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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UC Berkeley chapter.

Ever wonder why, even after scouring the internet for hours trying to achieve that glass skin look, you still wake up with breakouts and irritation? Why even after you bought all the products TikTok recommended, you still see little to no changes? Well, there’s more that goes into loving your skin than just buying the right products, so let’s dive into a couple of tips and tricks that could potentially change your skincare game for the better!

Pat, Don’t Rub!

When it comes to skincare, application is everything! You could be using all the best products and practices when it comes to healing your skin but if you’re not applying it properly your skin won’t be able to bask in those nutrients! According to Honest For Your Skin, patting in your products such as serums or moisturizers instead of rubbing them in allows your skin to absorb the product. When we rub product into our skin, there’s a chance we’re just rubbing product off our face and onto our hands so patting allows us to maximize the amount of product we use while also letting our skin soak into the product.

SPF Everyday!

Rain or shine, SPF is non-negotiable! Consistently applying sunscreen, even on cloudy days or on short errands, is an important step in skincare. By starting early and daily maintenance, you’re investing in your skin’s long-term health. The benefits of SPF extend far beyond protecting against sunburns; it shields your skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Additionally, SPF helps fortify your skin’s natural barrier, protecting the other skincare products you use from the harm of the sun. Think of it as a shield that blocks difficulties from your skin’s healthy glow for years to come!

Listen to Your Skin 

What’s beautiful about skin is that it’s unique and ever-changing. Hormones, stress, and environment can all play a factor in why you’re breaking out so it’s important to pay attention to how your skin reacts to different products and adjust your routine accordingly. If a product burns every time you use it, that does not mean it is “working!” Discontinue use and seek advice from a dermatologist or try out new products until you find the one that’s best for you.

Medicine cabinet packed full of skincare products
Megan Charles / Her Campus Media

Brush Your Teeth Before Your Skincare!

If you’re prone to breakouts around your mouth, this is for you! Not only is toothpaste sensitizing, but toothbrushes also carry a lot of bacteria that can easily spread to your skin if you’re not careful. That’s why after you brush your teeth, it’s recommended that you follow your skincare so any potential bacteria gets washed away with your cleanser and following products. If you brush your teeth after, the hard work that goes into protecting your skin may be ruined!

Embrace Your Natural Beauty

Skincare is about loving the skin you’re in. Those 30 minutes that you put into yourself are self-care at its finest, so don’t ever let breakouts get you down. Remember that it’s natural! Embrace your natural beauty, imperfections, and all, and never stop glowing!

Sophia Ardon

UC Berkeley '27

Sophia is a first year at UC Berkeley intending to major in Psychology and Media Studies and minor in Journalism. She works on the writing team and has enjoyed writing ever since she got her first diary. Sophia enjoys coffee, reading, and trying out new foods in the Bay Area!