As with other aspects of our lives, we all have somehow put together some sort of a skincare routine, even if it’s just a step or two. Whether using skincare regimens passed down from previous generations or recommendations from influencers, it’s difficult to figure out the ones that might help us.
This is why it comes as no shock that the world of skincare is loaded with myths and false information.
With some false claims being based off marketing strategies used by influencers and even other people relying on things said to them in the past, skincare is one aspect that is filled with misconceptions designed to warp the truth.
I’m sure many of us can relate having put a lot of thought and frustration into which products will help them, only to later realize they had misconstrued a load of assumptions when wanting the best for their skin.
In this article, I hope to tackle the common myths surrounding skincare while offering useful pieces of advice proven to improve your regimen.
Key Takeaways
- Apply sunscreen even under the cover of clouds
- Moisturizers are still a requirement for oily skin
- Over-the-top price tags don’t determine value
- Forget about the overhyped notion that too much exfoliation equals better skin
- Start your anti-aging plans early to help delay signs
Myth #1: “You Only Need Sunscreen on Sunny Days”
As human beings, it is only logical that we presume sunscreen is only necessary during bright, sunny weather. But believe me when I say winter days are just as important as summer days when it comes to slathering sunscreen on your skin.
The Real Deal with UV Rays
The fact of the matter is, UV rays don’t need blue skies to wreak havoc. While we all assume the sun relies on the sky to shine, the damaging Over 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can still get through the clouds. And, yes, even when you’re indoors, those rays have the capacity to seep through windows.
If your plans involve skipping sunscreen on cloudy or rainy days, your skin will certainly not appreciate it. Those pesky UVA rays responsible for aging skin don’t take breaks, so regardless of the weather, sunscreen is a necessity.
What You Should Do
Make wearing sunscreen a priority. Make sure it is broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Put it on generously every morning and if you are outside for long periods of time make sure to reapply every two hours. Don’t forget to do it while running errands as well because UV can be unexpected.
Myth #2: “Washing Your Face with Hot Water Opens Pores”
Who hasn’t heard the saying that washing one’s face with hot water opens the face pores? This is a common saying that many people have accepted over the years, but the truth is quite different. From a layman’s perspective, it makes sense. Hot water seems to make skin softer, and hence must clean the pores better, right?
Why This Myth Doesn’t Hold Water
The fact of the matter is that pores do not open or close like windows. While certain conditions, such as heat, may cause your skin to relax, the size of your pores do not change. What actually occurs when you use hot water is that it can harm your skin. Hot water can strip the natural oils your skin needs to be hydrated and healthy.
Instead of using hot water, try cleansing your face with lukewarm water. It is gentle and effective, and won’t cause any harm.
A Better Approach
Use lukewarm water, followed by a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type. For all the sensitive skin folks out there, do not scrub your skin too aggressively, and always seal the deal with a calming toner to bring equilibrium.
Myth #3: “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer”
Perhaps you are one of those who believes that oily skin does not need moisturizer. This belief stems from the misconception that not applying moisturizer would result in the skin producing lesser oil. However, this oil control assumption is wrong and can be detrimental.
The Truth About Oily Skin
This is the part where many people skip out – skin like ours requires moisture to regulate its balance. In drier conditions, the skin can set off the under skin oil glands (sebaceous) to produce more oil, thus resulting in oilier skin. This is often the case with oily skin – people get into angry cycles with their oil.
Do not stop using moisturizers, rather, switch to an oil control moisturizer which can aid in refreshing skin without making oil levels go higher.
What You Can Do
Make sure to buy oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers, and check for gel-based moisturizers as they tend to pair with oily skin and hydrate without blocking pores.
Myth #4: “Natural Skincare Products Are Always Better for Your Skin”
Thinking that all-natural skincare products are better for your skin is easy. They come from plants, right? Adhering to the mindset that everything ‘natural is good’ is inherently flawed.
The Truth About “Natural” Skincare
Some natural components can cause irritation, especially if your skin is delicate. Take essential oils for example; they are quite common in natural skincare but can cause allergic reactions too. Plant based oils and extracts are not always beneficial, nor are they suitable for every skin type.
What You Should Know
Even when labeled as natural, take the ingredient list of the product into consideration. If you have sensitive skin, make sure to patch test before applying the product all over your face.
Myth #5: “Expensive Skincare Products Are More Effective”
Like everything else, skincare comes down to economics, and we often resort to an overpriced option believing it to be the best. But, price does not equal value effective.
The Reality of Expensive Products
The formulations behind the products is what matters most. The active ingredients and their absorption rate influence the product’s effectiveness. You do not have to go broke in order to recieve good results. Most of the time, cheaper products have the same active ingredients as more expensive products.
What You Should Do
When it comes to skincare, look for the active ingredients instead of the price. If you are looking for hydration, then go for hyaluronic acid and for acne, you should go with salicylic acid. A good product speaks for its content, not the packaging.
Myth #6: “You Should Exfoliate Your Skin Every Day”
Exfoliation can benefit your skin as it gets rid of dead skin cells that accumulate on the face. It removes the old skin cells allowing the skin to breathe and feel fresh. But exfoliation on a daily basis is incorrect.
Why Daily Exfoliation is Too Much
If exfoliation is done too frequently, the skin is left dry and sore because of the damage inflicted on the skin’s protective barrier. Over exfoliating strips the skin of essential oils inflating it’s moisture reserves. As a matter of fact, doing this more than 2-3 times a week is oftentimes overdoing it.
What You Should Do
Use a gentle scrub or a chemical exfoliant to exfoliate once or twice a week. Your skin not only heals but will also appear smoother and more radiant without chances of irritation.
Myth #7: “Drinking Water Will Cure Dry Skin”
Staying healthy requires drinking water, but does not mean directly fixing the skin. If skin is dry, drinking lots of water is not the solution.
The Reality of Skin Hydration
Water doesn’t fix the skin all by itself, just as there is more to clothing than just the fabric. An absence of moisture on the skin can often be caused by the skin on the surface, and this can be remedied with accomplishing the right dosage of skin care products. Skin softening oils or lotions can also retain moisture with the aid of moisturizing.
What You Should Do
To accelerate healing, make sure to hydrate adequately and apply a thick moisturizer enriched with ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid. Such components boost moisture retention and smoothen the skin.
Myth #8: “If You Have Acne, You Should Avoid Moisturizer”
People who have acne often think that skipping out on moisturizer is a good idea, but is wrong because it drastically worsens one’s skincare routine while making sore spots redder.
Why Moisturizing Helps Acne-Prone Skin
It can greatly assist in restoring the equilibrium of your skin even when battling a breakout. Not doing so will make your skin more irritable, and depending on your skin type, may cause you to over lubricate in a reaction to trying to make things better. Most moisturizers will hinder moistures ability to thicken the skin and love to decrease the inflammation caused by acne.
What You Should Do
Purchase a “non-comedogenic” moisturizer, as this means it won’t clog skin. For people suffering from breakouts, aim for oil-free or gel moisturizers.
Myth #9: “You Only Need Skincare Products for Your Face”
Americans generally only think of facial care as skincare, but the skin on your neck, chest, and hands requires additional attention as well.
Why Your Neck and Hands Need Attention
Skin around the neck along with the hands is seen to be younger in terms of cosmetic work, so people will appreciate that extra care actually pays off. You’ll find evidence of profound skin aging on your neck or hands much earlier than noted on your face.
What You Should Do
Make sure to upload your routine to include these areas. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your neck and hands regularly and moisturize them the same way you do to your face.
Myth #10: “Anti-Aging Products Are Only for Older People”
People often think of those in their 40s or 50s as the only users of anti-aging products. But, did you know that it is possible to prevent aging signs from developing way before they are noticeable?
Why Starting Early Matters
There is always some benefit in protecting your skin long before the signs of aging appear. Using sunscreen, free-radical fighting antioxidants, and retinoids can stave off skin damage.
What You Should Do
Using anti-aging products should begin in the your late twenties or early thirties. There is no reason to wait until fine lines and wrinkles start showing up. Prevention should be the first step.
My Opinion
I hope feeling confident in taking care of our skin is easier now that some of the most common skincare myths have been busted. Skincare doesn’t have to be overly complicated. Stick to the facts, choose appropriate products for your skin type, and most importantly, do not let myths prevent you from getting the healthy, glowing skin you deserve.