The end of the year isn’t just for reviewing goals and planning parties. It’s also the perfect time for a healthy cleanup of our daily routines. Over the past year, we’ve learned a lot about what truly makes our skin and hair thrive, and honestly, some old habits and outdated trends just don’t make the cut anymore. From harsh scrubbing to unnecessary complexity, we’re officially breaking up with the beauty mistakes of 2025. Here is our list of beauty habits and product sins we are happily leaving behind as we step into a more mindful and effective new year.
1. The End of Argressive Scrubbing
One of the most common mistakes we see is the belief that skin needs to feel “squeaky clean” to truly be clean. This often leads to over-exfoliation, particularly with harsh scrubs. In 2026, we are saying goodbye to aggressively stripping the skin. Over-scrubbing can damage the skin’s delicate moisture barrier, leading to redness, sensitivity, and even breakouts, the exact opposite of what we want. Instead of physical friction, we are embracing gentle chemical exfoliation (like AHA or BHA) 1-2 times a week, or using a very soft, creamy, non-foaming cleanser daily. It’s about respecting the skin’s barrier, not destroying it.
Try This:
Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm (100 g 2,700 THB) A luxurious cleansing balm that effectively removes makeup while caring for the skin. It gently exfoliates and nourishes with key ingredients including Elderberry Oil, Starflower Oil, and Padina Pavonica, leaving the skin soft, smooth, and refreshed.
2. The Expired Product Pile-Up
Let’s be real, that tube of mascara you bought last spring is probably way past its prime. Using cosmetics, especially those applied near the eyes, after their expiration date (the little “PAO” symbol, which looks like an open jar with a number inside) is a major hygiene risk. Products degrade, harbor bacteria, and become less effective. In 2026, we’re committing to regular, ruthless clean-outs. For items like mascara and liquid eyeliner, this is typically only 3-6 months. Set a digital reminder when you first open a product. If it smells or looks different, or if the time is up, toss it.
3. Overwashing Our Hair
For years, the standard was to wash your hair every day, sometimes twice. But unless you have highly active, oily hair, daily washing can strip your scalp of its natural, healthy oils, leading to dryness, dullness, and ironically, increased oil production as your scalp tries to compensate. In 2026, we’re stretching our wash days. For most hair types, washing every two to three days is ideal. On non-wash days, we’re using dry shampoo sparingly for volume and embracing heatless styles or protective hairstyles that maintain the natural oils and moisture.
Try This:
OUAI Super Dry Shampoo (127g 1,290 THB) A quick fix for oily hair without the need for a full wash. Just a light spray helps absorb excess oil and instantly refreshes the hair, leaving it clean and revived. Available in two signature scents, Cape Town and Melrose Place.
Phyto Phytocyane Invigorating Shampoo (250ml 800 THB) An invigorating shampoo formulated for women, enriched with Ginkgo biloba leaf extract, a powerful antioxidant. Infused with Pro-vitamin B6 and B5, along with organic rosemary extract, it helps revitalize the scalp and restore strength and vitality to the hair.
4. Ignoring the Body’s Skincare Needs
We spend so much time refining our facial skincare routines, double cleansing, serum layering, SPF application, but the skin on our body often gets neglected. The body needs attention too, especially the neck, chest, and hands, which show signs of aging just as quickly as the face. In 2026, we’re extending our skincare philosophy south of the chin. This includes applying dedicated body SPF, using moisturizing serums or oil after showering while the skin is still damp (to lock in moisture), and applying a targeted retinol cream to the chest and décolletage a couple of times a week.
Try This:
Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada™ Vitamin-Infused Lotion (400ml 1,290 THB) A deeply hydrating body lotion that replenishes the skin with nourishing ingredients including Brazilian sugarcane, Brazil nut oil, and a blend of seven types of hyaluronic acid, leaving skin soft, smooth, and supple.
Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Multi-Purpose Dry Oil (100ml 1,690 THB) A cult-favorite multi-purpose dry oil for the face, body, and hair. Formulated with 97% natural-origin ingredients and a blend of seven precious botanical oils. It deeply hydrates, helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks, and protects the skin from environmental aggressors.
5. Believing the Sun is Only a Summer Threat
One of the biggest collagen killers is chronic, unprotected UV exposure, and that happens all year round! Many people skip SPF on cloudy days or when they are simply staying indoors. UV rays, specifically UVA, which causes aging and damage, can easily penetrate glass windows at home, in the office, or in the car. Skipping sunscreen on winter days or when you are inside all day is a major mistake that accelerates aging. In 2026, SPF 30+ is a year-round, non-negotiable step. Apply it every morning, rain or shine, even if you are just working from home. If you want to simplify, use a multi-tasking moisturizer or foundation that already contains broad-spectrum protection.
As the final chapter of 2025 comes to an end, ditching these habits isn’t just about saving time or money, it’s about making space for more effective, kinder, and healthier routines. We’re excited to embrace a new year filled with conscious choices that support our skin, hair, and overall well-being. Let’s step into 2026 feeling confident, healthy, and perfectly pampered!
