By Lakiera Thompson

We spend so much time taking extra care of our skin by doing multiple steps in our skincare routine, only to find out that we’re really damaging our skin. Most of the time, when it comes to skin, less is more. Over handling the skin, such as too much rubbing or touching, can cause breakouts and other skin problems. There may be a lot of things that you’re doing that’s causing those breakouts that you can’t seem to get rid of. Here is what you may be doing wrong in your skincare routine and how to fix it.

1. Using too many products

Again, less is more, especially when it comes to the skin. It’s unnecessary to use 3 different cleansers and 3 moisturizers, which would be less effective than using one of each.

2. Over exfoliation

Over exfoliating your skin can cause the top protective layer to be removed. This exposes your skin to many toxins, and also sun damage. It’s ideal to exfoliate at least 3 times a week.

3.Not applying sunscreen

It’s amazing how many of us think that sunscreen is not necessary for our skin, especially darker women. Sunscreen is the #1 protection against the sun and it’s damages it can cause to our skin. Applying it, whether it’s cold or hot, sunny or cloudy, benefits and protects our skin throughout the day.

4. Popping pimples

What’s more tempting than popping that annoying pimple on your face? If it’s bad to touch your face all of the time, popping a pimple has to be the ultimate hazard! This can cause dark spots and even infections. Using a spot treatment cream is more safe and less damaging.

5. Not changing your pillowcase

Pillowcases traps dirt and bacteria as you sleep on it every night. Sleeping on a dirty pillowcase can cause breakouts and other skin concerns.

Be sure to at least turn your pillowcase to the other side after sleeping on one side for at least two nights, then wash it once a week.