Navigating Skincare Myths What Works and What Doesn’t

October 15, 2024

When you have a skin problem, you will hear a lot of advice online and offline. This abundance of advice can feel overwhelming. There are many ways people say you can get healthy skin, some old and some new. So, it’s essential to know what works and which doesn’t.

Unfortunately, many myths have gained traction over the years, leading people to follow skincare routines that may do more harm than good.

So you need expert advice from a professional who has the knowledge and certification in the subject matter.

In this post, I will explain some of the most common skincare myths and clarify what really works to maintain healthy, glowing skin.

Myth #1: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer

The Myth: If you have oily skin, applying moisturizer will worsen it.

The Truth: All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. Skipping moisturizer can increase oil production because dehydrated skin tries to produce more oil to compensate for a lack of moisture.

The key is choosing the right kind of moisturizer. For oily skin, opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers that hydrate without clogging your pores. Moisturizing creams that contain hyaluronic acid or glycerin are better for oily skin because they provide moisture without adding excess oil.

Myth #2: You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days

The Myth: If the sun isn’t shining, there’s no need for sunscreen.

The Truth: On cloudy days, the sun also produces UV rays, meaning your skin is still at risk for damage, even on overcast days. Up to 80% of UV rays can reach your skin through the clouds.

If your skin quickly burns to sunlight or if you have a sun allergy, apply sunscreen daily, no matter the weather. Sunscreen will protect you from these sunlight reactions, premature aging (if your skin/body looks older than its actual age), and decrease the risk of skin cancer.

Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher, and reapply throughout the day outdoors.

Myth #3: Natural Products Are Always Better for Your Skin

The Myth: If it’s labeled “natural,” it’s safer and more effective.

The Truth: Just because a product is labeled as “natural” or “organic” doesn’t mean it’s better for your skin or less likely to cause irritation. Some natural ingredients, like essential/citrus oils or plant extracts, can be harsh on sensitive skin and lead to (UV) reactions.

Conversely, many synthetic ingredients are carefully formulated to be safe and effective.

The best approach is to examine a product’s specific ingredients and how they suit your skin type rather than assuming “natural” means superior.

Myth #4: You Can Shrink Your Pores

The Myth: Certain products can reduce the size of your pores.

The Truth: Pore size is primarily determined by genetics, and you can’t shrink, remove, or eliminate them.

However, certain skincare practices can make your pores appear smaller. Keeping your skin clean and exfoliated will help prevent debris from clogging your pores, which can make them look more prominent.

Products with salicylic acid or retinoids can also help by promoting cell turnover and minimizing the appearance of pores over time.

Myth #5: The More You Exfoliate, the Better

The Myth: Exfoliating every day will give you smoother, clearer skin.

The Truth: Over-exfoliating can strip your skin of essential oils and lead to irritation, dryness, and even breakouts. While exfoliation is crucial for removing dead skin cells and promoting cell renewal, moderation is key.

Most skin types should limit exfoliation to 1-3 times per week, depending on their sensitivity and the type of exfoliator used (physical scrubs vs. chemical exfoliants). Always follow up with a moisturizer to restore hydration.

Myth #6: Expensive Skincare Products Are Always More Effective

The Myth: Higher price tags mean better results.

The Truth: Just because a product is expensive doesn’t mean it’s more effective than its drugstore counterpart.

Many affordable skincare products contain high-quality ingredients that deliver the same, if not better, results than luxury brands. The key is to focus on the ingredients and formulations that work for your skin rather than the brand name or price tag.

Consistency and following a tailored skincare routine will yield better results than simply opting for pricey products.

Myth #7: You Only Need to Use Sunscreen When You’re Outside

The Myth: Sunscreen is only necessary for outdoor activities.

The Truth: UVA rays, which are responsible for skin aging, can penetrate through windows. This means that your skin is exposed to harmful rays even indoors, especially near windows or in cars.

Applying sunscreen every morning, even if you stay inside most of the day, is essential for long-term skin health. If you work near a window or spend much time driving, make sure to protect your skin.

Myth #8: Acne Only Affects Teenagers

The Myth: Once you’re out of your teen years, acne is a thing of the past.

The Truth: Adult acne is common and can be triggered by various factors, including hormones, stress, diet, and skincare habits.

It’s important not to treat adult acne the same way you might treat teenage acne, as adult skin tends to be drier and more sensitive.

Gentle cleansers, targeted treatments like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, and moisturizers suited for acne-prone skin can help manage breakouts at any age.

Myth #9: Drinking Water Alone Will Hydrate Your Skin

The Myth: Your skin will stay hydrated if you drink enough water.

The Truth: While staying hydrated is important for overall health, simply drinking water won’t address external factors that affect skin hydration.

Environmental conditions, skincare products, and your skin barrier play a role in maintaining moisture levels. You can use hydrating products like serums and moisturizers to avoid skin dehydration.

Conclusion

With so much skincare advice out there, it’s easy to fall for myths that may not be beneficial for your skin. By understanding the facts and choosing scientifically backed skincare practices, you can create a routine that truly works for you.

Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s crucial to listen to your skin’s unique needs and consult with professionals when necessary. This attentive approach will ensure your skin gets the care it deserves.

At R·MEDYᴹᴰ Aesthetics, we are here to support you in your skincare journey, providing expert advice and effective treatments tailored to your skin’s needs.

Navigating Skincare Myths What Works and What Doesn’t