Things I would NEVER do as a dermatology PA 👇
☀️ Forget sunscreen
UV damage adds up every single day—even when it’s cloudy or you’re mostly indoors. Sunscreen is one of the best tools we have for preventing skin cancer, premature aging, dark spots, and collagen loss.
💄 Sleep in my makeup
Makeup, oil, sweat, and environmental debris can build up on the skin throughout the day. Sleeping in it can contribute to clogged pores, breakouts, irritation, and dull-looking skin. Taking a few minutes to cleanse at night is worth it.
🧴 Skip moisturizer—especially on my body
Your skin barrier needs hydration to function properly. Moisturizer helps reduce dryness, irritation, and water loss. And if you have oily skin, don’t skip it—dehydrated skin can sometimes become even oilier as it tries to compensate.
📱 Buy skincare just because it’s viral
A product can work great for someone else and still be completely wrong for your skin. Instead of chasing trends, focus on ingredients and products that address your specific skin concerns and goals.
🔍 Ignore a changing mole
A mole that changes in size, shape, color, or starts itching, bleeding, or becoming painful should be evaluated by a dermatology provider. Early detection is key when it comes to skin cancer.
The best skincare routine isn’t the most expensive or the trendiest—it’s the one that’s consistent, evidence-based, and tailored to your skin. ✨
As a dermatology PA, I've witnessed firsthand the impact of common skincare mistakes on skin health. One thing I always emphasize is the importance of consistent sunscreen use. Even on cloudy days or when indoors, UV rays penetrate windows and contribute to cumulative skin damage. Using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily protects against premature aging, dark spots, and the risk of skin cancer. Another frequent issue is sleeping in makeup. This habit can clog pores and lead to inflammation, breakouts, and a dull complexion. I advise spending just a few minutes each evening to properly cleanse your face, removing makeup, dirt, and oils accumulated throughout the day. It’s a small step that yields significant long-term benefits. Moisturizing correctly is a vital but often overlooked component. Many believe oily skin doesn't need moisturizer, yet dehydration can actually cause the skin to produce more oil to compensate. Choosing a hydrating, non-comedogenic moisturizer tailored to your skin type helps maintain the skin barrier and prevent irritation or flakiness, particularly on the body where skin tends to be drier. The allure of viral skincare products can be tempting, but I caution against using any product based solely on trends or popularity. Every individual’s skin is unique, so it’s critical to focus on ingredients and formulations that address your specific skin concerns, whether it’s acne, sensitivity, or aging. Finally, never ignore changes in your moles or skin spots. Noticing shifts in size, shape, color, or experiencing symptoms like itching or bleeding warrants prompt evaluation by a dermatology professional. Early detection remains the key to successfully managing skin cancer. Ultimately, an effective skincare routine is not about chasing expensive or trendy products—it’s about consistency, evidence-based choices, and personalization. By adopting these prudent habits, you can maintain healthier skin, minimize damage, and support overall skin wellness.
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