10 common ‘skin sins’ and how to combat them (yes, you need to wash your pillowcase more)

Posted on 21 July, 2023

Skin sins. We’re all guilty of them. Whether you’re a serial over-user of active ingredients or don’t wash your face after a night out, we all have areas we know we could improve on.

For easy ways to combat the outcomes of these skin sins (and what they might mean for the health of your skin in the long-term), we asked the experts at Artisan Clinics.

If some of these skin sins ring true, there’s never been a better time to get them sorted with a winter skin sale now happening at Artisan Clinics, where you can save 33% across a range of treatments.

Skin sin #1: Not removing makeup after a big night out

Not removing makeup at night will commonly lead to congestion, breakouts and build-up on the skin.

Using the correct cleansing routine and applying a serum and moisturiser will remove congestion-causing build-up and maintain the skin’s integrity. A great treatment for these serial skin sinners would be a Deluxe HydraFacial.

Skin sin #2: Popping blackheads 

When you pop blackheads, you are essentially creating trauma to the skin and the bacteria from your hands and nails then transfer to the skin’s surface which will cause breakouts and infection.

Extractions (removing blackheads) done in a clinical setting, ensures you are not causing unnecessary damage to your skin or creating more congestion by not fully removing or spreading bacteria. Resist the urge and leave it to the pros!

For a serial offender, having a treatment plan mapped out with your dermal therapist of your next few months of treatments is a good way to treat the cause and encourage you to keep your hands off your face knowing you have your monthly refresh just around the corner.

Skin sin #3: Not cleaning makeup brushes enough

Not cleaning makeup brushes clogs the brush, which harbours bacteria. This will then clog the skin and create congestion and sometimes even irritated and sensitive skin.

Using an antibacterial cleanser weekly for brushes is essential.

Skin sin #4: Being a serial active ingredients over-user

Overusing active ingredients leads to a dry, stripped skin with an impaired skin barrier function.

The top recommendation is a consultation with a clinician to get professional advice on how often you personally should be using actives. This will also give you a chance to get clear on your skin goals and what you need to achieve them.

Doubling up on products that treat the same concern will be taking a toll on your skin barrier and bank balance!

Skin sin: #5: Skipping moisturiser!

Moisturiser is so important, it provides additional moisture to soften and support the skin, plus it seals everything in, including your skin’s natural oils that help to keep it balanced.

If there is a reason you are skipping moisturiser (too heavy feeling? Or don’t think you need it?) your dermal therapist can help find one you will love, and your skin will love you for it!

Skin sin #6: Taking makeup off with wipes 

Using wipes can be rough and abrasive on your skin whilst not actually removing makeup properly. This can lead to blocked pores and congestion.

An alternative that is more thorough but gentler on the skin is a double cleanse, such as Rationale’s #4 pre-cleanse balm and then #4 the cleanser to ensure a thorough cleanse of all dirt, oil, and make up that the skin has built up throughout the day.

Skin sin #7: Not wearing sunscreen regularly

80% of ageing is caused by sun damage so wearing SPF is the most vital step to prevent sun damage and ageing.

The best SPF is the one you will wear every day, so if you struggle to use SPF daily, choose a combined product like Ultraceuticals MD SPF50+, which combines a daily moisturiser and SPF in one product.

Skin sin #8: Not washing your pillowcase enough

Relaxing into bed after a long day is always great, but keep in mind that bacteria and the like live on bedding and transfer to the skin, along with product residue and natural oils from your hair.

Continued exposure to these throughout the night can contribute to skin concerns such as acne, congestion, and dermatitis.

Aim to wash or change your pillowcase once a week.

Skin sin #9: Not exfoliating (or not knowing which way works best for you)

Exfoliating is a vital step in your routine to ensure that you are removing dead skin cells. It will also help to prevent congestion and ensure you get the best penetration from your other actives.

Using a cleanser with active ingredients for your nightly cleanse is a simple way to incorporate gentle exfoliation into your routine without an added step.

Where possible, a monthly or even bi-monthly professional treatment, such as a HydraFacial takes care of that step for you with big results in as little as 30 minutes!

Skin sin #10: Doing your skincare routine in a hot shower

Hot water can be stripping to the skin and in some people, increase the occurrence of broken capillaries or flare-ups in those prone to conditions like Rosacea or Eczema.

If cleansing at the basin is not an option for you, try to turn the water temperature and pressure down when you will be directly washing your face or try splashing the water onto your face.

Remember—the skin on the face is more delicate than the rest of the body, so adjust accordingly!