Achieving healthy, glowing, youthful skin requires consistency and the right knowledge. Yet, with so many skincare products and recommendations, it’s easy to fall into bad habits that sabotage your efforts. Dr. Amir Karam, a world-renowned facial plastic surgeon and skincare expert, is here to reveal the ten most common skincare mistakes and how to avoid them.
Dr. Karam brings unparalleled expertise to the field of skin health and anti-aging. He is double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. With over 6,000 successful procedures performed on patients worldwide, Dr. Karam has also published over 20 peer-reviewed research articles, contributed to 25 surgical textbook chapters, and co-authored the textbook Rejuvenation of the Aging Face. His groundbreaking techniques, such as the Vertical Restore® and Vertical Prevent®, have redefined facial rejuvenation by addressing the root causes of aging, including laxity and volume loss.
With this depth of knowledge, Dr. Karam has also created the KaramMD Skin Trifecta regimen, a simple three-step skincare system designed to meet all your skin’s needs and address common mistakes. Here are the ten bad skincare habits you need to stop today, along with tips to keep your skin healthy and youthful.
1. Buying Luxury Moisturizers
Spending on high-end moisturizers is tempting, but most lack active ingredients that provide real anti-aging benefits. These products typically only offer basic hydration, leaving your skin no better off than if you used a budget-friendly option. Instead, look for products with proven actives like retinol, antioxidants, and peptides to truly benefit your skin.
2. Avoiding Retinol
Retinol is a gold-standard anti-aging ingredient that helps reverse collagen loss, improve pigmentation, and boost cellular turnover. Avoiding it is a missed opportunity to transform your skin. Start slow if you’re new to retinol, and always pair it with sunscreen for protection, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays.
3. Only Using the SPF in Makeup
SPF in your foundation or tinted moisturizer is not enough to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. A dedicated mineral-based sunscreen is essential for proper protection. Think of SPF in makeup as an added bonus, not your primary defense.
4. Using Laser Treatments as Your Only Skincare
While laser treatments can be transformative, they aren’t a substitute for a solid at-home skincare routine. Without proper daily care, the results of your laser treatments will fade faster. A well-rounded skincare regimen supports your skin’s health and helps maintain the longevity of professional treatments.
5. Being Inconsistent with Skincare
Skincare isn’t a quick fix; it’s a commitment. Inconsistent use of active ingredients like retinol, antioxidants, or vitamin C won’t deliver lasting results. Sticking to a routine benefits your skin from regular nourishment, promoting collagen production and long-term improvements.
6. Over-Exfoliating
Exfoliation is critical for removing dead skin cells and revealing a fresh, glowing complexion. However, overdoing it can strip your skin’s natural barrier, leaving it irritated and vulnerable. Limit exfoliation to 2–3 times a week with a gentle product to keep your skin balanced.
7. Using Sunscreen Inconsistently
The sun is the number one cause of premature aging. If you’re not applying sunscreen daily—even on cloudy days—you’re exposing your skin to harmful UV rays. Make sunscreen a non-negotiable step in your routine to protect against sun damage and keep your skin youthful.
8. Using Foaming Cleansers
Foaming cleansers may leave your skin feeling “squeaky clean,” but they are often too harsh and disrupt your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Opt for a gentle, hydrating cleanser to cleanse effectively without causing dryness or irritation.
9. Missing Out on Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a skincare essential, offering powerful antioxidant protection, brightening effects, and collagen-boosting benefits. If you’re not using it, you’re missing one of the most effective anti-aging tools available.
10. Misunderstanding Moisturizers
Even if you have oily skin, you still need a good moisturizer. Hydration helps balance oil production and maintain your skin’s protective barrier. Skipping this step can actually worsen oiliness and lead to irritation.
Click Here to Learn More About These Ten Bad Skincare Mistakes
A Smarter Approach to Skincare: Dr. Karam’s Skin Trifecta
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated. Dr. Karam’s KaramMD Skin Trifecta regimen simplifies your routine into just three steps, used both morning and night. This comprehensive system incorporates all the essential active ingredients—retinol, antioxidants, peptides, and more—to hydrate, nourish, and protect your skin.
By avoiding these common skincare mistakes and following a consistent, science-backed routine, you can achieve radiant, youthful skin for years to come. With Dr. Karam’s expertise and easy-to-use Trifecta system, the path to glowing skin has never been more straightforward.
Click here to shop Karam MD today, or contact Dr. Karam’s office to book a consultation and learn more!
