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Let’s be real

If your skin still isn’t giving you that glowy, healthy look you want, it might not be your products — it could be your habits. Some skincare routines that used to be popular are now major no-nos. Let’s go through the skincare mistakes you should leave behind in 2025 (and what to do instead for that glow).

1. Using Makeup Wipes as Your Only Cleanser

Makeup wipes might seem like a quick fix, but they don’t fully clean your skin. They usually just smear dirt and makeup around and can even leave behind irritating chemicals. If you’re serious about clear skin, ditch the wipes and double cleanse: start with an oil-based cleanser to break down makeup and sunscreen, then follow with a gentle water-based cleanser.

2. Over-Exfoliating Your Skin

Scrubbing your face every day can wreck your skin barrier, causing redness, sensitivity, and breakouts. In 2025, less is more. Limit chemical exfoliation (like AHA/BHA toners) to 2–3 times a week, and skip harsh physical scrubs altogether unless they’re super gentle.

3. Skipping Sunscreen When It’s Cloudy or You’re Inside

SPF isn’t just for sunny beach days — UV rays can still damage your skin through windows and on cloudy days. Daily sunscreen is essential to prevent wrinkles, sunspots, and even serious skin issues. Find a lightweight sunscreen you love so you actually want to apply it every morning.

4. Picking at Pimples

We all get tempted to pop that one annoying spot, but picking can push bacteria deeper into your skin and cause scars. Instead, apply a pimple patch, a spot treatment with salicylic acid, or even just ice the area to reduce swelling. Hands off, bestie!

5. Applying Skincare Products in the Wrong Order

If you layer products incorrectly, they won’t work as well. The rule? Start with the thinnest textures (like serums) and build up to thicker ones (like creams and oils). Think of it like dressing your skin in layers: lightweight stuff first so it can actually sink in.

6. Skipping Moisturizer If You Have Oily Skin

It sounds backward, but oily skin still needs hydration! When you skip moisturizer, your skin can overcompensate by producing even more oil. The move? Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturizer that hydrates without feeling heavy or greasy.

7. Forgetting About Your Neck and Hands

Most people focus only on their face, but your neck and hands are some of the first places to show signs of aging. Extend your skincare routine down your neck and onto the backs of your hands — especially when applying sunscreen and moisturizer.

8. Sleeping in Your Makeup

Even if it’s “just a little mascara” or “only concealer,” makeup traps dirt and oil in your pores overnight. Plus, it speeds up aging and dulls your complexion. Always cleanse before bed — no matter how tired you are.

9. Using Expired Skincare Products

Yes, your skincare actually expires! Using old products can cause irritation, breakouts, or just make them completely ineffective. If something smells weird, looks separated, or has changed color, toss it. It’s not worth risking your skin.

10. Blindly Copying TikTok Skincare Trends

Not every viral skincare hack is safe — or right for your skin type. Before you try a DIY mask or a new 10-step routine you saw online, do a little research or check if it’s dermatologist-approved. Your skin is unique, and copying someone else’s routine might do more harm than good.

The Final Glow-Up

Good skin isn’t just about buying the next hyped product — it’s about building habits that protect and nourish your skin daily. Ditch these outdated skincare habits in 2025, and your future self (and skin) will thank you. You can also check out my blog on some lip products that I believe live up to the hype!