Are You Applying Skincare the Wrong Way? Top Mistakes Nigerians Reportedly Make

Building a skincare routine is a journey for many Nigerians and West Africans striving for vibrant, healthy skin in our unique climate. For some, it feels like no matter what creams, serums, or washes they invest in, that elusive “glow” remains just out of reach.

You’re definitely not alone if you’ve felt disappointed with your skincare results—even when you’re ticking all the boxes with recommended products. The real difference-maker is often not what you buy, but how you use it. Small missteps in your daily regimen could hinder your progress or even cause new skin concerns, especially under our intense sun and humidity.

This frustration is familiar to countless Nigerians, Lagosians, Ghanaians, and, indeed, people across Africa and the world. Many of these issues stem from repeating easy-to-miss mistakes. Below, we highlight the most common skincare application blunders seen in our region, and offer expert-backed solutions tailored to local lifestyles and skin types.

1. Skipping the Patch Test

Always do a patch test for your new skincare [Glam]

Far too often, people apply a new skincare product directly to their face without testing it first—and end up with redness, itchiness, or even painful breakouts as a result. According to Dr. Olumide Bakare, a Lagos-based dermatologist, “Patch testing is crucial, especially in Nigeria where many products are imported and may contain ingredients unfamiliar to your skin type.”

Apply a small amount of the new product to your inner wrist or along your jawline. Leave it for at least 24 hours and watch for any allergic reaction or sensitivity. If there’s no itch, swelling, or redness, it’s likely safe for wider use. This single step can help you avoid a lot of regret and wasted money.

2. Using Too Much Product

There’s a common misconception across West Africa that “the more, the better.” With trending beauty routines all over Instagram and TikTok, it’s easy to believe slathering on an extra layer will double results. But in reality, overloading your skin can lead to clogged pores and irritation—especially in humid weather common from Lagos to Accra.

Using too much skincare product can overwhelm your skin [iStock]

A little goes a long way: For most serums and moisturisers, a small, pea-sized amount is enough to cover your entire face. This saves you money and helps the product absorb effectively, says Ghanaian beauty blogger Ama Gyan (2023). Always refer to the usage instructions; manufacturers typically recommend the optimal quantity for results.

3. Applying Products in the Wrong Order

Layering your skincare incorrectly can prevent certain ingredients from working properly, or even cause them to cancel each other out. For example, applying an oil-based product before your serum may create a barrier that blocks further absorption.

Experts suggest applying products from the lightest to the richest: start with products that have a watery or thin consistency—like toners and serums—before moving on to creams and, finally, sunscreen. In Nigeria’s often harsh midday sun, making sunscreen your final step is non-negotiable for best protection and efficacy.

4. Rubbing Too Hard

Vigorously scrubbing your face, whether with a towel or scrub, is not only uncomfortable, it can seriously harm the delicate skin barrier. According to Dr. Ngozi Okoye, a consultant dermatologist based in Abuja, “Over-exfoliating or rubbing can worsen acne, increase sensitivity, and even lead to hyperpigmentation for people with melanin-rich skin.”

Use gentle, upward motions when applying products, and always pat your face dry using a soft towel. When using cleansers or exfoliators, massage them in lightly—think of it as feeding your skin, not punishing it. Your future face will thank you for this soft touch approach.

5. Forgetting Sunscreen

“I have dark skin, do I really need sunscreen?” This is a question experts hear frequently in Nigeria and across West Africa. The answer, supported by the World Health Organization, is a resounding yes. UV rays in our region are potent year-round, whether you’re walking in Lagos traffic or sitting by a window in your Abuja workspace.

To protect against premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and even skin cancer, make it routine to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or above every morning. Reapply every two hours if you’re outside or after sweating. Consistent use is one of the true secrets to maintaining clear, even-toned skin despite the tropical weather.

6. Not Waiting Between Steps

If you dash through your skincare in a hurry, your efforts may be less effective. “Many of my patients want fast results and rush the process, but proper absorption takes time,” notes Dr. Danjuma Ibrahim, a skincare clinician in Abuja.

After applying each layer—especially serums and treatments—wait at least a minute or two before moving to the next to allow for maximum absorption. This patience pays off with visible improvements over weeks and months, not just days.

7. Ignoring Your Neck and Hands

Apply your skincare products to your neck and hands [iStock]

It’s easy to forget that signs of ageing and sun damage don’t just show up on your face. In reality, your neck and hands—often exposed to the elements while commuting or shopping outdoors—are some of the first areas to reveal your age.

Apply moisturisers and sunscreen to your neck, upper chest, and the backs of your hands daily, as you do with your face. According to Accra-based aesthetician Nana Mensah, “these simple steps can help you maintain an even skin tone and prevent visible sun damage over time.”

Perfect skin doesn’t require an expensive, 10-step system. But mindful, consistent care is essential. By avoiding common mistakes—like skipping patch tests, over-applying, using the wrong order, or neglecting key areas—you give your skin its best chance to thrive, no matter the climate or environment.

In our fast-paced cities and towns, from Lagos to Kumasi, staying committed to proper routines can make all the difference. As always, remember to tailor your approach to your unique skin needs, and seek advice from professionals where necessary. True radiance is possible for everyone.

Have you struggled with any of these skincare mistakes—or do you have a unique tip that works for your skin in Nigeria or West Africa? What’s your skincare routine like in your part of Africa, and what lessons have you learned? Drop your thoughts and tips in the comments below and join our growing community of skincare enthusiasts.

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