8 Skincare Myths You Need to Stop Believing Right Now

In a world overflowing with skincare advice, it’s hard to separate fact from fiction. One day, coconut oil is a miracle worker; the next, it’s a pore-clogging villain. With social media influencers, product marketers, and well-meaning friends contributing to the noise, it’s all too easy to fall victim to common skincare myths.But fear not! Today, we are debunking some of the most pervasive skincare myths that have been around for quite a while. Curated by the experts at Totality Skincare, these exposés will arm you with the knowledge required to achieve healthy, glowing skin based on science, not hype.Let’s get started!

Myth 1: The More You Wash, the Better Your Skin Will Be

Reality Check: Contrary to popular belief, excessive cleansing can do more harm to your skin than good. While keeping your face clean is necessary, over-washing strips your skin of its natural oils. This can lead to dryness, and irritation, and even trigger an overproduction of oil, making your acne worse.

The Takeaway: Wash your face twice a day – once in the morning and once at night before going to bed. Use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser suited to your skin type. If you have particularly oily or acne-prone skin, consider a more targeted skincare routine, but resist the urge to scrub too hard.

Myth 2: Natural Products Are Always Safe or Better

Reality Check: It’s easier to believe that natural or organic products are good for your skin. Unfortunately, these labels don’t always guarantee safety or efficacy. While natural products are an excellent choice, some plant-based oils or extracts may irritate sensitive skin or trigger allergic reactions. On the other hand, lab-tested skincare products can be more effective and safer.

The Takeaway: Focus on what works for your skin, whether it comes from nature or a lab. Instead of relying on buzzwords, it's important to read labels and do a patch test before trying new products. Paying attention to how your skin reacts to a product, whether natural or synthetic, can go a long way in maintaining a healthy, supple skin.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days or When Indoors

Reality Check: Many people think they don't need sunscreen indoors or on cloudy days, but that's not true. UV rays penetrate through clouds and glass windows, meaning your skin gets exposed even when it’s overcast, or you are on the couch Netflixing. Both UVA and UVB rays contribute to premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer, making it necessary to use sunscreen, whether you are inside or outside.

The Takeaway: Make sunscreen a daily habit. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply it throughout the day if you are spending more time outdoors. There are plenty of lightweight, non-greasy options that suit all skin types.

Myth 4: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer

Reality Check: Skipping moisturizer is a common mistake among people with oily or acne-prone skin. If you have oily skin, and you avoid using moisturizer, it could actually worsen your skin health. Lack of a moisturizing routine can dehydrate your skin. It may counter this dryness by producing even more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.

The Takeaway: Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer designed for oily or acne-prone skin. It should contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid, which hydrates your skin without clogging pores, or Niacinamide, which helps regulate oil production.

Myth 5: Anti-Aging Products Are Only for Older People

Reality Check: Prevention is key when it comes to aging gracefully. Collagen, a plentiful protein in our body, supports healthy and elastic skin. But its production begins to slow down in your mid-20s, so starting an anti-aging routine early can be beneficial.

The Takeaway: Using anti-aging creams with antioxidants like vitamin C, as well as ingredients like retinoids, can help maintain elasticity, reduce fine lines, and protect your skin from environmental stressors. Sunscreen, antioxidants, and retinol can all play critical roles in keeping your skin young and healthy, regardless of your age.

Myth 6: You Can Shrink Your Pores

Reality Check: Pore size is largely determined by genetics, and while you can’t shrink them permanently, you can minimize their appearance. Pores may look larger when they are clogged with oil or debris, or when your skin is aging and losing collagen.

The Takeaway: Use products with salicylic acid to exfoliate and keep pores clean. Niacinamide can also reduce their appearance, and consistent sun protection helps prevent pores from becoming more noticeable over time.

Myth 7: Acne Only Affects Teenagers

Reality Check: Although it is largely believed to be a teenage problem, acne can strike at any age. Adult acne is more common than you think, with over 25% of women in their 40s reporting having acne. It could be a result of hormonal fluctuations during your menstrual cycle, stress, diet, and even some medications. Adult acne often requires a different approach than the acne treatments you might remember from your teenage years.

The Takeaway: Treat adult acne with care and patience. Products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or prescription medications may help. But if your breakouts are severe, you are better off consulting a dermatologist who can tailor a skincare routine specifically for you.

Myth 8: You Need to Use a Ton of Products for Good Skin

Reality Check: More isn’t always better. Overloading your skin with several products, especially if they contain potent active agents, can lead to irritation, redness, and a weakened skin barrier. You should always prioritize quality over quantity.

The Takeaway: A simple routine with a cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen is often enough for most people. You can add in products like an anti-aging serum or exfoliant based on your specific skin concerns. However, be wary of trends that promote complex, multistep regimens without scientific backing.

Bonus Tips for Healthy Skin

Hydrate Inside and Out:

Drinking water is essential for your overall health, as it helps regulate body temperature, remove toxins, and support overall organ function. Drinking water won’t automatically clear your skin, but it can help your skin stay plump and supple.

Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin looking fresh and healthy. Additionally, use hydrating skincare products like serums with hyaluronic acid or glycerin to lock in moisture and keep your skin barrier strong.

Mind Your Diet:

Your diet can impact your skin more than you might think. Diets high in processed foods, refined sugars, and dairy can intensify inflammation, which may contribute to acne or redness in some people.

Contrarily, antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fatty fish can help you fight oxidative stress and promote a healthier complexion. While food isn't the only factor in skin health, paying attention to your diet can go a long way in managing flare-ups.

Don’t Skip Patch Tests:

Trying new skincare products can be exciting, but be careful. Before using a product with active ingredients like retinol or exfoliating acids, do a patch test. Use it on an inconspicuous area like your wrist or the back of your ear, and observe it for 24–48 hours. If the product is safe, you can slowly add it to your skincare routine.

Final Thoughts

Skincare myths are everywhere, but a little skepticism can help you separate fact from fiction. The best skincare routine is one tailored to your individual needs, rooted in evidence-based practices, and adaptable as your skin changes over time. While it’s tempting to try every trendy product, remember that consistency and simplicity often yield the best results.

Totality Skincare is here to support your routine. We have everything you require, from skincare to haircare solutions, all under one roof. Check out our bestsellers and find a product that best suits your skin type.