Are You Committing These Skincare Faux Pas?
Nov 14, 2025
It usually starts with good intentions. You want healthy, glowing skin, so you load up on products, try the latest social media trends, and follow a few well-meaning tips from friends. But weeks later, your skin feels tight, dull, or irritated, and you’re wondering what went wrong.
The truth is, even those who think they’ve got their skincare game perfected can accidentally sabotage their routine with a few common missteps. These skincare “faux pas” aren’t always obvious, and sometimes they’re disguised as good habits. Fortunately, they’re fixable.
Here are some of the most common mistakes Kathleen J. Smith, MD, and our team at Dermatology Specialists of Atlanta see, why they matter, and how to get your skin back on track.
Cleansing and exfoliating are essential steps in a healthy skincare routine, but too much of a good thing can do more harm than good.
Washing your face more than twice a day or scrubbing aggressively strips away your skin’s natural oils and weakens its protective barrier. When that barrier breaks down, your skin dries out and becomes sensitive and prone to breakouts, the exact opposite of what you’re going for.
Gentleness is always better. We recommend using mild, pH-balanced cleansing and exfoliating products just a few times a week. If your skin feels tight or “squeaky clean” after washing, that’s a sign you’re going too far. Healthy skin should feel soft and balanced, not stripped.
We’ve all had nights when removing makeup feels like too much effort. But leaving it on overnight is one of the fastest ways to clog pores, dull your complexion, and irritate your skin.
Makeup traps oil, sweat, and environmental debris, creating a perfect environment for breakouts.
Even if you’re exhausted, a quick cleanse before bed is worth it. Micellar water or gentle makeup remover wipes can be lifesavers when you’re too tired for a full routine.
Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days. Daily ultraviolet (UV) exposure adds up, causing premature aging, sunspots, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
It’s tempting to skip sunscreen when you’re not “in the sun” enough to need it, but the truth is, UV rays reach your skin through windows, clouds, and car rides.
Broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher should be part of your morning routine. Applying it after moisturizer and before makeup creates a protective layer that keeps your skin healthy long-term.
Despite what the influencers say, more isn’t always better. Layering too many serums, acids, or actives can irritate your skin and reduce the effectiveness of your routine, especially if they aren’t right for you in the first place.
It’s a common trap. You see a new ingredient online, add it to your regimen, and before you know it, your skin is overwhelmed.
Stick to the essentials: a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer, and sunscreen. From there, you can build slowly, adding targeted products one at a time. This approach gives your skin a chance to adjust and makes it easier to spot what’s working (and what’s not).
It’s always best to check in with Dr. Smith before starting a new skincare regimen. We know your skin and its needs, and can help you build the perfect lineup of products.
Your face isn’t the only place that shows signs of aging. The skin on your neck and chest is thin and delicate, and it’s often exposed to the sun just as much as your face. Yet, it’s one of the most overlooked areas.
Whatever you’re doing for your face — cleansing, moisturizing, applying SPF — extend it down to your neck and chest. A few extra seconds can make a big difference in how your skin ages over time.
It’s hard to resist, but picking at pimples or blackheads can lead to scarring, pigmentation, and more breakouts. If a breakout is stubborn or painful, spot treatments or professional extractions in our office are a safer (and cleaner) solution.
DIY routines are great, but they can only do so much. Many people don’t see lasting improvements because they’re missing the bigger picture: personalized care.
Our dermatologists identify what your skin truly needs and help you cut through the noise of endless product options.
Regular check-ins with us can prevent minor issues from becoming long-term concerns. Whether it’s acne, sun damage, sensitivity, or fine lines, expert guidance saves time, money, and frustration.
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated to work. Often, the biggest improvements come from removing what’s not serving your skin, not adding more.
If your skin’s been sending signals that something’s off, it might be time to simplify, reset, and maybe schedule that dermatologist visit you’ve been putting off.
Call or click to schedule a consultation with the team at our Decatur, Georgia, office today.