In today’s information-saturated world, skincare advice is everywhere, from TikTok influencers to beauty aisles and well-meaning friends. But not everything you hear or read is true. In fact, many commonly believed skincare myths could be doing more harm than good.
Let’s bust 10 of the most harmful skincare myths and show you what to do instead to keep your skin healthy and glowing.
1. Myth: Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer
The truth: Skipping moisturizer because your skin is oily can backfire. When skin is dehydrated, it can overproduce oil to compensate, leading to more breakouts and shininess.
What to do instead: Use an oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin that hydrate without clogging pores.
2. Myth: The more you wash your face, the clearer it will be
The truth: Overwashing strips your skin of natural oils, causing irritation, dryness, and even more breakouts. Your skin needs a balanced barrier to stay healthy.
What to do instead: Wash your face twice daily — in the morning and before bed — using a gentle cleanser suitable for your skin type.
3. Myth: Natural products are always better for your skin
The truth: “Natural” doesn’t always mean safe or effective. Some natural ingredients can be irritating or allergenic (think lemon juice, baking soda, or essential oils used undiluted).
What to do instead: Choose products based on science and your skin’s needs — not just on labels. Dermatologist-approved ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides, and salicylic acid are safe and effective.
4. Myth: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days or if you have dark skin
The truth: UV rays penetrate clouds and still reach your skin even on overcast days. People with melanin-rich skin may not sunburn as easily, but they are still vulnerable to UV damage, pigmentation, and even skin cancer.
What to do instead: Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher daily, regardless of the weather or your skin tone.
5. Myth: Toothpaste can clear pimples
The truth: This old-school trick might dry out a pimple temporarily, but it can also burn and irritate your skin, making the problem worse.
What to do instead: Use targeted acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, or opt for other treatments recommended by dermatologists.
6. Myth: Pores open and close with hot or cold water
The truth: Pores don’t have muscles, so they can’t “open” or “close.” What hot water does is soften debris inside the pores, making them appear smaller when clean. Cold water can temporarily tighten the skin, but it doesn’t actually close pores.
What to do instead: Use products with exfoliants (like alpha hydroxy acids or salicylic acid) to keep pores clean and minimize their appearance over time.
7. Myth: Scrubbing harder makes your skin cleaner
The truth: Harsh scrubbing damages your skin barrier, leading to inflammation, redness, and breakouts. It can even accelerate aging.
What to do instead: Gently exfoliate once or twice a week using a mild chemical exfoliant or a soft physical scrub. Respect your skin’s sensitivity.
8. Myth: Anti-aging products are only for older people
The truth: Prevention is better than cure. Starting anti-aging products too late might make it harder to reverse existing damage.
What to do instead: Incorporate gentle, preventative ingredients like antioxidants (e.g., vitamin C) and sunscreen in your 20s. Retinol and peptides can be introduced gradually under guidance in your 30s.
9. Myth: Acne is only a teenage problem
The truth: Adult acne is increasingly common, especially among women due to hormonal changes, stress, and environmental factors.
What to do instead: If acne persists beyond adolescence, consider seeing a dermatologist. Adult acne may require different treatment approaches than teenage breakouts.
10. Myth: More products mean better results
The truth: Layering too many products can overload and irritate the skin. Not all ingredients work well together (e.g., mixing retinol with vitamin C or AHA can be harsh).
What to do instead: Keep it simple. A basic routine of cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is enough for many people. Introduce treatments one at a time, allowing your skin to adjust.
Final Thoughts
Skincare should empower you, not confuse you. Falling for popular myths can cost you time, money and your skin’s health. Stick to scientifically backed advice, understand your skin type, and remember: less is often more.
If you’re unsure about what’s best for your skin, consult a dermatologist. Your skin is unique and it deserves care tailored to you, not to viral trends.
