The Ultimate Dos and Don’ts of Facial Skincare

Want better skin? Follow these expert skincare dos and don’ts to avoid common mistakes and build a routine that works.

Whether you're a skincare newbie or a seasoned self-care pro, understanding the basics of facial skincare can make all the difference in your results. Great skin isn’t just about what you use—it’s also about how you use it. Here are the top dos and don’ts to help you achieve radiant, healthy skin.

The DOs of Facial Skincare

1. Do cleanse your face daily

Cleansing twice a day—morning and night—removes dirt, oil, makeup, and bacteria that build up throughout the day. Use a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser suited for your skin type.

2. Do use sunscreen every single day

UV rays can damage skin year-round, even on cloudy days. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 every morning, especially if you're using exfoliants or acne treatments.

3. Do exfoliate (gently!)

Exfoliating 1–3 times per week removes dead skin cells and helps products absorb better. Use chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs, or gentle physical scrubs if tolerated.

4. Do moisturize—even if you’re oily

All skin types need hydration. Skipping moisturizer can cause oily skin to overproduce sebum. Choose a lightweight gel or oil-free formula if you're prone to breakouts.

5. Do follow a consistent routine

Consistency matters more than product hype. Stick to your routine for at least 4–6 weeks to evaluate its effects before switching things up.

6. Do see a professional

Estheticians and dermatologists can recommend treatments, help with stubborn issues like acne or melasma, and offer services (like facials or peels) that boost your routine.

The DON’Ts of Facial Skincare

1. Don’t sleep in your makeup

Makeup clogs pores, traps oil and dirt, and can speed up skin aging. Always cleanse your face before bed—even if you’re tired.

2. Don’t over-exfoliate

More isn’t better. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin barrier, causing redness, dryness, breakouts, or sensitivity. Stick to the recommended frequency.

3. Don’t pick at your skin

Popping pimples or picking flakes can lead to scarring, inflammation, or even infection. Use spot treatments instead, and leave extractions to the pros.

4. Don’t use harsh alcohol-based products

Many toners and astringents contain drying alcohols that strip the skin and disrupt its natural moisture barrier. Look for alcohol-free, hydrating formulas.

5. Don’t layer too many actives

Mixing ingredients like retinol, acids, and vitamin C without understanding their interactions can lead to irritation. Introduce one active at a time.

6. Don’t skip sunscreen after treatments

If you’ve had a facial, chemical peel, or microchanneling treatment, your skin is more vulnerable. Skipping sunscreen can undo all that hard work—and damage your skin.

Bonus Tip: Your Skin is Unique

Just because a product worked for someone else doesn’t mean it’s right for you. Learn your skin type (oily, dry, combination, sensitive) and choose your products accordingly.

Want a Personalized Skin Plan?

Professional treatments like facials, chemical peels, or microchanneling can jump-start your skin’s renewal process. Pair them with a good at-home routine for best results.