Although skin cleansing is the most basic step in beauty routines, it is also the stage where the most mistakes are made. This is because many people have the mistaken belief that "more cleansing = better results." However, the skin is a living organ with its own natural balance, pH level, and microflora. When this balance is disturbed, no matter what product is used, the skin cannot achieve a healthy appearance.
Milli.Az presents the most common mistakes related to skin cleansing:
Washing the skin until it feels "tight" like it’s been "rubbed"
This feeling is sometimes perceived as "complete cleanliness," but in reality, it means the natural oily layer protecting the skin has completely disappeared. This lipid layer is the main barrier that protects the moisture of the skin and shields it from external impacts. When this layer is damaged, the skin becomes dry, tightens, becomes sensitive, and premature aging accelerates over time. The key should be a feeling of comfort, not just cleanliness—the skin should remain both clean and soft and moist.
Using the same products morning and evening
The skin has a biological rhythm: in the morning, it aims to protect itself, and in the evening, it aims to repair. Therefore, the cleansing routine shouldn’t be the same during the day and at night.
Morning: A light, pH-balanced gel is sufficient.
Evening: The ideal method is a two-step cleansing—first, removing makeup and sunscreen residues with an oil-based cleanser, then completely cleansing the skin with a water-based cleanser.
This method also helps active ingredients penetrate the skin better.
Improper frequency of applying peeling
Peeling cleans dead cells and supports cell renewal, but excessive use weakens the skin’s defense system.
Oily skin: twice a week
Dry and sensitive skin: once a week is enough
Peeling is not care, but an exfoliation process. Excessive application thins the skin and increases the risk of spots.
Washing the face with hot water
Hot water damages the skin’s lipid barrier and reduces its moisture. It especially increases redness and burning sensations in sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.
The best method: washing briefly with lukewarm water and drying the skin gently without rubbing with a towel.
Leaving the cleanser on the skin for a long time
Cleanners are not made to treat the skin but merely to remove dirt and residues. Leaving them on like a mask may cause irritation.
Contact between the product and skin for 20-30 seconds is enough. Moisturizer should be applied immediately after cleansing.
Excessive use of peeling
Especially chemical peels make the skin appear smooth in the short term but weaken the protective barrier in the long term. This makes the skin more sensitive to UV rays. Strong moisturization and at least SPF 30 protection are mandatory after every peel.
Applying the same skincare to everyone
Every skin type is different. The same product may give fantastic results on one person but cause irritation on another.
Without skin analysis, standard cleansing rules do not suit everyone. The skin reacts variably to seasons, stress, and nutrition.
Not adhering to sterilization rules
It is very important that devices used in professional care are sterile. Non-sterile tools can cause infection. At home, makeup brushes, towels, and devices should also be disinfected regularly.
Incorrect combination of active ingredients
Ingredients such as retinol, AHA, BHA, vitamin C, and niacinamide can cause serious irritation if not used properly.
Retinol + AHA/BHA should not be used together
Vitamin C should be used alone in the morning
Niacinamide should not be mixed with strong acids
The skin is not a chemistry lab—simple routines yield better results.
Applying makeup immediately after care
After care, the skin is more permeable, and makeup can more easily clog pores. If possible, the skin should be given at least 12 hours of rest.
