Avoid 7 big skincare mistakes, warns expert – breaking a ‘rule of 3’ can trigger signs of aging like wrinkles & sagging
A SKINCARE expert has revealed the common mistakes that can cause visible signs of aging.
Lisa Kavanagh said an easily overlooked step in nighttime beauty routines can trigger fine lines and wrinkles to appear.
Kavanagh is the founder of Sphagnum De-Lux, a UK-based skincare brand specializing in products that contain peat moss.
She said there’s a lot of misinformation about anti-aging online that could worsen skin.
“While getting wrinkles and lines is natural as we start to age, following the wrong types of skincare will cause accelerating aging and damaged skin,” she said.
Kavanagh revealed seven skincare mistakes to avoid for a youthful-looking appearance.
SKIPPING SERUMS
She said it’s “essential” to regularly use a cream or serum on the skin around the eyes.
As the area is thinner than most other parts of the body, “wrinkles, bags, and sagging” will appear without proper care.
LAYERING PRODUCTS
Kavanagh said the “rule of three” must be followed in skincare as using too many products at the same time can have adverse effects.
Among them is chronic inflammation which is a “significant trigger” of skin aging.
“This can result in a breakdown of collagen and elastin, which can cause wrinkles and sagging,” she said.
SLEEPING IN MAKEUP
Kavanagh said it’s common to accidentally forget to remove makeup at night.
However, going to sleep wearing products such as mascara or concealer can damage the skin.
“Leaving it on can lead to accelerated aging as it breaks down collagen and results in fine lines and wrinkles,” she said.
LACK OF MOISTURIZER
Kavanagh revealed that there’s one area of the body that’s often overlooked when applying skincare products.
“Many understand the importance of moisturizing the face but they seem to forget how essential it is to apply it to your neck,” she said.
Using piping hot water can make your skin extremely dry which can damage the skin barrier and cause wrinkling and lines.
Lisa Kavanagh
“The lack of moisture can result in ‘neck rings’ which can cause sagging and horizontal lines.”
OVER EXFOLIATING
Kavanagh said skin should only be exfoliated three times a week.
“It’s healthy to exfoliate your skin but doing it too often can destroy your skin barrier which can lead to dryness and irritation, ultimately causing accelerated aging,” she said.
NOT WEARING SUNSCREEN
Kavanagh warned that it’s “vital” to wear SPF when leaving the house, especially on the face and neck.
“Sun exposure can significantly age your skin and produce dark spots, which can cause premature aging,” she said.
WASHING WITH HOT WATER
Kavanagh revealed skin can become “extremely dry” and damaged by using “piping hot water” when washing the face.
She said this would trigger the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
“Make sure only to use hot water occasionally in order to help open up pores, otherwise, stick to lukewarm for daily cleanses,” she said.