Skincare Myths Debunked by Top Dermatologists and Cosmetologists
When it comes to skincare, misinformation is everywhere—from social media hacks to old wives’ tales passed down through generations. While some tips may be harmless, others can actually damage your skin or hinder your skincare goals. To help separate fact from fiction, we spoke to top dermatologists and cosmetologists who weighed in on some of the most common skincare myths.
Myth 1: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer
Nope, not true! If you’ve got oily or acne-prone skin, you might think moisturizer is your enemy, but skipping it can actually make your skin go into oil-production overdrive to make up for the dryness
Even oily skin needs hydration—just choose oil-free, non-comedogenic products,” says Dr. Maya Patel, board-certified dermatologist
Myth 2: Higher SPF = Way Better Protection
Not quite. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 gets you to 98%. After that, you’re barely gaining extra protection. What really matters? Slatherng on sunscreen every two hours, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.
A broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 is sufficient for most skin types,” says cosmetologist Nina Alvi. “Reapplication is key”
Myth 3: Natural = Always Skin -Friendly
In the world of skin care, “natural” doesn’t always mean “safe.” Just because an ingredient is plant-based or organic doesn’t mean it’s your skin’s BFF. Take lemon juice—it sounds like a wholesome DIY fix, but its high acidity can irritate or even burn your skin. Other natural ingredients like baking soda or cinnamon can also disrupt your skin’s barrier, causing dryness, inflammation, or breakouts.
“We often see reactions from DIY treatments using raw ingredients,” warns Dr. Samuel Lee. “Always patch test and consult a professional.”
Myth 4: Sunscreen’s Only for Sunny Days
Cloudy days don’t give you a free pass! UV rays sneak through clouds, and those sneaky UVA rays are out to age your skin and raise your skin cancer risk all year long
“Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable, regardless of the weather”, says dermatologist Dr. Rina Shah.
Myth 5: Pores Open and Close Like Tiny Doors
Spoiler alert: Your pores aren’t little trapdoors. They don’t have muscles to open or close. They can look bigger when they’re clogged or as your skin loses elasticity.
“Steam can soften debris inside pores, making extractions easier, but it doesn’t ‘open’ them,” explains cosmetologist Elena Ruiz.
Myth 6: Acne Is Just for Teens
Think acne’s only a high school struggle? Think again. Adult acne is super common, especially for women in their 30s and 40s, thanks to hormones, stress, or even the wrong makeup.
“Adult acne often requires a different treatment approach than teen acne,” says Dr. Arjun Mehta. “A dermatologist can help customize a plan
Myth 7: A Solid Skincare Routine Means You Don’t Need Pro Treatments
Love your cleanser-toner-moisturizer vibe? Awesome, but sometimes your skin needs a little extra TLC from treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy to level up your results.
“Think of your skincare routine as maintenance and professional care as repair and renewal,” suggests cosmetologist Layla Winters.
The Bottom Line
Skincare is super personal, and it’s easy to fall for the latest Instagram trend or DIY hack. But when it comes to your skin, stick to advice backed by science. Dermatologists and cosmetologists have the expertise to guide you, so skip the risky experiments and book a consult with a pro. Your skin will be glowing and grateful!
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