'I'm a skin care expert - a common misstep in bedtime routines causes more wrinkles over time'

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to skin care, but many people sabotage their routine with common mistakes. These errors can significantly impact skin health and reduce the effectiveness of expensive products.

From incorrect application timing to using the wrong pillowcases, these missteps can hinder the skin's overnight repair process.

Understanding and avoiding these pitfalls is crucial for achieving optimal skin care results.

Timing is crucial in night-time skincare routines due to absorption time, according to Justmylook's skin care expert Hayley Walker.

Applying products too close to bedtime can reduce effectiveness

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The expert said: “It’s best to apply your night-time skincare routine between 30 minutes and 1 hour before bed. This allows enough time for the products to absorb into your skin before your face touches your pillow, preventing them from rubbing off."

Applying too close to bedtime can reduce effectiveness, particularly with active ingredients like retinoids and acids, which work best when fully absorbed into the skin.

Additionally, cotton pillowcases can also hinder skincare efforts, the expert cautioned. They absorb products, reducing their effectiveness

"The friction from cotton can also cause irritation and contribute to wrinkles over time. Additionally, cotton traps dirt, oils, and bacteria, which can lead to breakouts," Hayley explained.

"Opting for silk or satin pillowcases is a better choice, as they minimise friction, help retain moisture, and allow your products to work more effectively overnight.”

Double cleansing is a crucial step often overlooked in night-time skincare routines. This two-step process involves using an oil-based cleanser followed by a water-based one. Skipping this can leave residue on the skin, potentially clogging pores and causing breakouts.

Hayley noted: "Incorporating a two-step process ensures your skin is completely clean, allowing your night-time skincare products to work more effectively."

It is equally important not to use daytime products at night, as this can hinder skin repair, the expert cautioned.

Products with vitamin C and certain peptides are designed for daytime protection and may not provide the necessary overnight hydration and repair.

"It's essential to choose products designed for night-time use that focus on restoration, hydration, and rejuvenation to maximise skin repair while you sleep," said Hayley.

Furthermore, skipping toner can reduce the effectiveness of serums and moisturisers. Many toners also provide additional hydration and soothing benefits, making them an essential step before applying active treatments.

"Toner helps to rebalance your skin's pH after cleansing, ensuring that your skin is prepared to absorb the next products more effectively," noted Hayley. "It also helps remove any leftover residue from makeup, cleanser, or impurities.

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Hayley recommends focusing on one or two active ingredients

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Finally, overusing active ingredients can lead to skin irritation and damage. Combining multiple potent ingredients like retinoids, AHAs, and vitamin C may overwhelm the skin, causing redness or peeling.

Hayley recommends focusing on one or two active ingredients and alternating their use throughout the week.

"This means your skin will get the benefits without becoming irritated or sensitive," the expert noted.

She added: "Finally, the last mistake in your night-time skincare routine is applying skincare products in the wrong order. The general rule is to apply products from the thinnest to the thickest consistency."