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Dermatologist shares 8 mistakes to avoid for healthy skin
Social media is flooded with skincare hacks, but not all are beneficial
Maintaining healthy skin goes beyond using the right products—it also involves avoiding common mistakes that can quietly damage the skin over time.
According to Dr. Surbhi Balani, a dermatologist and cosmetologist based in Ahmedabad, everyday habits and viral skincare trends may be doing more harm than good.
In a recent social media post, Dr. Balani outlined eight practices she avoids in her own routine, urging people to rethink their approach to skincare.
One of the most critical mistakes, she said, is skipping sunscreen. Daily sun protection is essential to guard against harmful UV rays, which can cause premature aging, pigmentation, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
She also cautioned against the use of DIY remedies such as lemon or toothpaste on the skin, noting that these can disrupt the skin barrier and worsen issues like acne or sensitivity.
Similarly, relying on viral skincare hacks instead of evidence-based treatments may delay proper care for conditions such as acne, hyperpigmentation, and eczema.
Over-cleansing and using harsh soaps is another common error. While many associate squeaky-clean skin with good hygiene, excessive washing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Dr. Balani also emphasised the importance of extending skincare routines beyond the face to areas like the neck, chest, and hands, which are prone to early aging.
Other habits to avoid include rubbing the face dry with a towel and using potent active ingredients without proper guidance or gradual introduction.
As skincare trends continue to evolve online, experts stress the importance of sticking to simple, science-backed routines to maintain long-term skin health.
