We all know the basics: cleanse, moisturise, sunscreen, repeat. But here's the truth: even the most devoted skincare lover can unknowingly do things every day to unravel their skin goals. I'm talking about those little habits that seem harmless until you realise they've been sneakily causing dryness, breakouts, or irritation.

Let's spill the tea on five of the most common skin saboteurs, and we won't leave you hanging; we'll tell you how to fix them, too.

1. Over-Cleansing Your Skin

We've been told "clean skin is healthy skin," but too much cleansing (or using harsh cleansers) can strip your skin of the natural oils it needs to stay balanced and hydrated. If your face feels squeaky-clean or tight after washing, it's probably a sign you've gone too far.

Why it's bad: Over-cleansing disrupts your skin's protective barrier, making it more prone to dryness, redness, and even breakouts.

Quick fix: Stick to cleansing once in the morning with a gentle pH-balanced cleanser, and double cleanse in the evening. First to remove the day, and the second to deliver some nourishing goodness.

2. Touching your face (more than you think)

We all do it (did you just pull your hand away?) We rest our chin in our hands, rub our eyes, or absent-mindedly scratch our cheeks. The problem? Our hands carry bacteria, dirt, and oils that transfer straight onto your face. Oops.

Why it's bad: This can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and skin irritation, especially if you're prone to acne.

Quick fix: Be mindful of how often you touch your face and keep your hands clean. If you can't break the habit, keep a hand cream nearby so that at least your hands are soft and clean when they sneak in a gentle caress.

3. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase

How often do you change your pillowcase? Think about it: it collects sweat, oil, and leftover skincare or makeup residue every single night. Then you lie on it for another (hopefully uninterrupted) seven to eight hours, pressing all that back into your skin.

Why it's bad: It can contribute to breakouts, dullness, and even irritation - especially if you have sensitive skin.

Quick fix: Wash your pillowcases at least once a week (more if you have oily or acne-prone skin). Bonus tip: Silk pillowcases are gentler on skin and hair, helping to reduce friction and morning creases.

4. Using too-hot, hot, hot water

That steaming shower feels amazing, especially on those chilly winter mornings, but your skin might disagree. Hot water can strip away natural oils, leaving skin dry, tight, and sometimes flaky.

Why it's bad: It weakens the skin barrier and can trigger flare-ups if you have conditions like eczema or rosacea.

Quick fix: Go for lukewarm water when cleansing your face, and keep showers warm, not scorching. Your skin (and hair) will thank you. If you’re feeling extra brave, why not finish your shower off with cold water! So good for your circulatory system, and healthy blood flow means better skin!

5. Forgetting your neck and chest

You've discovered our Skin Goal Sets, you've got your skincare routine down, but it stops at your jawline? Your neck and décolletage are just as exposed to the sun, pollution, and ageing as your face.

Why it's bad: Neglecting these areas can lead to uneven skin tone, dryness, and signs of premature ageing.

Quick fix: Whatever you do for your face (cleanse, moisturise, apply SPF), take it all the way down to your chest. Actually, why don't you start there and work your way up?

It's the Little Things

Small changes make a big difference. Swapping a too-harsh cleanser for a gentle one, keeping your pillowcases fresh, or simply remembering to care for your neck can all help keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

And remember: your skincare routine is only as good as your daily habits. So if you've been doing any of these without realising… now's the perfect time to switch things up.