Dermatologist reveals three most common skincare mistakes - and how to avoid them

A board-certified dermatologist has revealed the top three skincare mistakes she sees her patients make - and one of them could have a dire effect on your health.

The crucial information was shared on TikTok by Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, who is based in California. 

Dr. Shirazi specializes in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, and is the founder of her own medical-grade skincare line, AziMD Skincare.

In the clip, Shirazi warned viewers about the skincare mistakes they need to avoid making - starting off with one that may seem obvious - and that's using too many different kinds of products.

'I have to remind them that their skin is an organ, it's not designed to have this many actives and products bombarding it,' Shirazi shared.

She explained that there are only three skincare products that you really need to be using everyday - a cleanser, a moisturizer, and an SPF.

'If you have acne, or you want to do something for anti-aging, add in a treatment step in between your cleanser and moisturizer,' she advised.

In the comments section, she also added that she uses retinol in her own routine.  

Next on the dermatologist's list of no-nos was skipping sun protection.

Applying protection is an extremely important step in your skincare routine, as it protects you from skin cancer, premature aging, and, of course, sunburn, per John's Hopkins Medicine. 

It especially matters on areas where you have thin, delicate skin, Shirazi explained, as these spots can be more prone to sun damage. 

'I remove a lot of skin cancer from these areas, eyelids, the lips, the ears, the neck and chest, as well as the back of the hand,' she explained.

And, last but not least, she advised viewers to make sure that their skincare routines and the products that they are using are individualized for them.

She emphasized the importance of not using a certain product just because your friends uses it, too.

The skin expert explained that people often get 'distracted' after they see social media influencers and friends use viral products.

'Your skin is not your friend's skin,' Shirazi stressed. 

'Make sure that you are using specific products that are good for your skin type and your concern, because everybody's skin is different,' the doctor continued.

So, the next time you're tempted to skip your sunscreen on a rainy day or even try a new viral product, you might want to think twice.