7 everyday skincare habits you are missing!

If your skincare routine looks the same since 2018, it’s time for a little intervention. Because sometimes it’s not the fancy serums or the ten-step rituals that make your skin happy, it’s the tiny habits you skip. From cleansing the right way to actually letting your skin breathe, these everyday steps can do more for your glow than another bottle of essence ever will. Here’s a reminder of the small things that make a big difference, and yes, you’re probably missing at least a few…or all.

Cleansing at night (and yes, it’s non-negotiable)

If your face has touched pollution, SPF, air-conditioning, or even food grease because you’re a messy eater, then cleansing before bed should be on your list. Your pores are not Mumbai’s potholes for you to collect all the dust and grime in them. A proper cleanse at night helps your skin breathe, prevents clogged pores, and makes sure your serums and moisturisers actually do their job instead of sitting on a layer of leftover city.

Try: Pyunkang Yul Low pH Pore Deep Cleansing Foam at ₹1,400

A gentle but effective cleanser that lifts away dirt and buildup without upsetting your skin’s balance. It clears pores, smooths texture, and leaves your face feeling clean yet comfortable — ready for the rest of your routine.

Reapplying sunscreen (yes, even indoors)

You might wear sunscreen once in the morning and feel virtuous, but it doesn’t last all day. Between sweat, touching your face, and doom scrolling, your SPF weakens. Reapply every few hours if you’re outdoors or working by a window. If you’re inside all day, a mid-afternoon top-up still helps.

Try: Sun Expert Invisible SPF 50 PA++++ Sunstick Mini, ₹399

This compact sun stick is perfect for touch-ups on the move. It’s non-sticky, blends invisibly, and keeps shine in check while blocking up to 98% of UVB rays. The formula is enriched with ceramides and hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated, and it fits in even the tiniest bag for reapplication anywhere.

Hydrating your skin barrier, not just your skin

Your skin can look dewy right after moisturising, but if your barrier isn’t happy, that glow disappears before you’ve even reached your destination . The skin barrier is your skin’s natural shield; a mix of lipids and cells that keep moisture in and irritants out. When it’s compromised, you’ll notice dullness, redness, or sensitivity no matter how many serums you use. A healthy barrier means fewer flare-ups, smoother texture, and longer-lasting radiance.Look for moisturisers packed with ceramides, peptides, and fatty acids that keep your skin balanced and resilient.

Try: The FormulaRX Barrier Plus Peptide Ceramide Moisturizer ₹559

A lightweight yet nourishing formula that strengthens your skin’s barrier while keeping it comfortably hydrated. It absorbs quickly, locks in moisture, and supports long-term repair, ideal if your skin often feels tight or looks uneven. And definitely a bestie during winters.

Using a mild active consistently

You can achieve the same kind of glow-up without going through the pricking of products by finding ingredients like lactic acid or vitamin C and using them regularly. These actives help refine texture, brighten dull spots and keep your skin looking even, without disrupting your barrier. It’s the kind of skincare habit that delivers results quietly but surely.

Try: Plum Mandarin & Vitamin C 15% Serum ₹489

A brightening serum that helps fade pigmentation and evens out skin tone with a stable form of vitamin C. It absorbs easily, layers well, and adds a healthy brightness over time without irritation.

Suganda 5% Lactic Acid Serum ₹599

A gentle exfoliating serum that buffs away dead cells while keeping skin hydrated and calm. Perfect for beginners or anyone whose skin prefers mild, steady care over strong actives.

Showing your neck and eyes some attention

You know how people say your neck gives your age away? They’re not wrong. And the under-eye area? It’s usually the first to show late-night Netflix habits. Extend your moisturiser down to your neck and use a lightweight cream or serum around the eyes every night.

Try: Aminu Eye Serum ₹1,850

If your under-eyes could talk, they’d probably beg for this. The Aminu Eye Serum is packed with caffeine, peptides, and ceramides that help de-puff, brighten, and smooth without feeling sticky. It sinks in fast, sits well under makeup, and gives your tired eyes a reason to look alive again.

Neutrogena Visible Repair Eye Cream ₹1,299

Late nights don’t have to show up the next morning. This eye cream uses retinol and peptides to target fine lines and dullness, helping your under-eye area look smoother and more awake with regular use. Lightweight, hydrating, and non-greasy, it’s perfect for daily use,  even in Mumbai’s humidity.

Simple Kind To Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser ₹499

Light enough for the face yet nourishing enough for the neck, this one’s a skincare all-rounder. It hydrates deeply without feeling greasy, so your neck doesn’t end up dry or creased. Perfect for those who want something gentle, fragrance-free, and fuss-free.

Plum 2% Niacinamide & Rice Water Gel Moisturiser ₹467

Niacinamide and rice water might sound like a smoothie recipe, but on skin, they’re magic. This gel-based moisturiser helps even out texture, adds a natural glow, and hydrates without the sticky feel. Smooth it down to your neck to keep your skin soft and bright all the way through.

Keeping what touches your skin clean

Your skincare might be flawless, but your pillowcase and phone are working against you. Pillowcases collect oil, bacteria, and product residues. Change them every few days and wipe your phone screen regularly. It’s the easiest glow-up move you’ll ever make.

Taking five minutes to relax

Stress isn’t just bad for your mood, it literally messes with your skin barrier and causes flare-ups. A five-minute wind-down routine before bed can make a visible difference. Light a candle, mist your face, do a slow cleanse. Skincare works best when you’re not rushing through it. 

Lead image: Pexels

Also read: Glow-boosting SPF creams are basically winter coats for your face

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