9 Skincare Mistakes Aging You Faster (and How to Avoid Them)

Aging is a natural process, but let’s be honest — no one wants to speed it up with skincare habits that secretly work against them. Many people focus on expensive serums or the latest beauty gadget, but overlook the everyday mistakes that make skin look older before its time. The good news? Once you know what these mistakes are, you can avoid them and protect your skin’s youthful glow for years to come. Today, we’re diving into 9 skincare mistakes aging you fasterand what to do instead — with practical, expert-backed tips you can start right now.

1. Skipping Sunscreen (Even Indoors)

UV damage is the number one cause of premature aging. Sun exposure breaks down collagen, leads to fine lines, and causes hyperpigmentation. Even if you work indoors, UV rays penetrate windows and contribute to photoaging.
What to do instead:

• Wear a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day — rain or shine.
• Reapply every 2 hours if you’re outdoors.
• Don’t forget your neck, chest, and hands.

Pro Tip: Using a lightweight sunscreen with a silky finish makes daily application feel effortless.

Lasso Product
EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 – Loved by dermatologists for its gentle, oil-free formula that works under makeup and protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Perfect for sensitive or acne-prone skin.

2. Over-Exfoliating

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells, but too much can strip the skin barrier, leading to redness, dryness, and accelerated aging. This is especially common with strong acids or harsh scrubs used too frequently.
What to do instead:

• Limit chemical exfoliation to 2–3 times per week.
• Choose gentler exfoliants like lactic acid if you have sensitive skin.
• Always moisturize after exfoliating.

Pro Tip: If your skin feels tight or looks flaky, scale back — that’s your barrier crying for help.

3. Ignoring Your Neck and Chest

Your face might look youthful, but a neglected neck and chest can reveal your true age. The skin here is thinner and often missed during skincare routines.
What to do instead:

• Extend all skincare products — cleanser, serum, sunscreen — down to your chest.
• Consider using a richer moisturizer in this area.

Lasso Product
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream – Packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to restore the skin barrier and lock in hydration from chin to chest.

4. Sleeping in Your Makeup

Makeup traps dirt, oil, and pollutants against your skin. Overnight, this can clog pores, cause inflammation, and break down collagen.
What to do instead:

• Always cleanse before bed, even if you’re exhausted.
• Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser to avoid stripping your skin.

Pro Tip: Keep micellar water and cotton pads by your nightstand for those nights when you can’t make it to the sink.

Lasso Product
Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water – Effortlessly removes makeup and impurities while being gentle enough for sensitive skin.

5. Using the Wrong Cleanser

Harsh cleansers can disrupt your skin’s pH and strip away protective oils, leading to dryness and irritation — both of which can make skin look older.
What to do instead:

• Use a pH-balanced, sulfate-free cleanser.
• If you have dry skin, choose cream or oil-based formulas.
• For oily skin, opt for a gentle foaming cleanser that doesn’t leave you tight.

6. Not Moisturizing Enough

Dehydrated skin accentuates fine lines and dullness. Skipping moisturizer, especially after cleansing, leaves your skin vulnerable.
What to do instead:

• Apply moisturizer while skin is still damp to lock in hydration.
• Choose ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and peptides.

Pro Tip: Layering a hydrating serum before your moisturizer gives your skin an extra plump boost.

7. Skipping Antioxidants in the Morning

Free radicals from pollution, UV, and stress can damage skin cells. Without antioxidants, your skin is more vulnerable to oxidative stress — a major contributor to premature aging.
What to do instead:

• Apply a vitamin C serum before sunscreen each morning.
• Look for formulas with ferulic acid and vitamin E for extra stability and potency.

Lasso Product
TruSkin Vitamin C Serum – Brightens, firms, and protects against daily environmental stressors while being gentle enough for sensitive skin.

8. Pulling or Tugging at Your Skin

From rubbing your eyes to dragging makeup brushes, mechanical stress can weaken skin elasticity over time.
What to do instead:

• Pat skincare products into the skin instead of rubbing.
• Use your ring finger (gentlest pressure) when applying eye cream.
• Remove makeup with gentle, downward strokes.

9. Neglecting Sleep and Hydration

No cream can fully make up for lack of rest and dehydration. Poor sleep increases cortisol levels, which break down collagen. Dehydration makes skin look tired and accentuates wrinkles.
What to do instead:

• Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night.
• Drink enough water throughout the day.
• Consider a humidifier in dry climates to keep skin hydrated overnight.

Pro Tip: Sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce friction and help your skin retain moisture.

Most people think aging is all about genetics or expensive treatments, but daily habits make a huge difference. By avoiding these 9 skincare mistakes aging you faster and swapping them for skin-friendly habits, you can keep your skin healthier, smoother, and more radiant for years to come. Small changes — like daily sunscreen, gentle cleansing, and staying hydrated — have long-term benefits that really show. Start with one or two adjustments today, and your future self will thank you.