The Biggest Skincare Mistakes That Are Speeding Up Ageing (And How to Fix Them)
You may have heard that “age is just a number,” but when it comes to skin health, that number can mean the difference between smooth skin and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While we’re unable to slow down the march of time, your skincare routine can either accelerate or decelerate the ageing process. From habits that undermine skin health to missed opportunities for restoration, there are a few key skincare missteps that might be speeding up the ageing process.
Fortunately, it’s never too late to correct these mistakes. With a refined skincare approach, an emphasis on nutrition, and the right supplements, you can discover your best skin yet. Our award-winning, clinically tested Morning & Night supplement contains a carefully calibrated blend of 28 Vitamins, Minerals, Amino Acids, Adaptogens and Omega 3s for better skin, sleep, energy immunity and more. In our independent, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 92% of participants reported better skin, hair and nails with the support of Morning & Night.
Mistake #1: Skipping Sunscreen (Even On Cloudy Days)
We tend to think of sunscreen as a summer necessity or for sunny vacations, but daily sun protection is crucial year-round. According to a 2021 study published in JAMA Dermatology, ultraviolet (UV) exposure is the leading cause of premature skin ageing, including wrinkles, sun spots, and a breakdown in skin elasticity. UV rays, whether from direct sunlight or artificial light, damage collagen and elastin in the skin, resulting in sagging and increased signs of ageing.
Dr. Jessica Wu, a board-certified dermatologist, explains: “UV rays are one of the most damaging factors for your skin. They break down the collagen and elastin fibers, which are essential for maintaining a youthful, firm complexion. Skipping sunscreen is one of the worst things you can do to accelerate ageing.”
The Fix: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day, even when it’s overcast or you’re indoors. Dermatologists recommend choosing a sunscreen that also provides protection against UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, wearing hats and sunglasses can provide extra shielding.
Mistake #2: Over-exfoliating (Stripping Your Skin of Vital Oils)
Exfoliation is an essential part of any skincare routine – after all, it removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover, which is crucial for a fresh, glowing complexion. However, over-exfoliating can do more harm than good. When you exfoliate too often or use harsh scrubs, you risk stripping the skin of its natural oils, which are vital for maintaining hydration, elasticity, and protection. This can lead to dry, irritated skin and even exacerbate fine lines and wrinkles. Our Skin Nutrients Facial Oil hydrates skin with an award-winning blend of 32 of the world’s most powerful plant extracts and oils.
A 2020 study in The Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that over-exfoliation can cause the skin’s protective barrier to break down, which accelerates ageing by making the skin more susceptible to environmental stressors.
The Fix: Exfoliate no more than two to three times a week, and opt for gentle exfoliants that contain alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) instead of abrasive scrubs. These chemical exfoliants help slough off dead skin without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Mistake #3: Neglecting to Hydrate (Internally and Externally)
Dehydrated skin makes fine lines more noticeable and gives the skin a dull, tired appearance. While moisturizers are essential, many people overlook hydration from the inside out. Hydration is not just about what you apply topically, but also what you consume. Our Morning & Night supplement provides support to skin at a cellular level, while our Skin Nutrients Facial Oil provides an instant hydration hit with an award-winning blend of 32 of the world’s most powerful plant extracts and oils.
According to a 2020 study published in Dermato-Endocrinology, chronic dehydration significantly impacts the skin’s appearance, contributing to the formation of fine lines and a lack of plumpness. The skin needs water to maintain its elasticity and natural glow, and it’s important to replenish both internally (through hydration) and externally (through topical products).
The Fix: Start by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Experts recommend at least eight glasses (about 2 liters) per day, but you may need more depending on your activity level.
Mistake #4: Ignoring Sleep (The Skin’s Repair Time)
It’s easy to overlook the impact of poor sleep on your skin, but your nightly rest is when your body (and your skin) goes into repair mode. During sleep, cell regeneration happens at its highest rate, and skin repairs damage caused by environmental factors like pollution and UV exposure. Inadequate sleep, on the other hand, can lead to puffiness, dullness, and accelerated skin ageing. A 2017 study published in Sleep found that sleep deprivation resulted in a noticeable increase in skin roughness and fine lines.
To make matters worse, a lack of sleep also leads to higher cortisol levels, which increases inflammation and triggers the breakdown of collagen, the protein responsible for maintaining skin firmness.
The Fix: Aim for at least 7-9 hours of quality sleep every night. To improve sleep quality, consider supplements like Glycine, an amino acid that promotes deep, restful sleep. A 2016 study published in Frontiers in Neurology found that glycine supplementation improved sleep quality and overall health, indirectly benefiting skin rejuvenation. Magnesium and Zinc are also known for their calming properties and their ability to improve sleep quality. Our Morning & Night supplement contains Glycine, Magnesium and Zinc, and it’s been clinically tested with proven results. In our independent, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 84% of participants reported better sleep, fewer night wakings and improved daytime energy.
Mistake #5: Focusing Only on the Skin and Forgetting About Supplements
While topical skincare is crucial, it’s equally important to nourish your skin from the inside. Supplements can provide essential vitamins and minerals that may be missing from your diet, directly supporting skin health.
For example, Biotin, often recommended for hair growth, also supports skin health by promoting cell regeneration. Vitamin D helps maintain the skin’s barrier function and supports immune function, which is key for preventing inflammation and skin irritation. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that help keep the skin hydrated and reduce redness. Vitamin A helps support skin renewal, while Selenium has antioxidant properties that protect against UV-induced damage.
The Fix: Incorporate supplements like Biotin, Omega-3s, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D into your routine for holistic skin support. Taking Glycine before bed can also improve sleep, which in turn allows the skin to regenerate effectively. Our Morning & Night supplement contains a carefully calibrated blend of 28 nutrients, with proven benefits to skin, sleep, energy, hormones, immunity and more.
Correct Your Mistakes for Glowing Skin
Even if you’re guilty of all five skincare mistakes, the good news is that glowing skin is just a few skincare adjustments away. By avoiding common skincare mistakes – like neglecting sunscreen, over-exfoliating, and ignoring hydration – you can protect your skin and maintain your glow, no matter your age. Be sure to complement your topical skincare routine with a nutrient-rich diet and targeted supplements, like our clinically tested Morning & Night supplement, and you’ll enjoy benefits to skin that you (and everyone around you) will notice.