How to look younger: Ditch the 'most common' skin care mistake that leaves your skin 'irritated and dehydrated'

Skin care experts Sinead and Jeanette share what products to use for your skin in the evening
GB NEWS
Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 10/05/2025

- 06:00

What you put on your skin can make a difference to how you look

A good skin care routine can help protect against the signs of ageing and give your face a natural glow.

However, what works in the colder months may not be best practice as the year goes on, and it is worth adjusting your routine seasonally.


Many women make the mistake of over-exfoliating after winter, claimed founder of The Deluxe Touch and a qualified esthetician, Melissa Carter.

She said: “After winter, one of the most common mistakes I see my clients make is over-exfoliating, thinking they need to scrub away all the dry, dead skin to revive it. But this can leave your skin feeling more irritated and dehydrated.”

Woman exfoliating face

Exfoliating can be harsh on the skin

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Skin often becomes drier in the winter months, so exfoliating heavily after this time can do more harm than good. It can also lead to ageing.

According to care brand Dermalogica: "Over-exfoliation triggers the inflammatory response, leading to a compromised lipid barrier that won't function properly, a sensitised skin condition, and accelerated premature ageing."

So what should you do? Melissa suggested focusing on a hydrating routine to replenish the moisture in your skin.

She explained: "I prioritise restoring moisture with hydrating serums like hyaluronic acid, rich moisturisers with ceramides and gentle cleansers.

"I also recommend overnight masks and hydrating mists to really nourish the skin. Swap heavy creams for lighter gels and ease up on exfoliation. I always encourage adding a hydrating serum into your routine."

Hyaluronic acid is often praised as an ingredient that is worth adding to any anti-ageing skin care routine.

It is hydrating while working to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Research has found it helps skin stretch and flex, reducing the effects of skin wrinkles and lines. The ingredient will also help your skin to retain water, making it appear plump and youthful.

hyaluronic acid serum

Hyaluronic acid is a popular ingredient

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The beauty expert continued: "Hyaluronic acid is a great option because it pulls moisture into the skin, keeping your skin fresh and plump.”

This comes as experts shared the "highly effective" skin care ingredients that can "visibly reduce" puffy eyes and dark circles.

Beauty experts suggested looking out for products that contain ingredients such as caffeine and vitamin C, as these can help to brighten the eyes.