BY RITA OKOYE

Nowadays, self-care seems to be more important than ever. While the world around us continues to go through some health challenges, it’s really vital that we do things right to take care of ourselves, especially our skins.

Here are some of the most common skincare mistakes you’re probably making, and how to fix them to get glowing skin.

Sleeping on a dirty Pillowcase
Your pillowcase has a build up of oils, dirt, and sweat from daily use. This means they can harbor bacteria and cause allergies. In some cases, pillowcases can even damage your hair or skin.  Experts suggest washing your pillowcase at least every four days or less.

Not wearing SPF
Ask any dermatologist, esthetician, doctor or skincare expert – wearing daily Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a non-negotiable for skin health. It’s the best protection from skin cancer, and one of the easiest and most effective anti-ageing products to use.

Sleeping with Makeup On
One of the most common – and most harmful – skincare errors is not taking your makeup off at night time. There really is no excuse for forgetting to take off your makeup. A great trick to help fight this by keeping some makeup remover wipes next to your bed. That way you see it right before you go to bed so you don’t forget, or if you had a little too much ~fun after a night out, the makeup wipes are right there waiting for you.

Exfoliating Too Much

Over exfoliation can damage your skin’s moisture barrier, which in turn can result in a whole host of problems – like inflammation, acne, irritation and sensitivity. If you’re already using a retinoid regularly, you don’t need to be using a chemical exfoliant on top. And if you’re using a physical exfoliant like a clarisonic brush, you don’t need to follow that up with a glycolic acid toner.  Pick your favourite form of exfoliation, and do it a maximum of three times a week.

Changing Products Too Quickly
If you’re going to incorporate a new product into your routine, ease it in. Similarly, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it when you do. your skin, most especially your face will suffer the repercussions.

Constantly Touching Your Face
Get your friends, coworkers or sisters to call you out when they spot you touching your face and don’t pick at your blemishes in the mirror! Also, don’t pop your pimples. Just don’t. This might lead to a major break out,

Not Drinking Enough Water
Health experts commonly recommend eight 8-ounce glasses, which equals about 2 liters, or half a gallon a day. So, you have to make conscious efforts to have a bottle or cup of water by you at all times, especially during long days at work! Also have a glass or two of water before bed.

Forgetting to Wash Your Makeup Brushes
Wash your makeup brushes every two weeks with baby shampoo. Makeup brushes hold on to a lot of things besides your makeup, like bacteria and dead skin cells. And if you use a beauty blender- clean that even more often!