At Valencia Medical Center, we’re passionate about helping patients in Santa Clarita achieve radiant, healthy skin at every age. As skincare professionals, we see a wide range of skin conditions and concerns—many of which are caused or worsened by common skincare mistakes. Whether it’s something as simple as skipping sunscreen or using the wrong products for your skin type, these missteps can lead to premature aging, acne, irritation, and more.
If you’ve been struggling with your skin despite your best efforts, chances are you may be unknowingly making one of these common mistakes. Here are the top skincare mistakes we see in our Santa Clarita patients—and how to fix them.
1. Skipping Sunscreen Year-Round
Santa Clarita is known for its beautiful sunny weather, but that sun exposure comes with a price. Not wearing sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days or during the winter, is one of the biggest mistakes we see. UV rays can still penetrate through clouds and windows, accelerating signs of aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Fix: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day—yes, even when you’re indoors if you’re near windows or screens.
2. Over-Exfoliating or Under-Exfoliating
Exfoliation helps slough off dead skin cells and allows products to absorb better. However, too much exfoliation can damage your skin barrier, leading to redness, sensitivity, and breakouts. On the flip side, not exfoliating enough can lead to dull, congested skin.
Fix: Stick to exfoliating 1-3 times a week using a gentle chemical exfoliant (like glycolic or lactic acid) rather than harsh physical scrubs.
3. Using Products Not Meant for Your Skin Type
Another frequent issue we see is patients using trendy products without understanding whether they’re right for their specific skin type or condition. A product that works for oily, acne-prone skin may be too harsh for someone with sensitive or dry skin.
Fix: Schedule a skin consultation to determine your skin type and get personalized recommendations tailored to your unique needs.
4. Not Removing Makeup Properly
Sleeping in makeup or failing to properly remove it at night can clog pores, contribute to breakouts, and prevent your skin from regenerating overnight.
Fix: Always double cleanse in the evening—first with a makeup remover or cleansing oil, followed by a gentle water-based cleanser.
5. Inconsistent Skincare Routine
Trying a new product every week or abandoning your routine too quickly can disrupt your skin’s balance and make it hard to assess what’s really working.
Fix: Give each new product at least 4-6 weeks before evaluating its effectiveness and stick to a consistent, minimalist routine built on cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen as your base.
6. Popping Pimples and Picking at Skin
We understand the temptation, but picking at blemishes can lead to scarring, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation, especially for those with darker skin tones.
Fix: Leave blemish treatment to the professionals. At Valencia Medical Center, we offer targeted acne treatments that safely clear the skin without causing long-term damage.
7. Not Seeing a Professional for Skin Concerns
Relying solely on over-the-counter products or social media advice can prolong your skin issues or make them worse.
Fix: If you’ve been dealing with chronic acne, discoloration, or signs of aging, it’s time to consult with a medical skincare provider. We offer advanced treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and custom facials tailored to your skin’s unique needs.
Q&A: Common Skincare Questions from Our Santa Clarita Patients
Q: How do I know what products are right for my skin type?
A: The best way to determine the right products is through a professional skin assessment. We evaluate your skin’s texture, tone, and concerns to develop a personalized regimen.
Q: Is it true that oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer?
A: Not true. All skin types need hydration. In fact, skipping moisturizer can cause oily skin to produce even more oil. Opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer.
Q: How long should I wait before switching skincare products if I don’t see results?
A: Most products need 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use to show visible results. Patience and consistency are key!
Q: What’s the best anti-aging treatment you offer?
A: It depends on your individual needs, but our most popular anti-aging options include microneedling, medical-grade facials, and injectables like Botox and dermal fillers for deeper wrinkles.
Q: I have sensitive skin—can I still exfoliate?
A: Yes, but choose a gentle enzyme-based or lactic acid exfoliant and limit use to once a week. We can guide you to the safest options during your consultation.
Let’s Get Your Skin Back on Track
At Valencia Medical Center, our mission is to help patients in Santa Clarita achieve healthier, clearer, more confident skin—without the guesswork. If you’re struggling with skin issues or simply want to elevate your skincare routine, we’re here to help with advanced, physician-guided solutions.
📍 Visit or Contact Us Today!
Valencia Medical Center
24159 Magic Mountain Parkway
Valencia, CA 91355
📞 Phone: (661) 222-9117
📱 Text Us: (661) 523-9558
🌐 Website: valenciamedcenter.com
Don’t let small skincare mistakes stand in the way of your glow. Book your personalized skin consultation today and take the first step toward your best skin ever!