5 Skincare Mistakes I See in My Practice (and How to Gently Fix Them)
1. Doing Too Much at Once
You’re cleansing, toning, layering vitamin C, exfoliating, adding niacinamide, retinol, and finishing with a sleeping mask — all in one night. Sound familiar?
This kind of “kitchen sink” routine often leads to breakouts, irritation, and a stressed-out skin barrier. In our pursuit of glow, we sometimes forget that skin thrives on balance — not overload.
💡 Try this instead: Focus on function. A gentle cleanser, a nourishing moisturizer, daily sunscreen, and one active ingredient at a time is more than enough. Introduce new products slowly, and give your skin space to respond. Consistency is more powerful than complexity.
2. Neglecting Your Skin Barrier
Many of us get caught up in what I call “correction mode” — constantly chasing brightness, smoothness, or clarity. But in doing so, we can forget to support the foundation of healthy skin: the barrier.
When your barrier is compromised, your skin may feel raw, flaky, or inflamed. It might sting when you apply products. And even trusted favorites can suddenly feel like too much.
💡 Try this instead: Choose a non-stripping cleanser and use it with intention (not aggression). Moisturize with ingredients that repair — think ceramides, niacinamide, and fatty acids. And if your skin feels like it needs a break from actives, honor that feeling. Rest is part of the routine.
3. Skipping Sunscreen
I hear this more often than you’d think:
“I work from home.”
“I don’t burn easily.”
“I have melanin — I thought I didn’t need SPF.”
But here’s the truth: UV rays and visible light affect everyone. They contribute to hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and yes, even skin cancer — regardless of skin tone.
💡 Try this instead: Make SPF 30 (or higher) a non-negotiable part of your morning ritual. For melanin-rich skin, look for a tinted sunscreen with iron oxides — it adds protection against visible light and can help with pigment control. Think of sunscreen as a daily act of protection, not perfection.
4. Treating Every Breakout Like an Emergency
A pimple appears — and suddenly, it’s war. Acids, spot treatments, toothpaste… we’ve all been there. But this reactive approach can backfire, leaving behind more irritation and sometimes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
💡 Try this instead: Acne isn’t an emergency. It’s a chronic skin condition that deserves a steady, preventative plan. That might include a gentle exfoliant 2–3 times a week, a calming retinoid routine, or simply staying consistent with your basics. Focus on soothing and strengthening the skin, not punishing it.
5. Having No Real Plan
One product from TikTok, another from Sephora, a third you saw in someone’s GRWM… but nothing is tailored to yourskin. It’s easy to end up with a shelf full of products and no clarity on what’s helping or hurting.
💡 Try this instead: Build a routine that matches your skin goals and lifestyle. Are you targeting acne? Sensitivity? Uneven tone? Start with the basics, add one active at a time, and be intentional about tracking your skin’s response. If it feels confusing, working with a professional can save you months (or years) of trial and error.
A Gentle Reset
Skincare isn’t about chasing every trend — it’s about learning what your skin needs, and meeting it with care.
Let’s recap:
Don’t overdo it with actives
Support your skin barrier
Wear SPF every morning
Avoid panic-treating breakouts
Build a thoughtful, consistent routine
If your skin feels overwhelmed, you’re not alone. A simple routine can be transformative. Through my virtual dermatology practice, I help women of color build routines that are simple, sustainable, and effective — no guesswork required.
You can learn more about one-on-one consults [here → insert link].
Closing Thoughts
Healthy skin isn’t perfect skin. It’s skin that feels supported, respected, and balanced.
If this post helped you take a step back and breathe — even just a little — I’m glad you’re here. Feel free to share it with someone who could use a soft reset of their own.
With warmth,
Dr. Tara
Board-Certified Dermatologist | Founder, TaraMD