A healthy, smooth, and radiant complexion is a dream for all of us. Every day, a new product or a new care method appears. However, the path to beautiful skin is not only through using the right products but also through avoiding wrong habits.
Our Dermatology Specialist, Dr. Merve Mercan, explained the common mistakes made in skincare and the practices she would “never do.” According to her, not every expensive product gives good results, and not every new trend benefits our skin.
1. Using Too Many Products Can Harm the Skin
One of the most common mistakes in skincare is using too many products. When serums, creams, and masks from different brands are applied layer upon layer, the skin barrier becomes stressed and can react.
According to Dr. Merve Mercan, a skincare routine should be simple, balanced, and suitable for the skin type. Especially before trying a new product, it is necessary to read its ingredients carefully and test the skin’s reaction in a small area.
Remember: What is good for your skin may not always be the most expensive product. The important thing is to understand your skin’s needs and choose appropriate products.
2. Using Soap Dries Out the Skin
Many people believe that using soap for facial cleansing “cleanses the skin deeply.” However, this is a common misconception.
Dr. Merve Mercan states that frequent use of products like soap, which have an unsuitable pH balance for the skin, disrupts the skin barrier, causing dryness and irritation. Washing the face with soap more than twice a day excessively dries the skin and disturbs its natural moisture balance.
Instead, gentle cleansers and gels with a pH suitable for the skin should be preferred. Cleansing twice, especially in the morning and evening, is sufficient. More than that can weaken the skin’s protective layer.
3. Double Cleansing is Not Always Necessary
The “double cleansing” method, which has become popular in recent years, can be beneficial, especially for those who wear waterproof makeup. However, applying this method is unnecessary on days without makeup or when oil-based products are not used.
Dr. Merve Mercan points out that unnecessary double cleansing can disrupt the skin barrier in the long run. When the skin is overly stripped, the protective oil layer is also removed, and the skin becomes sensitive.
The goal in skincare is not to make the skin completely “oil-free” but to keep it clean yet balanced.
4. Constant Use of Cica Creams is Not Correct
Cica (barrier-repairing) creams, which have recently become popular, are effective for soothing skin irritation and redness. However, according to Dr. Merve Mercan, these creams should not be used daily and continuously.
These products can only be used on certain days of the week if there is redness, sensitivity, or barrier damage on the skin. Continuous use as a daily moisturizer can make the skin’s own regeneration process sluggish.
A balanced routine supports the skin barrier; excessive product use can create the opposite effect.
5. Practices She “Would Never Do”
Dr. Merve Mercan also shares a few habits she never incorporates into her own skincare:
- I do not sunbathe or use a solarium. The sun’s harmful UV rays are the most important cause of skin aging and spots. Similarly, a solarium can lead to DNA damage in the skin.
- I do not sleep with makeup on. Makeup left on the skin throughout the day clogs pores and paves the way for acne. Dr. Merve Mercan says she removes her makeup with micellar water and then washes her face with a gentle, non-drying cleansing gel.
- I do not use exfoliating mitts (kese) or grainy scrubs on my face. Exfoliating mitts or coarse-grained scrubs create micro-scratches on the skin, disrupt the barrier, and increase sensitivity.
- I do not get waxing done on my face. Waxing irritates the skin surface and can cause spots, especially in sensitive skin.
These points are the clearest examples of “don’ts” for healthy skin.
6. Fewer Products, Right Ingredients, Healthy Skin
In skincare, the right steps are important, not the quantity. Every application made without knowing your skin type can cause more harm than good.
Dr. Merve Mercan’s recommendation is to simplify the basic skincare routine into three steps:
- Gentle cleansing
- Moisturizing
- Sun protection
This trio forms the foundation of skin health. It is sufficient for the skin to remain smooth, bright, and balanced.
Avoid Misconceptions for Healthy Skin
The mindset of “the more, the better” in skincare often backfires. Instead of expensive products, popular trends, or complex routines, the most correct approach is to understand the nature of the skin and keep it in balance.
Remember, an expensive product is not always an effective product. A simple yet correct routine is enough to maintain your skin’s health.
As Dr. Merve Mercan emphasizes:
“Skincare is not about burdening the skin, but being in harmony with it.”
