Your skin works hard for you every day — but some everyday habits could be making its job harder without you realising. The good news? Once you spot these sneaky culprits, you can make simple swaps that leave your skin healthier, calmer, and glowing. Here’s how.
1. Washing Your Face with Hot Water
Hot water might feel relaxing, but it strips away your skin’s natural oils, leaving it tight and dehydrated.
The fix: Use lukewarm water instead, and follow with a nourishing cleanser. A gentle balm cleanser (like Bristolmade’s Chamomile & Geranium Cleansing Balm) melts away makeup and impurities without upsetting your skin’s natural barrier.
2. Over-Exfoliating
We’ve all been tempted to “scrub away” dullness — but exfoliating too often can leave your skin irritated, red, and more prone to breakouts.
The fix: Limit exfoliation to 1–2 times per week, and opt for a mild exfoliant. Always moisturise after to keep your skin barrier strong.
3. Sleeping on Dirty Pillowcases
Your pillowcase collects sweat, oils, and bacteria that can clog pores and trigger breakouts.
The fix: Wash your pillowcases at least once a week. For sensitive skin, choose breathable, natural fabrics like organic cotton or bamboo.
4. Forgetting to Hydrate
When you’re dehydrated, your skin is one of the first places to show it — think dryness, fine lines, and a lack of plumpness.
The fix: Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or water-rich foods like cucumber and berries. Lock in hydration with a lightweight facial oil before bed.
5. Touching Your Face Throughout the Day
Every time you rest your chin in your hand or adjust your glasses, you’re transferring dirt and bacteria onto your skin.
The fix: Keep hands away from your face as much as possible, and clean your phone screen regularly to avoid “tech breakouts.”
6. Skipping Your Evening Cleanse
Falling asleep with the day’s grime, makeup, and SPF still on your skin is a recipe for clogged pores and dullness.
The fix: Make cleansing part of your wind-down routine. Keep a jar of cleansing balm by the sink so it’s easy to reach for — the richer texture can even make it feel like a mini facial.
7. Ignoring Your Neck and Chest
Your face might get all the skincare love, but your neck and décolletage are just as exposed to sun and environmental stress.
The fix: Whatever you do for your face — cleansing, moisturising, SPF — extend it down to your chest. You’ll thank yourself in 10 years.
Final Thought
Great skin isn’t about perfection — it’s about daily habits that protect and support your skin’s natural balance. Small swaps, done consistently, can transform your complexion without a complicated routine.