Navigating the vast world of beauty can sometimes be tricky, given all of the misinformation and confusing advice out there. That is why knowing the myths and truths about skincare is essential.

Today we would like to take some time out of your day to debunk some myths surrounding skincare. Knowledge is power; as it relates to skin health. By increasing our knowledge about our skin's inner workings and functioning more easily, caring for it becomes simpler resulting in more successful practices and improved results from regular practices.

Highlights:

  1. Tight skin after cleansing means my skin is clean.
  2. The order in which you apply your skincare products doesn’t matter.
  3. Oily skin types shouldn’t use facial oils.
  4. Drinking more water will cure my dry/dehydrated skin.
  5. If your skincare burns, that means it’s working.
  6. You don’t need to exfoliate.
  7. You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days.
  8. The more often you wash your face, the better.
  9. Expensive skin care products work best.
  10. Rubbing alcohol will “kill” your acne.

1. Tight skin after cleansing means my skin is clean

Truth: After cleansing, many of us have experienced that familiar tightness that we associate with cleanliness.

Unfortunately, this sensation is a telltale sign for your skin - it indicates it has been stripped of its natural oils by soap or washes that do not meet pH balance requirements - since human skin naturally lies between 4.5-5.5. Too alkaline or acidic cleansing formulas may interfere with this natural balance and lead to serious harm to skin barrier function and even further complications.

Instead, the ideal outcome after cleansing should be soft and supple skin. For this, oil-based cleansers may provide better results than their gel or foaming equivalents.

2. The order in which you apply your skincare products doesn’t matter

Truth: For optimal skincare results, there is indeed an ideal order to apply skincare formulas. In general, we suggest starting thinnest to thickest; using water-based formulas first and layering heavier layers on top for added hydration and protection.

Step-by-step, your routine should consist of cleansing, toning or misting, serums, moisturizers, facial oils and sunscreen - finishing up with makeup products if desired - before finally applying makeup products as desired.

3. Oily skin types shouldn’t use facial oils

Truth: Another myth (that couldn't be further from reality) is that certain skin types, particularly oily ones, should avoid facial oils to prevent breakout activity or excess shine. But actually all skin types can benefit greatly from adding oil into their regular skincare regimen as it promotes barrier function and balance in their bodies.

Choosing an oil for your specific skin type can be tricky. If breakout activity is an issue, look for non-comedogenic plant-based or botanical oils such as rosehip oil. Facial oils work best when applied once or more frequently (if your skin is especially dry) in order to keep skin from becoming overly dehydrated and producing excess sebum to compensate.

4. Drinking more water will cure my dry/dehydrated skin

Fact: Although drinking plenty of H2O is vital for overall health, internal hydration doesn't necessarily translate to external skin hydration. Your skin takes time to absorb its benefits from what you drink; most people will still need topical products to address its moisture levels.

Your best option for maintaining adequate moisture levels in the skin is incorporating products, like hydrating toner and moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid into your routine.

5. If your skincare burns, that means it’s working

Truth: Although it may be normal for certain active ingredients to cause temporary discomfort when applied topically, a happy, healthy skin should never feel discomfort upon coming into contact with any product.

Stinging, burning and sensitivity typically indicate either that your barrier has been compromised, or the formula you are using is too aggressive - or both. Pain does not equal beauty; always listen to what your skin tells you and discontinue using the product if this reaction arises from using it.

6. You don’t need to exfoliate

Truth: This myth is certainly false! Nearly all skin types and conditions can benefit from exfoliation. Exfoliation prevents dead surface skin build-up that contributes to congestion, acne breakouts, dull complexion and rough texture - as we age, our cell turnover rate begins slowing down which necessitates regular exfoliation sessions to speed the healing process along.

Noting the differences in skin types is key when considering exfoliation needs. Healthy skin may tolerate exfoliation with alpha-hydroxy or beta-hydroxy products 1-3x weekly, while those with sensitive skin should use more gentle exfoliants like enzyme masks instead - and adjust frequency as necessary if any adverse reactions arise.

7. You only need to wear sunscreen on sunny days

Fact: Don't be fooled by cloudy skies: the sun's UV rays penetrate clouds and even many types of glass to deliver harmful UV radiation to you, no matter the temperature or weather conditions.

In order to remain safe from sun spots, irritation, permanent damage and even certain cancers, SPF must be worn daily during exposure to sunlight. Furthermore, its protective effect tends to fade after two hours or so; plan to reapply regularly.

8. The more often you wash your face, the better

Truth: Too much cleansing of the face is possible. Over-washing may disrupt the pH balance of the skin to the point that its natural protective barrier becomes compromised and lead to dry, irritated or reactive skin conditions.

Cleansing once or twice per day should be sufficient for most skin types; those with sensitive skin may find it more helpful to only cleanse once daily. You'll also be able to avoid many common side effects associated with over-cleansing by selecting gentler face wash formulas containing more oil-based ingredients.

9. Expensive skin care products work best

Truth: Performance of skincare depends more on its active ingredients than on price point. High end brands tend to carry an expensive price tag due to brand recognition or costly packaging; in these instances, performance matters regardless of price tag.

When shopping for cosmetics, one of the best ways to assess products is by reading ingredient labels. You may be amazed to discover just how many affordable options contain the same ingredients found in more costly alternatives and can achieve similar results.

10. Rubbing alcohol will “kill” your acne

Truth: Although alcohol appears in many skin care products, cosmetic grade alcohols differ significantly from concentrated rubbing alcohols. Because alcohol is very drying and harsh on the skin, direct application should never be done directly onto it.

Alcohol won't help much more than overdry your skin and make it produce excess oil to compensate. Instead, we suggest choosing ingredients designed specifically to address acne - like glycolic acid, beta-hydroxy acids, witch hazel or tea tree oil - which have proven much more effective and are much better suited to supporting skin health.