Using too many products
Anti-aging, peptides, Retinol in ANY form, Hyaluronic Acid, Toners, astringents, scrubs and ‘triple-action’ gels might sound effective but young adult (and into your 20's) skin doesn’t need an assault. Overdoing it can damage the skin barrier and that leads to more oiliness, redness, soreness and breakouts.
FIX: Stick to the essentials: gentle cleanser, oil free moisturiser and a targeted spot gel / Hydrocolloid patch only when needed.
NOT moisturising because of oily skin
"If my skin is oily, I don’t need moisturiser."
No. In fact if you don't use moisturiser, it can trigger your skin to produce more oil.
FIX: Use a lightweight, oil free moisturiser that will support the skin barrier.
Touching your face all the time
Phones, fingers, pillowcases and sleeves all carry bacteria. If you're applying spot treatments with dirty hands or constantly touching your face in class or while scrolling, it transfers bacteria to your skin.
FIX: Wash your hands before touching your face or use a sanitising gel on the fingers before applying products.
'Popping' or Squeezing Spots
It’s tempting but it delays healing, pushes bacteria deeper into your pore and can lead to scarring.
FIX: Use hydrocolloid patches to speed up healing, protect the area and stop the picking!
NOT washing after PE or sport
Sweat + oil + bacteria = ideal conditions for spots, especially on the back and shoulders.
FIX: A simple rinse helps more than most people realise. Use a roll on deodorant / anti-perspirant.
'More foam’ means ‘more clean’?
The amount of foam is irrelevant to the effectiveness of a product when it comes to cleansing your face or washing your hair.
FIX: Use a gentle, low-foam cleanser and shampoo.
Ignoring your scalp and hair care
Greasy hair, styling products and infrequent washing can contribute to breakouts along the forehead and hairline.
FIX: Regular shampooing (especially if you’re using styling products) and making sure any conditioner is completely rinsed out.
Young Adult and teenage skin needs consistency, clean fingertips and evidence-based care, not miracle claims or actives for older skin.
Keep it simple, be kind to your skin and if you’re not sure what’s working and perhaps more importantly, what's not working, change one thing at a time.
You can always use the contact form and ask me any questions directly - I'm always here for your concerns, queries and cosmetic science questions. Everything is confidential.
