The Beauty Habits We're Saying Goodbye to in 2026
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Time to read 2 min
As beauty becomes smarter and more skin- and hair-conscious, 2026 is all about working with your body—not against it. From gentler skincare to smarter styling and sustainable energy, here’s what we’re officially leaving behind (and what to do instead).
1. Over Washing Our Face
Why: Cleansing first thing can strip the skin’s overnight barrier, leading to dehydration and sensitivity throughout the day.
Do this instead: Opt for a gentle refresh with hydrating mists or a mild cleanser that won’t disrupt balance.
Product pick: ASAP Daily Facial Cleanser – refreshes skin without compromising its natural barrier.
2. Thinking the Tougher the Scrub, the Smoother the Skin
Why: Physical exfoliants can cause micro-tears, irritation, and inflammation—especially on sensitive skin.
Do this instead: Advanced exosome technology supports skin renewal at a cellular level, without abrasion.
Product pick: Instant Exosome FreezeFrame – smooths and revitalises skin gently, no scrubbing required.
3. SPF Only on Sunny Days
Why: UV rays penetrate clouds and windows, accelerating premature ageing even on overcast days.
Do this instead: Make sunscreen part of your daily skincare routine, rain or shine.
Product pick: KORA Organics Silky Sun Drops Protection Serum SPF 15 – lightweight protection with skincare benefits.
4. Neglecting Our Scalps
Why: Build-up and dead skin can clog follicles, impacting scalp health and hair growth.
Do this instead: Treat your scalp like skin—regular exfoliation supports stronger, healthier hair.
Product pick: evo Head Start Scalp Exfoliator – clears build-up and rebalances the scalp.
5. Making Frizz the Enemy
Why: Frizz is often caused by uneven heat, humidity, and excessive passes with styling tools.
Do this instead: Use tools designed to smooth more hair in fewer passes, with controlled heat for consistent results.
Product pick: ghd Chronos Max Wide-Plate Hair Straightener (43mm) – delivers sleek, frizz-free hair with enhanced shine.
6. Protecting Our Hair Only Pre-Styling
Why: Heat protection doesn’t stop once styling is done—hair remains vulnerable to dryness and damage.
Do this instead: Follow a two-step routine: protect before styling, seal and shine after.
Product pick:
- Pre-dry: Davines OI All In One Milk – preps and protects hair.
- Post-dry: L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Vitamino Color Spectrum Glass Shine – locks in shine and smoothness.
7. Relying on Waterproof Mascara for Longevity
Why: Waterproof formulas can dry out lashes and require harsh removal, leading to breakage over time.
Do this instead: Choose long-wear mascaras that stay put but remove gently.
Product pick: Jane Iredale Lash Fixation Tubing Mascara – smudge-resistant, lash-safe, and easy to remove.
8. Keeping With Boring Lip Shades
Why: Neutral shades are timeless, but bold lips instantly elevate your look and mood.
Do this instead: Experiment with vibrant colours and high-shine finishes.
Product pick: Napoleon Perdis Pink Skies Lip Gloss Trio – playful, expressive, and modern.
9. Being Scared of the Fringe
Why: A fringe is the fastest way to refresh your look—no full haircut required.
Do this instead: Use easy, heat-friendly tools to shape and revive your fringe at home.
Product pick: Kitsch Ceramic Thermal Rollers – effortless volume and polish.
10. Having Way to Many Coffees to Count
Why: Too much caffeine can spike energy levels, followed by an inevitable crash.
Do this instead: Support sustained energy, hydration, and glow from within—without the highs and lows.
Product pick: Vida Glow Liquid Collagen Skin + Energy – Green Apple – – supports natural energy and radiant skin.
As we head into 2026, beauty is less about doing more and more about doing better. From protecting your skin barrier and scalp health to choosing smarter styling tools and sustainable energy support, these small habit shifts deliver big results. By leaving behind outdated routines and embracing science-backed, skin- and hair-friendly alternatives, you’re setting yourself up for healthier, more radiant results—inside and out. Because the best beauty routines don’t fight your body, they work with it.