Top 5 Skincare Mistakes Teens Make (And How to Fix Them)
With most of us turning to Social Media sites like TikTok and Instagram for the latest beauty and skincare advice it's so easy to get conflicting information on what's best for our skin! What works for one person may be really bad for another and whilst a lot of it can come down to trial and error, we have researched the top 5 skincare makes we often use on our teenage skin and more importantly, what we can do to fix them for happier and healthier skin.
5 Skincare mistakes and how to fix them
Mistake 1: Using Harsh Products
When breakouts strike it can be horrible and it’s tempting to reach for the strongest products you can find. But using harsh cleansers or scrubs can damage your skin barrier, causing more irritation and breakouts. Over-drying your skin is a recipe for disaster.
How to Fix It: Switch to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin. Look for ingredients like salicylic acid or tea tree oil in moderation. Your skin will thank you!
Mistake 2: Skipping Moisturizer (Especially with Oily Skin)
It’s a common myth that oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer. But skipping this step can actually make your skin produce even more oil, which leads to more breakouts. Crazy, right?
How to Fix It: Find a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that’s non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores). Even oily skin needs hydration to stay balanced and healthy. If you want to go one step better, try to find a moisturiser that included sun protection.
Mistake 3: Not Wearing Sunscreen Daily
We get it—sunscreen feels greasy and it’s easy to forget when you’re rushing out the door. But skipping sunscreen can lead to long-term damage, like dark spots, sunburn, and premature aging (yes, even in your teens).
How to Fix It: Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ that’s designed for your face. There are lightweight, matte formulas out there that won’t leave you feeling sticky. Make it a habit! Try and find a facial moisturiser and foundation with sunscreen added in to save you some time.
Mistake 4: Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliating can make your skin feel super smooth, but doing it too often can lead to redness, dryness, and even more breakouts. Less is more when it comes to scrubs and exfoliants.
How to Fix It: Limit exfoliation to 2-3 times a week and opt for a chemical exfoliant like an AHA or BHA, which is gentler than scrubbing your face raw. Your skin needs time to recover between sessions.
Mistake 5: Not Removing Makeup Before Bed
It’s late, you’re tired, and removing makeup feels like a chore—but sleeping in makeup is a major no-no. It can clog your pores, leading to breakouts and dull skin.
How to Fix It: Keep makeup wipes or micellar water by your bed for those nights when you’re too tired for your full routine. It’s a quick fix that prevents a ton of skin issues.
The Bottom Line
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a huge difference in how your skin looks and feels. Stay gentle, be consistent, and most importantly, listen to what your skin needs. You’ve got this!
Have you been making any of these skincare mistakes? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below!
