Skin care no-gos at home - what dermatologists would never let near their skin

For beautiful, clear and smooth skin it matters not only which care products you use but also how and when you use them. ‘Overloading’ the skin with care is often counterproductive – dermatologists know that with skin care less is often more.

Trying every hyped miracle cream can lead not only to irritation on the face but also to a poor skin environment. Here are some products and care routines that dermatologists warn against. Because often what you believe to be nourishing and good is actually the opposite and can even damage the skin lastingly.

Chemical peels for at home

A strong chemical peel should only ever be carried out under the supervision of an expert. Many people buy medical peels online which are, however, too strong for use at home. Redness can occur, as can scarring and discolouration of the skin. Sometimes even allergic reactions. So hands off and off to the professional.

Using bath sponges on the face

Sponges for thorough cleansing are likewise counterproductive for cleansing the face. They are mostly too aggressive and, with eczema and acne in particular, can encourage the formation of bacteria and irritate the skin. Gentle enzymatic peels are far more suitable and remove dirt and flakes of skin just as thoroughly.

Creams containing collagen

Many face creams promise to plump up the skin and soften wrinkles with collagen. Dermatologists know that the collagen molecule in a cream has no effect, because it is too large to penetrate the skin – all you are buying is a far too expensive product.

Abrasive facial scrubs

Coarse-grained facial scrubs for home use should definitely be avoided. They can irritate the skin and lead to pigmentation disorders. Many people who suffer from acne mistakenly think they can scrub away their blemishes with them – but the rubbing only irritates the skin unnecessarily and makes the condition of the skin worse. It is better to wash the skin with a mild cleansing cream and then to clean it afterwards with a flannel (without rubbing).

Which care and beauty treatment is the right one for your skin type is something you can find out in a consultation with dermatologist Dr. Elke Janig and dermato-cosmetician Sonja Panagiotides.