Well, think again. When it comes to skincare and beauty routines, what you may think is doing your skin good is not necessary the truth. Here, we set the truth on popular beauty routines that are actually harmful to your skin.

Whether it is over-scrubbing or not using the right products for our skin, each and every one of us are guilty of at least one bad beauty routine. The only difference is you probably don't know it yet! What you are doing on a daily basis can actually create more harm than good for your skin. Blame it on misinformation or just sheer laziness, that beauty mistake can actually cost you a fortune (if you are lucky!) to get it reversed.

So here to the rescue - the worst things you can do to your skin and what to do to get your routine back on track.

Bad Beauty Do: Over-scrubbing your skin

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: While you may think you are doing your pores a favour, think twice. Over-scrubbing can only lead to one thing (and it is not beautiful skin) - irritated and over-active glands. Rough grains in your scrub can irritate your skin to the point where it starts to overproduce oil.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Pick a gentle scrub and use it once or twice a week. When scrubbing, make sure you use gentle movements and not harsh ones.

Bad Beauty Do: Using sunscreen only once

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: Good on you for even including sunscreen in your daily routine but what you are doing wrong here is by not topping up your protection. While your sunscreen may offer you "all-day protection", the truth is that no sunscreen lasts more than four hours. So if you think just by applying once before you leave the house is enough, think again.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: The trick is not to apply more often (but this is also recommended); instead, it is about applying more sunscreen. SPF 15 is the minimum to go for but if you foresee yourself spending more time under the sun, pick one with a higher level of protection. Also, if you are spending time on the beach or doing something that includes exercise and sweating, reapply your sun block every two hours.

Bad Beauty Do: Following trends

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: Beta-hydroxyl acids, liquorice extract, grape seed oil or what you may - for every new product out in the market, there will always be a claim of its "latest technology", "newest ingredient", "guaranteed results". The truth is, while all of the above may be true, it does not mean that is the case with you. The fact of the matter?

- What may work for a friend doesn't necessary mean it may work for you.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Everyone wants to try the newest thing, especially when it claims to do so much for your skin. But here's one thing to remember - if it ain't broken, why fix it? If you are tempted to try something new, be wary. Read all you can from the ingredients label and if possible, try to get a sample size before you splurge on that expensive jar of cream. Also, if you do try something new, dermatologists recommend that you give your skin time to react before deciding if the product works.

Bad Beauty Do: Neglecting your neck down

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: What's the point of your skin looking fabulous neck up when things are going haywire from the neck down? It is a common mistake many of us do when applying beauty products, stopping just right at the chin. Alligator-skin on the neck is no doubt very unattractive and in worst case scenario, can become extremely dry and itchy bringing about unwanted skin infection.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Easy - look out for the skin below your neck to make sure you are giving total attention to your entire body. Slather on moisturiser the minute you step out of the shower and pay attention to dry hands. Apply moisturiser on your neck as well to prevent lines and ageing skin. When possible, go for a body massage to give your body a good treat.

Bad Beauty Do: Thinking that more is better

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: In some cases yes - more sunscreen, more water for your body - but when it comes to beauty, it is not necessary so. Slathering on too much moisturiser on your skin can only cause acne. Also, using treatment products more than recommended dosage can result in irritated and inflamed skin.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Do everything in moderation. Don't clog your skin up with too much skincare products; remember your pores need to breathe as well to maintain its health! If possible, go one day without using any skincare products to allow your skin to "rest".

Bad Beauty Do: Picking

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: Come on, admit it, this is something we ALL do once in a while. Perhaps the worst skincare offence of them all because picking your skin will leave a mark on your face for at least two weeks, or worst, forever! Not to mention if not done 'properly, you will risk aggravating the situation even more.

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Need we say more - just stop! Leave the picking to experts and even then you should stay away from having your skin picked at all. Let your pimple heal by itself so that it can vanish and heal on its own within a week.

Bad Beauty Do: Using products without doing your research

WHY IT IS BAD FOR YOU: Seems like a good idea to use the cleanser that your friend swears by, right? After all, isn't word of mouth the best advice ever? Not necessary so when it comes to skincare. Your friend could have a different skin concern altogether compare to yours. In fact, because your friend's skin is different from yours, what works on her might have the exact opposite affect on you!

WHAT TO DO INSTEAD: Read the label! By now, you should know what products or ingredients are good for you so why stop just because your friend swears by her new night cream? If possible, ask advice from a skincare expert on what ingredients to avoid for your skin.