In our daily skincare routines, we often focus on cleansing, moisturizing, and applying various products to improve the health and appearance of our skin. However, there are some crucial skin hygiene tips and habits which you can include in your healthy skincare routine - to avoid skin irritation, breakouts, and other skin concerns.

7 hygiene habits you're neglecting in your skincare routine

1. Not washing your hands before touching your face: Our hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day, and they can easily transfer bacteria and other germs to our skin. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before touching your face to avoid introducing harmful microbes to your skin.

2. Not regularly cleaning your makeup brushes and sponges: Makeup brushes and sponges can harbor bacteria and other germs, which can be transferred to your skin each time you use them. Be sure to clean your brushes and sponges at least once a week using a gentle brush cleanser or soap and warm water.

3. Not sanitising your phone: Our phones are another surface that we come into contact with frequently, and they can also harbour bacteria and germs. Use a disinfectant wipe or spray to clean your phone regularly to prevent it from transferring bacteria to your skin.

4. Not washing your pillowcases and towels regularly: Pillowcases and towels can accumulate dirt, oil, and bacteria over time, so it's important to wash them regularly. Aim to wash your pillowcases at least once a week and your towels every three to four days.

5. Not changing your skincare products regularly: Skincare products can expire and lose their effectiveness over time, so it's important to check the expiration dates on your products and replace them as needed. This is especially important for products that come into contact with your eyes or mouth, such as eye cream and lip balm.

6. Not properly storing your skincare products: Proper storage is important for maintaining the effectiveness of your skincare products. Keep them out of direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, and be sure to close the lids tightly to prevent contamination.

7. Not removing your makeup before bed: Leaving makeup on overnight can clog skin pores and lead to breakouts, so it's important to remove it every night before bed. Use a gentle makeup remover and wash your face with a cleanser to remove all traces of makeup.

How does skin hygiene affect your skin health?

#1 Increased risk of irritation or infection

When you apply skincare products to dirty or contaminated skin, you are more likely to develop irritation, redness, or even infections. This can be particularly problematic if you are using skincare products that contain active ingredients or natural oils, which can be more prone to bacterial growth.

#2 Reduced effectiveness of skincare products

Skincare products are designed to work in specific ways, and when you use them incorrectly or in a contaminated environment, their effectiveness can be reduced. For example, if you are using skincare products that require a specific pH balance, and you apply them to dirty or contaminated skin, the pH balance can be disrupted, which can make the products less effective.

#3 Spoiled or contaminated skincare products

When skincare products are not stored or used properly, they can become contaminated or spoiled. This can make the products less effective, and in some cases, they can even cause irritation or infection if used on the skin. For example, if you use a skincare product that has been sitting in a warm, damp environment, the product can become contaminated with bacteria or mold, which can make it unsafe to use.

#4 Clogged pores and breakouts

If you are using skincare products that are past their expiration date, or if you are applying them to dirty or contaminated skin, you are more likely to develop clogged pores and breakouts. This is because the old or contaminated products can trap dirt and bacteria in your pores, which can cause irritation, redness, and breakouts.

#5 Dry, flaky, or damaged skin

Neglecting hygiene in your skincare routine can also lead to dry, flaky, or damaged skin. This can be due to a number of factors, such as using skincare products that are past their expiration date, using products that are not suitable for your skin type, or using products that contain harsh ingredients that can strip your skin of its natural oils. It is always best practice to consult dermatologist before trying any new skin care product. At Clinikally, we provide online dermatologist consultation where you can book an appointment with doctor from the convenience of your home and get personalized treatment plan and recommendations.  

#6 Premature aging or uneven skin tone

When you neglect hygiene in your skincare routine, you are more likely to develop premature aging or uneven skin tone. This can be due to a number of factors, such as using skincare products that are not suitable for your skin type, using products that are past their expiration date, or using products that contain harsh ingredients that can damage your skin over time.

#7 Allergic reactions or sensitivities

Finally, neglecting hygiene in your skincare routine can also lead to allergic reactions or sensitivities. This can be due to a number of factors, such as using skincare products that contain ingredients that you are allergic to, using products that are past their expiration date, or using products that are not suitable for your skin type. In some cases, these allergic reactions or sensitivities can be severe and require medical attention.

Improve skin health with healthy skin hygiene!

Overall, it is important to maintain good hygiene in your skincare routine to avoid these potential side effects and ensure that your skincare products are safe and effective.