If you want to support independent women's media, become a Mamamia subscriber . Get an all-access pass to everything we make, including exclusive podcasts, articles, videos and our exercise app, MOVE

Has anyone else ever wanted to go back in time and give themselves a little punch in the face for saying silly things?

For years, my job has been to tell you exactly how to look after your skin. I've preached the 10-step routine. I've written about the transformative power of a double cleanse and layering serums. I've yapped on the You Beauty podcast and told you that a solid skincare routine every single night is non-negotiable.

Then, I had a baby.

And now I'd like to officially invite you to throw about 70 per cent of my previous advice directly into the bin.

Watch: Blepharoplasty is suddenly everywhere. So what is going on? And what are we 'allowed' to say about cosmetic surgery? Post continues below.

Yes! Very dramatic. But it's true! (Also, why didn't someone say anything, you guys? So embarrassed).

As a new mum with a very clingy baby who does not like to sleep, I'm not double cleansing. Or doing five different steps. Or using gua sha. Or making sure I use my LED mask.

There are nights when skincare is just a simple cleanse and moisturiser (if anything). And mornings are where I'm reminded how to actually do your makeup in five minutes (with one hand).

So, walk with me while I whisper all the sweet little nibblets of "expert" advice I'm officially retracting.

Sorry, pals.

1. The 10-step routine.

Look, I didn't always do 10 steps — but I wasn't far from it. I used to think a meticulous, layered routine was a commitment to excellence. Now, I realise it's a commitment to staying awake for 20 minutes longer than I physically can.

When you're operating on three hours of broken sleep, a stupidly long routine no longer feels like self-care for me. It just becomes an obstacle between me and my pillow.

Now, if a product doesn't do at least three things at once, it's not making the cut.

2. The double cleansing myth.

I used to say double cleansing was non-negotiable. "You have to remove the day, then clean the skin!" etc., etc. And look, double cleansing has its place, but honestly? If I'm not wearing a face full of makeup, one pass is plenty. We're moving on.

I also now keep micellar water and some cotton rounds by my bed for the nights I don't even make it to the bathroom sink.

3. The 'relaxing' sheet mask.

I used to suggest putting on a sheet mask to "relax" and "decompress." Have you ever tried to wear a slippery piece of wet fabric while leaning over a cot or folding a mountain of onesies? It's not relaxing. It's a hazard.

4. The 'five-minute' makeup routine that wasn't really five minutes.

There is a massive difference between a 15-minute makeup routine and a five-minute one. I used to talk about "quick" routines as a lazy girl who always missed the bus in the morning — I kindly want to go back, hold her hand, and tell her she has no idea what a quick routine actually is. These days, if it can't be applied with a thumb smudge, I don't want it.

5. The $200 serum.

I still love a fancy serum, don't get me wrong (hey, SkinCeuticals). But your skin will not fall off if you don't have a specific, high-end serum. I've realised that the best "night treatment" is actually just... sleep. Since I'm not getting any of that, my "routine" is now about survival, not luxury.

So, to anyone I told to "just wake up 15 minutes earlier" to do a facial massage or a full face of makeup: I am sorry. I was wrong. Go back to sleep.

Want to hear more from Erin Docherty? Follow her on Instagram .

For more tried and tested beauty recommendations, subscribe to the weekly You Beauty newsletter, join our You Beauty Facebook group, listen to the You Beauty podcast or watch You Beauty on YouTube.

At Mamamia, we independently curate and write about products we rave about in our group chats and think you should know about too. If you purchase a product we have recommended, we may earn a small commission.

Feature image: Supplied.