How to avoid common skincare mistakes

Among the organs of the body, the skin is one of the first to bear the brunt of sun, wind, cold, heat, humidity and pollution, leading to problems like sun tan, sun burn, dark patches, blackheads, pimples, acne, rash, dryness or skin-sensitivity.

- SHAHNAZ HUSAIN

If you make skin care mistakes, such problems are aggravated. Skin care should be according to the skin type and also according to the seasons. In summer, for example, the skin needs toners and refreshers, to close the pores, remove sweat deposits and refresh the skin. In winter, on the other hand, the skin needs moisturizers and emollients. But it can be a mistake to apply heavy creams on oily skin. A person with oily skin should apply oil-free products, like oil-free matte moisturiser, or gel-based sunscreen.

Most people with oily skin tend to wash their face frequently with soap and water, in the effort to reduce the oily look. This is actually a mistake. The soap may be too alkaline in nature and too much soap-and-water washing can disrupt the normal acid-alkaline (pH) balance of the skin. This leaves the skin prone to pimples and acne. A healthy skin is slightly more acid than alkaline.