or even cause pilling and breakouts.

The fix: Apply products from thinnest to thickest consistency. The typical order: cleanser → toner → serum → moisturizer → sunscreen (AM) or facial oil (PM, optional). Let each layer absorb before adding the next.

4. Ignoring Your Neck and Chest

The mistake: Focusing all your skincare on your face and neglecting your neck and décolletage. These areas age just as quickly and show signs of sun damage early on.

The fix: Extend your skincare routine down to your chest. Use the same products you use on your face to keep the texture and tone even and youthful.

5. Not Listening to Your Skin

The mistake: Forcing a “perfect” 10-step routine even when your skin is breaking out, dry, or irritated. Everyone’s skin is different, and it’s constantly changing due to weather, hormones, diet, and stress.

The fix: Pay attention. If your skin feels tight, dry, or inflamed, simplify your routine and prioritize barrier-repair products like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and calming ingredients like centella asiatica. Less is often more.

>> Glowing skin isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing what works. By avoiding these common skincare mistakes and fine-tuning your routine, you’ll give your skin the support it truly needs. Glownova believes in smart beauty—because confidence starts with clarity, not confusion.