A dermatologist has revealed the three mistakes people make when applying their skincare products – but you can breathe a sigh of relief because they all have an easy fix.
The crucial information was shared in a new video Posted on TikTok by a board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idrisswhich is based in New York City.
Dr. Idriss often uses her social media platforms to share her skincare knowledge, which also includes debunking common misinformation, as she did in this clip.
“So, you spent your money on skin care products, but your products don’t work,” the dermatologist began.
“Have you ever thought that maybe, just maybe, you are using your products incorrectly?” she asked.
Dr. Idriss, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, revealed the top three skincare mistakes she sees her patients making in a new TikTok video.
She explained that the following mistakes are the most common ones she sees in her own patients every day.
The first mistake the dermatologist shared was that people often don’t use exfoliating acids correctly.
Exfoliating acids work to remove dead skin cells, which can result in younger-looking skin and clear pores, according to Health line.
However, they’re not something you should use every day, Dr. Idriss shared.
“You can’t use an exfoliating acid as a toner, in a serum, in a wash, on a pad, at every step of your routine,” Dr. Idriss explained.
“And what’s worse, they are using it too frequently, meaning every day, or even twice a day,” he continued.
The dermatologist explained it all, telling viewers that by using too many exfoliating acids on a daily basis, you will “destroy” the skin barrier, which is the important outer layer of the skin that helps protect it from external irritants.
“It should be reserved only for nighttime hours, three or four times a week at the most,” he explained.
The dermatologist, pictured here with Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush, explained that by using too many exfoliating acids on a daily basis, you will “destroy” the skin barrier.
Next on their list of mistakes was people not properly adapting their skincare routines to the particular climate they live in (stock image)
Dr. Idriss reminded her viewers that not everything labeled “acid” means it’s exfoliating.
She clarified that exfoliating acids are AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acids or mandelic acids, for example.
Next on their list of mistakes was people not properly adapting their skincare routines to the particular climate they live in.
“You hydrate in the winter the same way you hydrate in the summer, you hydrate in the Caribbean the same way you would hydrate in Utah,” he explained.
Dr. Idriss said you should change your routine depending on the climate you live in because your skin is a living organ that “changes over time.”
Finally, the dermatologist warned that many people do not use their products for long enough to see results.
“I understand that every day there is a new brand that comes on the market that you want to try for fun, but consistency is what is important,” said Dr. Idriss.
“Continue with your routine diligently and religiously for at least two to three months before you can say it’s not for you,” she concluded.
In the comments section of her post, many admitted that her advice was helpful.
“I can really relate to what you said. I realized the product was good, but I’m doing it wrong by finding out that my skin doesn’t need to use it every day. I need to listen to my skin and know what it needs,” one person wrote.
Another agreed: “Girl, I’ve changed my routine so much thanks to your tips! My skin looks fabulous, thank you.”
“I followed your advice with glycolic acid. My acne around my mouth is finally clearing up after a year of trying! I tried doxycycline, tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid… You name it, I tried it,” another person wrote.
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