Myths and misconceptions are never-ending when it comes to skincare. Whether whispered in online communities or discussed by beauty-savvy individuals skincare myths when not debunked can sabotage your quest for flawless glowing skin. Let the experts at Earthraga bust the most common skincare myths and arm you with science-backed facts.
Debunking Common Skincare Myths
When you separate fact from fiction, you build a skincare routine that’s perfect for your skin needs. Let’s check what are some common skin care myths.
Myth 1 - “You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days”
Truth: Around 80% of the UV rays of the sun can penetrate through the cloud cover, thus not using sunscreen on cloudy days can risk tanning, aging, dryness, and more. Using a sunscreen is important even on cloudy days.
Myth 2 - “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturization”
Truth: Skipping moisturizer will not make the skin feel less oily. On the contrary, the skin will produce excess sebum due to dehydration. Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic gel moisturizers for oily skin. You can opt for beneficial ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide to balance hydration without clogging pores.
Myth 3 - “Exfoliate Daily for Smooth Skin”
Truth: Over-exfoliation destroys your skin barrier and can lead to redness, sensitivity, and breakout. Avoid using physical face scrubs (walnut/almond) or chemical scrubs (AHA/BHA) every day. Use gentle face scrubs not more than 2-3 times a week for glowing skin.
Myth 4 - “Acne is a Teenage Problem”
Truth: Pimples do not vanish once you hit your 20s. Adult acne is real and can occur in people in their 30s and 40s too. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, pollution, and sun damage are factors for adult acne. You need targeted ingredients like salicylic acid face serum to treat acne.
Myth 5 - “Expensive Products Work Better”
Truth: A hefty price tag doesn’t always mean a superior product. More than the price tag of the product look for quality ingredients. Luxury brands may feel indulgent but they are not always effective. Instead of checking the price, look for science-backed formulas and superior ingredients like niacinamide, retinol, Hyaluronic acid, ceramides, peptides, and more. Focus on the ingredient list and not the logo!
Myth 6 - “Popping Pimple will Heal Faster”
Truth: Squeezing zits won’t clear them, you will risk pushing bacteria deeper inside the layers of the skin instead. Bacteria can cause inflammation, scarring, and more breakouts. Instead apply functional acne products like acne patches, salicylic acid serum, or spot treatment creams.
Myth 7 - “All Skin Types Can Have Same Routine”
Truth: Skincare is not one-size-fits-all. Your skin is as unique as your fingerprint. While dry skin craves deep hydration, oily skin thrives best with gel moisturizers. Similarly, matured skin needs ingredients that boost collagen, and sensitive skin requires fragrance-free formula. Listen to your skin’s needs and adjust your skincare regimen.
Myth 8 - “You Don’t Need Anti-Aging Products Until You’re 30+”
Truth: Prevention is the key! Sun damage and environmental stress are inevitable in today’s world. These are the key reasons for collagen breakdown in your 20s. Use ba road-spectrum sunscreen with hydrating ingredients to protect your skin against premature aging. Use hydrating night creams with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid for hydration.
Myth 9 - “All Dark Spots Are Hyperpigmentation”
Truth: Every dark spot is not hyper-pigmentation. You might get a dark spot on your skin for various reasons - acne marks, sun spots, and more. Protecting your skin every day with sunscreen is vital. However, hyperpigmentation might signal underlying issues like hormonal imbalance, melasma, etc. Consult a dermatologist to identify the cause and tailor treatments.
Myth 10 - “Drinking Water Alone Hydrates Your Skin”
Truth: Drinking enough water is good for proper body function, however, topical moisturizers (with occlusives like ceramides) are essential to lock in moisture. Dehydrated skin needs both internal and external care.
Myth 11 - “Sunscreens Will Damage Skin in the Long Run”
Truth: Sunscreen is perhaps the most important skin care product you should have in your daytime routine. Sun damage causes tanning, dryness, premature aging, and even the chances of skin cancer. Use natural sunscreens made with hydrating ingredients to protect your skin and your skin will thank you. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or 50 and PA +++ so that you are protected against both UVA and UVB rays of the sun.
Myth 12 - “Toners are Overrated - You Don’t Need Them”
Truth: Modern toners aren’t the astringents of the ’90s! Hydrating toners with ingredients like glycerin or rosewater replenish moisture, balance pH, and prep skin for serums. Skip alcohol-heavy formulas.
Myth 13 - “DIY Face masks only work, You do not need any special face pack”
Truth: Specialized face masks that target skin issues like fine lines, dullness, or acne are difficult to make at home. You can use DIY face packs for regular skincare and well-formulated natural face masks for treating various skin issues.
Take Away
Skincare is personal and must be designed according to your skin type. With skincare myths busted here, you must prioritize evidence-based practices, and tailor your skincare routine according to your skin’s needs. Earthraga’s nature-inspired skincare products are designed to make your skincare easier, more functional, and effective. Maintain a skin journal to track how your skin reacts to products, weather changes, or lifestyle habits. Remember, consistency is the key to skincare.
