What is the biggest skincare mistake you see people make all the time?
The biggest mistake I see is people not using a 50+ broad-spectrum SPF every day! Importantly, you also need to reapply especially if you are heading outdoors. If you don't protect your skin from UV, then there is really not much point in using any other products.

What’s happening to your skin when your barrier is inflamed, and how do you treat it?
The skin barrier describes the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis (and more specifically the stratum corneum which is the most superficial layer of the epidermis). This skin layer acts as a barrier that stops bacteria, and germs from entering our body, while also keeping water inside the body for hydration. This barrier can be disrupted or damaged by many things, including overdoing active ingredients, picking at the skin, or being exposed to harsh weather. When the skin barrier is damaged or inflamed it becomes very irritated and even the most gentle ingredients and products can sting or burn. If this happens, it's important to back off from the actives and let the skin heal (before re-introducing actives slowly).<

How long should you use a product before deciding if it works for you or not?
It's important to give a product a good 6-8 weeks before you decide if it is for you or not. The skin is always renewing itself, with this process taking on average 30 days so it's a good idea to give your skin a few cycles while using a new product to determine its efficacy. Also, keep in mind that the skin cycle lengthens with age, so as we get older it may take 8-12 weeks before you can decide.

Pigmentation: Pigmentation is one of the most common skin concerns. Aside from using a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, it is essential to use ingredients that will help minimize the pigment itself. Niacinamide (as contained in SkinCeuticals Metacell Renewal B3) is excellent at reducing pigment and brightening the skin. A topical antioxidant serum will also help, with SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF serum specifically formulated for pigmented skin.
Redness: General skin redness and irritation can be caused by many things- even a change in season can irritate some skin types. The SkinCeuticals Phyto-Corrective range has been formulated to calm and soothe skin redness. The Phyto-Corrective serum can be used daily to keep redness at bay, and the Phyto-Corrective Mist is a great addition to your handbag for when you need a quick spritz while on the move.
Breakouts: Breakouts can affect anyone at any time, despite normally being associated with adolescence. If you are an oily skin type who is blemish and breakout-prone, SkinCeuticals Silymarin CF serum is an excellent way to get your antioxidant protection while also reducing breakouts. The ingredient Silymarin helps to reduce oil production and oxidation, with benefits seen in as little as 4 weeks of use. SkinCeuticals Blemish & AGE cleanser and serum are also specifically designed to work against breakouts and can be incorporated into a daily routine together with Silymarin CF.