I stumbled across this on yahoo, sharing it here;D
Ah, the basics of skin care. Wash, rinse, and repeat later—right? Not so fast...here are five common habits that will end up ruining your skin. (Read the Other Four Here)
1. Choosing the Wrong Cleanser
Jennifer Fifer, owner of Tru Skin Clinical Spa in Manhattan, says women often buy high-end exfoliating products and moisturizers, but don't pay attention to what’s actually in them. Choose products with few chemicals, she advises. Avoid those containing SD-40, isopropyl alcohol, a common ingredient that can be an irritant for acne-prone and sensitive skin types, leading to redness, dryness, and in some cases, brown spots and premature aging. Related: What the Heck Causes Adult Acne?
2. Over-Exfoliating
Many products today have alpha hydroxy acids to combat wrinkles and fine lines, but if you mix-and-match too often — for example, an acid-based moisturizer in the morning and an exfoliating cream at night — you run the risk of inflaming your skin. Related: The Top 5 Body Scrubs
3. Moisturizing Too Much
Surprisingly, women with dry skin should avoid over-moisturizing, so don't spackle on cream or heavy moisturizers. "It causes more congestion in the long run," says Fifer. "Women would do better to invest in a good humidifier instead, especially if they live in a dry climate." Related: More Tips for Dry Skin
4. Not Washing Your Face Before You Go to Bed
You fall asleep with your makeup on, what's the big deal? "Never, never, never!" says Fifer. Even if it's only a rare occurrence, the problems can cascade into your complexion for a week. To avoid a skin-care nightmare, be sure to wash your face before you head to bed.
5. Wearing Old Makeup
When was the last time you threw out your makeup? Don't hang on to beauty products if you don't use them frequently. Since your fingers are usually your applicator, bacteria build up fast in bottles and in makeup sponges, then end up on your face. As a rule of thumb, Fifer suggestions tossing foundation out after six months.
(adapted from http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/beauty/5-bad-skin-habits-that-you-need-to-quit-2409892/)
