The skin is the largest organ in the human body, and it reflects the general health and state of the body. As a result, maintaining excellent skin health entails far more than simply external practices. Skincare is a topic that has long been surrounded by myths and misconceptions. With an overabundance of advice available on the internet today, it is easy to fall prey into the trap of misinformation. These misconceptions can do severe harm to our skin.
In this blog, we will debunk some common skincare myths that you need to discard right away. By separating fact from fiction, you can ensure that your skincare routine is based on sound principles, leading to healthier and more radiant skin.
5 Skincare myths
Myth 1: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days
Fact
One of the biggest skincare myths in dermatology and medicine in general is that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days. UVA and UVB rays from penetrating your skin. Studies reveal that up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover, leading to skin damage and premature ageing.
Bottom line, it is crucial to wear sunscreen if you’re stepping outside, regardless of the weather conditions. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to provide adequate protection against UV rays.
Myth 2: Oily skin doesn’t need moisturising
Fact
Contrary to popular belief, oily skin still requires moisturisation. Some individuals with oily skin tend to skip moisturiser, fearing that it will make their skin even oilier. In truth, people who have oily skin frequently have dehydrated skin (skin that lacks water), and their skin then tries to compensate by creating too much oil, leading to increased oiliness and potential breakouts and acne.
It is recommended to opt for a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser that won’t clog pores and cause outbreaks. This will keep oily and acne-prone skin nourished and protected, promoting a healthier complexion.
Myth 3: Exfoliating every day is beneficial
Fact
Exfoliation is an essential step in any skincare routine as it helps remove dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover. However, exfoliating every day can do more harm than good. Over-exfoliation can disrupt the skin’s protective barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and sensitivity. It is recommended to stick to exfoliating no more than 1-2 times per week, avoiding harsh scrubs that can cause micro-tears in the skin.
Depending on your skin type, choose a gentle facial exfoliator with natural material that effectively bathes skin in oxygen, as it rapidly exfoliates, smooths and hydrates to help brighten skin and clear away dead skin cells.
Myth 4: Natural products are always better for the skin
Fact
Most people believe that natural, organic ingredients are better for the skin. However, the truth is that this belief has no factual basis. Not all natural ingredients are beneficial for the skin, and not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. Natural ingredients can cause allergies or sensitivities, just like their synthetic counterparts.
The most important aspect is understanding your skin’s needs and using products that are suitable for your skin type. Look for evidence-based ingredients backed by scientific research, whether they are natural or synthetic. Ultimately, it’s the formulation and quality of ingredients that determine a product’s effectiveness, rather than whether it is natural or synthetic.
Myth 5: Pores can be shrunk or enlarged permanently
Fact
Many people believe that by using various skincare products or treatments, they may permanently decrease or increase the size of their pores. The size of your pores, on the other hand, is mostly determined by heredity and cannot be considerably altered. While some skincare chemicals, including retinoids and niacinamide, can temporarily reduce the appearance of pores by lowering oiliness and improving skin texture, they cannot change the actual size of the pores.
Maintain a consistent skincare routine that includes washing, exfoliating, and using products that assist regulate excess oil production to keep your pores clean and less visible.
Closing thoughts
Skincare myths can prevent us from making informed choices about our skincare routines, leading to ineffective or even harmful practices. By debunking these common myths, we can adopt a more evidence-based approach to skincare. Remember, sunscreen should be worn every day, regardless of the weather, to protect against harmful UV rays. Moisturising is essential for all skin types, including oily skin, as it helps maintain the skin’s moisture balance.
Exfoliating should be done in moderation to avoid damaging the skin’s barrier. The efficacy of skincare products is not determined solely by whether they are natural or synthetic; it’s the quality and suitability for your skin that matters. Finally, while you can’t permanently shrink or enlarge pores, maintaining a consistent skincare routine can help minimize their appearance. By discarding these skincare myths, you can pave the way for healthier, more radiant skin.
