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Why Your Skincare Routine Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It Step-by-Step)

  • Writer: Lana Belle
    Lana Belle
  • Jun 5
  • 3 min read

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You’ve stocked up on cleansers, toners, serums, and moisturizers. You follow your routine religiously, morning and night. So why isn’t your skin glowing like everyone else’s on TikTok? The truth is, even the most dedicated skincare lovers can make small mistakes that sabotage their routine. In this post, we’ll walk you through the 9-step skincare routine, highlight common missteps at each stage, and show you exactly how to fix them for real results.

Step 1: Cleanse Your Face

The Mistake: Using a harsh cleanser or skipping double cleansing if you wear makeup/sunscreen.

Fix It: Opt for a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that won’t strip your skin. If you wear heavy makeup or sunscreen, start with a cleansing oil or micellar water first.

Recommended: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser (for dry skin) or La Roche-Posay Effaclar Gel (for oily/acne-prone skin)

Step 2: Apply Toner

The Mistake: Using an alcohol-based toner that irritates or over-exfoliates your skin.

Fix It: Choose a toner that suits your skin type. Look for hydrating toners with ingredients like glycerin or rose water, and only use exfoliating toners (like glycolic acid) at night and sparingly.

Step 3: Use a Serum

The Mistake: Skipping serums entirely or layering incompatible ingredients (like vitamin C + retinol).

Fix It: Use an antioxidant serum in the morning (like Vitamin C) and a hydrating or anti-aging one at night (like hyaluronic acid or peptides).

Step 4: Eye Cream

The Mistake: Rubbing the product harshly or using too much.

Fix It: Use a rice-sized amount and gently pat it in with your ring finger. Look for soothing or de-puffing ingredients like caffeine or peptides.

Step 5: Spot Treatment (If Needed)

The Mistake: Applying acne treatments all over or combining with other harsh actives.

Fix It: Only apply to affected areas and avoid layering with exfoliants or retinoids. Less is more!

Step 6: Moisturize

The Mistake: Not adjusting your moisturizer for the season or skin condition.

Fix It: Use a lightweight moisturizer in the morning (especially if applying makeup) and a richer cream at night. If your skin is oily, opt for a gel-based formula.

Step 7: Apply Retinoid (PM Only)

The Mistake: Starting with strong retinoids without a skin barrier prep or overusing them.

Fix It: Begin with a gentle retinol and use only 2-3 times a week. Always follow with moisturizer and never mix with exfoliating acids.

Step 8: Face Oil (Optional)

The Mistake: Applying before lighter products or using heavy oils that clog pores.

Fix It: Always apply face oil last to seal everything in. Choose non-comedogenic oils like jojoba or rosehip.

Step 9: Sunscreen (AM Only)

The Mistake: Skipping SPF or not reapplying throughout the day.

Fix It: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even if it’s cloudy. Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.

Conclusion: Your skincare routine might be full of holy grail products, but it’s how and when you use them that really matters. By identifying these common mistakes and making small adjustments, you’ll finally see the glow you’ve been working so hard for. Your skin deserves it!

Affiliate Disclaimer:


This post may contain affiliate links, which means i may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of these links—at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I truly believe in and think you'll love too. Thank you for supporting this Radiant Skin Club!


 
 
 

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