By Naomi Salami

We are frequently told about skincare products that will give our skin that coveted glow. With the rise in popularity of skincare products over the years, many Nigerians now understand the value of having healthy skin and how it boosts self-esteem. Furthermore, many have incorporated natural products such as shea butter, coconut oil, aloe vera, and palm kernel oil into their daily or weekly skincare routines. Unfortunately, we have come to accept certain incorrect skincare routines and products that do more harm than good to our skin.

Dr Sonali Kohli, Consultant Dermatologist and Venereologist at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital and Research Centre, has identified seven risky skincare routines that you should avoid at all costs.

1. Stop applying toothpaste on your face

Keep in mind that many kinds of toothpaste contain baking soda, alcohol and hydrogen peroxide. These ingredients help to dry up pimples, but that doesn’t mean they’re good for your skin. Applying toothpaste to the skin causes skin irritation and dryness, and it increases the likelihood of further breakouts. Doing this will only exacerbate the problem rather than solving it. Instead, use certified acne treatment products.

2. Avoid constant use of lemon juice for skin brightening

Lemon juice contains vitamin C, which is a major ingredient that dermatologists recommend to their patients when advising them on products for skin brightening and wrinkle removal. Lemon juice also contains citric acid, which causes skin irritation, redness and sensitivity when used on sensitive skin, especially when used in its undiluted form.

3. Using hot water to open pores

This is common advice given by many fake skincare experts or friends who have little or no knowledge of skincare matters. Dr Sonali Kohli strongly advises against steaming the face with extremely hot water as this degrades the skin’s protein, rendering it defenceless against eczema, breakouts and skin irritation. To open pores, it is recommended that you cleanse your face with lukewarm water and then apply a skin serum afterwards.

4. Don’t use body lotion on the face

Do not try this, no matter how tempted you are. Yes, body lotions help to moisturise and give your skin a healthy glow, but products designed specifically for the face are completely different from those used on the body. They are thicker and heavier than facial beauty products and can clog your pores, resulting in severe breakouts and even rashes.

5. Not washing your face in the morning

Washing your face in the morning with lukewarm water should be a ritual you shouldn’t miss. Skipping your morning cleanse can leave your skin oily and dirty. It is recommended to cleanse your face twice a day, morning and night and not with harsh products that can destroy the protective coating of your skin.

6. Avoid use of abrasive scrubs on sensitive skin

Using abrasive scrubs on your skin can damage the skin’s protective barrier. The skin on your face is more delicate than the skin on your body. It is frequently exposed to environmental conditions, increasing its vulnerability. Harsh scrubs can harm your skin’s protective layer, especially if you have sensitive skin. It is advised to use gentle exfoliants or chemical exfoliants that are appropriate for your skin type.

7. Be careful with DIY products

DIY (do it yourself) products that may cause permanent damage to your skin, whether facial or body, should not be used. It should not be attempted without professional knowledge of skin care dos and don’ts, as well as the proper products to use without risking permanent skin damage. Harmful ingredients may be added to the mixture due to ignorance, or an incorrect ratio of ingredients may be added to the mixture. It is advisable to use professional-formulated products or consult a dermatologist before using homemade masks.

Lastly, skincare routines have become increasingly complicated over the years due to the number of steps some “experts” claim you must take to achieve flawless and glowing skin. The truth, however, lies in simplicity and the right amount of knowledge required to give you the glow you desire. Archaic or ignorant routines should be avoided, and everyone should be aware of their skin type and consult experts when in doubt.

Adapted from WION NEWS.

Meiza Nigeria