Key Takeaways
- All advice isn’t sound advice. Myths about skincare spread fast online, so focus on evidence-based guidance instead of viral hacks and outdated tips.
- The efficacy of ingredients is what matters most in skincare, not the price of the product.
- Educating yourself about different ingredients and understanding the science behind skincare helps you make informed choices as a consumer.
Skincare is a practice as old as civilization itself, evolving from ancient rituals with herbs and oils to the cleansers, serums, and moisturizers we use today. With such a long history comes an equally long list of confusing skincare myths and facts. And with skincare turning into a mainstream “trend” in recent years, misinformation has only grown exponentially, leading many people astray from what actually works.
While some misconceptions are pretty harmless, others actually set you back on your skincare journey. That’s why it’s so important to do your due diligence before following viral skincare “hacks” and advice you see online. Below, we’ve debunked common skincare myths with facts and the real science behind achieving healthy skin.
Myth 1: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer
A common myth about skincare is that people believe oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer, since it’s the very opposite of having dry skin. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Excess sebum production is the body’s compensatory response to a lack of hydration. Using a moisturizer restores balance in all skin types and keeps dryness as well as excess oiliness at bay.
Myth 2: Physical Exfoliants Cause Microtears
Physical exfoliants have been getting a bad rep ever since the term “microtears” took off. Are physical scrubs with large, abrasive particles bad for your skin? Yes. Does that mean all physical scrubs are like that? No. As with many skincare myths and facts, the truth is more balanced. High-quality exfoliants are formulated in a way that their particles are shaped more like smooth, miniature beads that gently slough off dead cells. They’re perfectly safe and effective.
Myth 3: Expensive Products Work Better
The price of a product doesn’t necessarily determine its quality or efficacy. An expensive serum from a popular brand might’ve been made using high-quality ingredients after lots of research, which would justify the price. But a more affordable alternative may contain the exact active ingredients at the same concentrations. So don’t let the prices determine your choice. Always check the ingredient list and reviews before splurging or trying to save.
Myth 4: Hot Water or Steam Opens Up Pores
Steam facials and hot showers are said to be one of the best ways to open and close pores. However, this is a skincare myth and not a fact! The fact is that pores can’t actually open or close! They’re simply openings to hair follicles and sweat glands that tend to accumulate dead cells, grime, and other impurities. Heat can help loosen this buildup and make your pores look cleaner. If you’re looking for ways to minimize the appearance of pores, just diligently follow a skincare routine for your skin type.
Myth 5: Bar Soaps Are Bad For Your Skin
Many people still believe that bar soaps have high pH levels, are too harsh on the skin, and cause dehydration. This is a skincare myth and not a fact. First, it’s important to note that body bar soaps are much different than beauty bars! Soap bars for the body are formulated to strip the skin of oils, and oftentimes, they do not contain moisturizers to replenish the skin’s moisture barrier. On the other hand, beauty bars are specifically designed for the skin on your face and are formulated with moisturizers, which replenish the skin’s moisture after cleansing. Today’s Beauty bars are typically pH-balanced and made from richly nourishing ingredients like goat milk that clean your skin gently.
Myth 6: You Need Sunscreen Only On Sunny Days
UV rays are emitted from the sun, so is it okay to skip sunscreen when it’s cloudy? The answer is no. This is a common myth about skincare, but here’s the debunked version: UV rays can penetrate through clouds and windows. They also become stronger when reflected by snow or water. So wear sunscreen whether it’s sunny or cloudy, whether you’re outdoors or indoors. Reapply every 2-3 hours, no matter the season or setting!
Myth 7: Acne Is Caused By Poor Hygiene
Ready for another skincare myth and fact? Myth: Acne results from not washing your face properly. It’s important to note that a multitude of factors, such as genetics, hormones, and stress, influence acne. If scrubbing your face raw could eliminate acne, nobody would be struggling with it. Gentle, targeted skincare for oily/combination skin is what actually works.
Myth 8: Skincare Will Give You Flawless Skin
What’s a skincare myth that was debunked ages ago, but is still believed? Consistent skincare will give you perfectly poreless skin. As a living organ, our skin naturally has texture and small “imperfections”. Skincare improves overall health and appearance, but it can’t erase the realities of being human. So set realistic expectations and be patient with viral trends like the glass skin routine. And remember that the goal isn’t perfection but health!
Myth 9: Natural Ingredients Are Always Better
As a brand that frequently uses terms like “clean beauty” and “natural”, we feel a responsibility to be transparent about widespread skincare myths and facts. Not everything natural is safe, and not everything synthetic is harmful. At Lea Black Beauty®, the word “natural” refers to high-quality botanical ingredients that are actually safe and effective for your skin. We encourage everyone to choose products with clinically proven efficacy, regardless of where the ingredient comes from.
Make Informed Choices With Lea Black Beauty®
Skincare myths and facts can be challenging to distinguish, but the right knowledge empowers you to make better decisions. At Lea Black Beauty®, we’re committed to transparency and proven results. Explore our skincare ingredients page, educational skincare videos, and our other blogs to learn more about what goes into our products and make choices that truly benefit your skin.
