The Do's and Don'ts of Skincare: Your Guide to a Healthy Glow
- meghan reilley
- Apr 7
- 2 min read

Let’s be honest — skincare can feel overwhelming. With endless product options, conflicting advice, and constantly changing trends, it’s easy to get lost in the noise. But don’t worry! Whether you’re a total beginner or a product junkie, sticking to a few key do’s and don’ts can make a world of difference.
Here’s your no-nonsense guide to building (and keeping!) a skincare routine that works.
✅ DO: Know Your Skin Type
Before you even think about buying a product, get to know your skin. Is it oily? Dry? Combination? Sensitive? Acne-prone? The products and ingredients that work best for you depend heavily on your skin type.
🔹 Tip: If your skin feels tight and flaky, it’s likely dry. If you’re shiny by noon, you’re probably on the oily side.
❌ DON’T: Overdo It
More is not always better. Over-exfoliating, layering too many actives, or switching products too often can actually do more harm than good. Your skin needs time to adjust!
🚫 Skip the 10-step routine (unless it truly works for you) and focus on the essentials:
Cleanser
Moisturizer
Sunscreen
Plus 1–2 targeted treatments (like for acne or pigmentation)
✅ DO: Wear Sunscreen Every. Single. Day.
Rain or shine, indoors or out, SPF is non-negotiable. UV rays are a major cause of premature aging, dark spots, and even skin cancer.
🔆 Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and don’t forget your neck, ears, and hands!
❌ DON’T: Sleep in Your Makeup
We know — some nights you’re just too tired. But sleeping in makeup clogs your pores and can lead to breakouts, irritation, and dull skin. No bueno.
🧼 Keep makeup remover wipes or micellar water by your bed for those emergency lazy nights.
✅ DO: Patch Test New Products
Before slathering a new serum or cream all over your face, test it on a small area first (like behind your ear or along your jawline). This can help prevent full-face freakouts.
❌ DON’T: Pop Pimples
We get it — it’s tempting. But squeezing can push bacteria deeper into the skin, leading to more breakouts, inflammation, or even scarring.
🧴 Use a spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide instead. If it’s a stubborn cyst, leave it to the pros.
✅ DO: Stay Consistent
Skincare is a marathon, not a sprint. Real results take time. Stick with your routine for at least 4–6 weeks before deciding if something works.
🕒 Consistency > Perfection.
❌ DON’T: Believe Every Trend on TikTok
DIY lemon masks? Toothpaste on pimples? Not everything viral is safe or effective. When in doubt, check with a dermatologist or licensed esthetician.
Your skin is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all formula. But by following these core do’s and don’ts, you’re setting yourself up for long-term skin health. Be kind to your skin — and yourself!
What’s one skincare mistake you wish you could un-do? Drop it in the comments!
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