Just because something can be done at home, it doesn’t always mean it should be. Sometimes, DIY, or do-it-yourself skincare treatments done from the comfort of your own bathroom, can cause long-term issues that range in severity from mild to extreme.
Here are some skincare DIY don’ts to steer clear of.
Dermaplaning with Improper Tools
Dermaplaning is the removal of those tiny hairs and dead skin cells that cover your face. Some people buy bulk packs of dull blades or use household razors in an attempt to create a smooth, baby-soft layer of skin that’s virtually hair-free. In reality, using the wrong tools paired with the wrong method not only increases your chances of ingrown hairs, but it also causes micro-cuts which, if left unnoticed or untreated, lead to infection, irritation, and even scarring.
Professionals are trained to properly use medical grade tools that are sharp and precise yet gentle enough to remove dead skin cells and excess hair, safely and effectively. Therefore, we never recommend dermaplaning at home.
Homemade Scrubs
If you prioritize consistent exfoliation, we applaud you. However, there is a right and a wrong way to remove set in impurities and dead skin. Using kitchen ingredients like sugar, salt, or crushed coffee beans may sound like a good idea, but it’s a common mistake that often leads to undesirable results. DIY scrubs can be dangerous because they’re a little too abrasive. When the particles aren’t smashed finely enough, once they contact the skin, they cause micro-tears which lead to inflammation and damaged capillaries.
When you book a facial with professionals, gentle exfoliants are used such as fruit enzymes or lactic acid, which naturally break down impurities, revealing a soft, fresh layer of skin.
Applying Lemon Juice or Other Citrus to the Skin
When it comes to acidic and citrus products, concentration levels are key. Since lemon juice alone is highly acidic, putting it directly on your face without proper preparation or dilution can cause chemical burns or rashes and irritation. If you want to incorporate the benefits of acid or citrus in a safe way, choose a Vitamin C serum that has ideal concentration levels and is specifically for skincare.
Applying Ice to the Skin
Some believe that putting ice on their skin helps reduce puffiness and swelling, and increase blood circulation. Even if that’s partially true, it’s still not a good idea to put ice cubes on your face. Doing so can cause frost-bite effects, like burns, and capillary damage. Instead of icing your face with cubes from the freezer, use chilled skincare rollers to gently soothe swollen or inflamed skin, and address any puffiness due to stress or tiredness.
Squeezing Toothpaste Onto Pimples
Simply put, toothpaste is for teeth, not blemishes or acne breakouts. Since toothpaste contains ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, alcohol, and menthol, they can dry out your skin and even slightly burn it. We advocate for spot treatment, but it has to be done right with the proper ingredients. Use skincare products formulated with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulfur to calm and reduce breakouts to prevent unwanted side effects.
If Skincare Seems Too Scary to Try, We’re Here to Help
When in doubt, you can’t go wrong by using a gentle foam cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen, which are the three cornerstones of skincare. Still, we know there are several other steps to take that keep it healthy and happy. Don’t hesitate to contact your experts in skincare at The Only Facial. We answer all your questions, address any concerns you may have, and get you started on the right path to an effective AM and PM routine.