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5 Everyday Habits That Could Be Damaging Your Skin

Posted on 9 June 2025

5 Everyday Habits That Could Be Damaging Your Skin

Looking after your skin requires more than just a good skincare routine. Everyday habits, even those that seem harmless, can have a lasting impact on your complexion. In 5 everyday habits that could be damaging your skin, we highlight common behaviours that may be undermining your efforts without you even realising it.

Skipping Sunscreen

Even in the UK’s cooler climate, daily sun protection is crucial. UVA rays are present year-round and contribute to premature ageing, pigmentation, and loss of elasticity. Forgetting to apply SPF, particularly on cloudy days, can lead to long-term damage that skincare products alone cannot reverse.

Over-Cleansing

While keeping the skin clean is important, over-cleansing strips away natural oils that protect and nourish the skin barrier. Washing with harsh products or cleansing too often can lead to dryness, sensitivity, and even breakouts. A gentle, balanced approach is key to maintaining healthy skin.

Poor Hydration

Dehydration doesn’t just affect how you feel — it shows on your skin. Lack of water intake can leave the skin looking dull, tired, and more prone to fine lines. Maintaining hydration, both by drinking enough water and using hydrating skincare, helps keep the skin plump and resilient.

Touching the Face

Frequent touching transfers bacteria, oil, and dirt onto the skin, which can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Resting the face in your hands or picking at blemishes can also lead to irritation and scarring. Being mindful about contact can go a long way in protecting the skin’s surface.

Inconsistent Sleep Patterns

Poor sleep habits affect more than just energy levels. During sleep, the skin undergoes repair and renewal. Lack of rest can result in a dull complexion, increased puffiness, and even deeper lines over time. Prioritising quality sleep supports the skin’s natural regenerative processes.

Solutions for Healthier Skin

Recognising these 5 everyday habits that could be damaging your skin is only part of the journey. Professional treatments can help undo some of the damage and restore skin health. HydraFacial, known for its deep cleansing and intense hydration, can revive dull, congested skin by removing impurities and infusing nourishing serums. For those dealing with textural issues or early signs of ageing, Dermapen microneedling promotes collagen production and improves skin texture, helping to repair and strengthen the skin barrier over time.

Combining professional care with better daily habits offers a comprehensive way to support the skin’s health, leaving it clearer, firmer, and more resilient against future damage.

FAQs

  • What damages your skin the most?

    One of the biggest contributors to skin damage is unprotected sun exposure. UV rays break down collagen and elastin, leading to premature ageing, pigmentation, and increased risk of skin cancer. Other major factors include smoking, poor diet, inadequate hydration, and harsh skincare routines. Environmental pollution and chronic stress also accelerate skin ageing, making daily protection and healthy habits essential for maintaining good skin health.

  • What are 5 healthy habits for the skin?

    Maintaining healthy skin involves a few simple but powerful habits. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UV damage. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps keep the skin supple and resilient. Gentle cleansing preserves the skin’s natural barrier, while a balanced diet rich in antioxidants supports cell repair. Finally, prioritising quality sleep allows the skin to regenerate overnight, keeping it fresh and youthful.

  • What's the worst thing you can do to your skin?

    Neglecting sun protection is arguably the worst thing you can do to your skin. Cumulative sun damage leads to premature ageing, loss of elasticity, and increases the risk of skin cancer. Other damaging habits include over-exfoliating, smoking, and using harsh products that strip the skin’s natural oils. Ignoring hydration and picking at blemishes can also result in long-term texture and scarring issues.

Speak with our experts