My Biggest Skincare Mistakes From My 20s

Ah, my twenties. A glorious decade of questionable fashion choices, learning how to “adult,” and thinking that makeup remover wipes were a sufficient skincare routine. My skin philosophy was simple: if it tingles, it’s working. If it feels tight, it must be clean. Looking back, I can only offer my skin a sincere, heartfelt apology.

My journey into the world of skincare, particularly the gentle and effective universe of K-beauty, has been a game-changer. It taught me that skincare isn’t about battling your skin into submission; it’s about nurturing it. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and laugh (and cringe) at my biggest skincare mistakes, and explore what I’d do differently now with the wisdom of K-beauty on my side.

Mistake 1: The War on Oil (a.k.a. Harsh Cleansers)

In my 20s, I believed that any sign of oil was the enemy. My goal was squeaky-clean skin, and I armed myself with the harshest, foamiest cleansers I could find. I scrubbed with sulfates and attacked my face as if it were a dirty countertop. The result? A compromised skin barrier that was simultaneously tight, dry, and somehow, even oilier. My skin was overcompensating for the moisture I was stripping away.

What I’d Do Differently Now

Today, I bow down to the K-beauty ritual of double cleansing. This two-step process is the cornerstone of a healthy routine.

• Step 1: Oil Cleanser:I now start with an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing balm. This genius product melts away makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

• Step 1: Oil Cleanser:I now start with an oil-based cleanser or a cleansing balm. This genius product melts away makeup, sunscreen, and excess sebum without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

Mistake 2: Over-Exfoliating with Gritty Scrubs

If a little exfoliation is good, then a lot must be better, right? Wrong. So very wrong. I was a huge fan of abrasive physical scrubs with large, jagged particles. I thought I was polishing my way to a supermodel glow, but in reality, I was creating micro-tears in my skin, causing irritation, redness, and inflammation.

What I’d Do Differently Now

I’ve traded in my harsh scrubs for smarter, gentler K-beauty exfoliants. The focus is on effective renewal without collateral damage.

• Chemical Exfoliants (AHAs & BHAs):I now use products with Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (like glycolic or lactic acid) and Beta-Hydroxy Acids (salicylic acid). These work by dissolving the bonds that hold dead skin cells together, revealing brighter skin underneath. They are far more effective and less irritating than physical scrubbing.

• Enzyme Powders:Another K-beauty favorite! These are gentle exfoliants that use fruit enzymes (like papain from papaya) to nibble away at dead skin cells. You just add water, and they foam up into a soft, cloud-like cleanser. It’s exfoliation that feels like a treat.

Mistake 3: Skipping Sunscreen (The Ultimate Skincare Sin)

I’ll admit it: unless I was headed to the beach, sunscreen was not part of my daily routine. I thought the SPF 15 in my foundation was enough protection. This is probably the single biggest mistake I made, as UV exposure is the number one cause of premature aging and hyperpigmentation.

What I’d Do Differently Now

This one is simple: I wear sunscreen every single day, without exception. Rain or shine, indoors or out. Korean sunscreens have completely changed the game for me. They are nothing like the thick, greasy, white-cast-leaving formulas of the past.

Mistake 4: Fearing Moisturizer and Hydration

Because I had combination/oily skin, I was terrified of moisturizers. I thought adding more hydration would just make me a greasy mess. I would often skip it entirely or use a very light, alcohol-heavy product. This, of course, just signaled my skin to produce even more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture.

What I’d Do Differently Now

The solution wasn’t to dry it out, but to flood it with hydration.

• Hydrating Toners & Essences:I now layer on watery products immediately after cleansing. K-beauty toners are not the astringent formulas of the past; they are packed with humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid that plump the skin with water.  

• Serums & Ampoules:I target specific concerns with concentrated serums. Whether it’s a vitamin C serum for brightening or a snail mucin essence for repair and hydration.

• Finding the Right Moisturizer:I’ve discovered the beauty of lightweight, gel-cream moisturizers that provide ample hydration without feeling heavy or clogging pores. On days my skin feels extra dry, I might opt for a richer cream.

Your Skincare Journey is a Marathon, Not a Sprint

Looking back, my 20s were a learning experience in every aspect of life, including skincare. It’s easy to get caught up in wanting instant results, but the best approach is one of consistency, patience, and kindness to your skin. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes—that’s how you learn what your unique skin loves and what it doesn’t.