When it comes to skincare, we tend to obsess over what’s inside the bottle — the ingredients, textures, and promises of radiance. But what’s often overlooked is how we handle those products.
Good skincare hygiene is the unsung hero of healthy skin. You can have the most advanced formulas in the world, but if bacteria and buildup are secretly compromising your products, they won’t perform at their best. A few mindful habits can make sure every drop stays as pure and potent as the day you opened it.
Here’s your guide to a cleaner, safer, and more effective routine.
Table of contents
Use a Spatula for Creams & Masks
Dipping your fingers directly into jars may feel harmless, but every touch introduces natural oils and bacteria that can affect the product’s stability. Over time, that contamination can shorten shelf life and cause unexpected breakouts.
Instead, use a small spatula — it keeps your formula untouched and gives your routine a little ritual-like touch. Just remember to wash or wipe your spatula after each use.
Wash Your Hands & Makeup Properly
Really obvious but you'd be suprised!
Before you touch your skin or your products, always start with clean hands. It’s the simplest step, yet one of the most overlooked. Think of it as your pre-cleanse for everything that follows — because even the best products can’t do much if bacteria and dirt sneak in first.
And here’s a golden rule that never gets old: never sleep in your makeup. No matter how tired you are, your skin needs that overnight reset to breathe, repair, and renew. A quick cleanse before bed can make all the difference between waking up glowing or breaking out.
Don’t Let the Dropper Touch Your Face
When the dropper touches your skin, tiny amounts of bacteria can transfer straight back into the bottle — and over time, that can contaminate your product. Even if your face is freshly washed, skin still carries natural oils and microbes that don’t belong in your serum.
The fix is super simple: dispense a few drops into your clean palm, then press it gently into your skin. Or, if you prefer applying directly from the dropper, just hover it close without letting it touch your face. You’ll still get the same glow, hydration, and results — minus the contamination.
Don’t Share Your Skincare
As tempting as it is to share your favorite mask or cream (especially when someone asks what you’re using for that glow), it’s better to keep your skincare personal. Your skin microbiome — the natural balance of bacteria living on your skin — is completely unique to you.
When you share products, you’re also sharing bacteria that don’t belong to your skin. What’s harmless to someone else might cause irritation, clogged pores, or surprise breakouts for you.
Think of it like a toothbrush or lip balm — some things just aren’t meant to be shared. Keeping your skincare routine personal helps protect your skin barrier and keeps your products working their best.
Keep Tools Clean — Rollers, Gua Sha, Brushes
Your skincare tools deserve just as much attention as your products. Facial rollers, gua sha stones, or cleansing brushes can accumulate product residue and bacteria if not washed regularly. Rinse them after each use with gentle soap and warm water, and let them air dry completely before storing.
Here's an in depth look into our favourite hack to clean your brushes:
Keep Lids Tightly Closed & Store Wisely
Your bathroom might feel like the perfect vanity spot, but heat and humidity can quietly mess with your skincare. When products are constantly exposed to steam or temperature changes, their formulas can break down faster — especially if they contain active ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, or AHAs.
To keep your products performing at their best, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. And while a skincare fridge isn’t a must-have, it can be a nice touch — especially if you love that refreshing, cooling effect.
Know When to Let Go
Most skincare products have a tiny open-jar symbol on the packaging — it usually says something like “6M” or “12M.” That’s your product’s PAO (Period After Opening), which tells you how long it stays fresh and effective once opened. It’s an easy detail to overlook, but it makes a big difference in how well your products work.
If your cream starts to separate, smell a little off, or feel different in texture, it’s probably time to let it go. Expired formulas can lose their potency — or worse, cause irritation, clogged pores, or breakouts.
So even if it’s a longtime favorite, your skin will thank you for replacing it. Think of it as part of good skincare hygiene — keeping your routine clean, safe, and effective.
Clean Pillowcases & Towels Often
Even if your skincare is flawless, dirty fabrics can undo your work overnight. Pillowcases and face towels collect oil, product residue, and bacteria — so wash them regularly. Think of it as extending your skincare routine beyond the bathroom.
It’s your favourite cozy spot — now here’s how to make it just as good for your skin too.
More Than Just Clean Skin
Caring for your skin starts long before application. It’s in the way you store, handle, and respect your products.
These small rituals — the ones that keep your skincare clean and your formulas protected — are what turn an everyday routine into something elevated and effortless.
With love,
Alia
