If you've heard skincare advice everywhere, from TikTok to chatting with friends, you've probably come across a few myths that you don't know if they're true or not. Here, we're going to set the record straight and debunk those myths out there that may be affecting the way you care for your skin.
Myth 1: ‘If you have oily skin, you don't need moisturiser.’
**The Reality:** This myth is super common, but that doesn't make it true. Oily skin needs moisturiser too. If you don't moisturise well, your skin may produce even more oil to compensate, making the situation worse. The key is to choose a light, water-based cream that doesn't feel heavy. This helps to balance your skin without adding extra oil.
Myth 2: ‘You only need sunscreen in summer.’
**The Reality:** This is one of the most common misconceptions. The truth is that UV rays are there all year round, even if we don't see them. Even when it's cloudy, UV rays can get through the clouds and damage our skin. And if you're in front of a window or mobile phone all day, they affect you too. So make sunscreen your daily best friend, no matter what time of year!
Myth 3: ‘Only mature skin needs anti-ageing skincare’.
**The Reality:** It's a mistake to think that only mature skin needs to worry about ageing. Prevention is key, and starting a skincare routine early helps keep skin healthy and radiant over time. Ingredients such as antioxidants, vitamin C, and the use of sunscreen from an early age help protect skin from the effects of ageing and environmental damage. You don't have to wait until you notice the first wrinkles to take care of your skin; start early and your skin will thank you for it in the future!
Myth 4: ‘The more you exfoliate, the better’.
**The Reality:** Exfoliation is great for reviving skin, but too much can cause more problems than good. If you exfoliate too much, you can irritate the skin and make it more sensitive. The general recommendation is to exfoliate once or twice a week, but every skin is different. If you notice redness or irritation, take it down a notch! Gentle, consistent exfoliation is what your skin appreciates most.
Myth 5: ‘Pores can open and close.’
**The Reality:** Although you sometimes hear things like ‘steam your pores open’, pores don't have muscles and can't ‘open’ or ‘close’. What you can do is keep them clean and reduce their appearance with good cleansing and products that help balance the skin's oil.
Myth 6: ‘Skincare is only for women’.
**The Reality:** Not at all! Taking care of your skin is something anyone can do. Men's skin has its own particularities, but it also needs cleansing, moisturising and protection. More and more men are getting on board with skincare, and that's something to celebrate.
Myth 7: ‘If you don't see quick results, the product is useless.’
**The Reality:** This is where patience comes in, and it's key in skincare. Visible changes usually take a few weeks. We often switch products too quickly because we want to see results now, but the skin needs time to adapt and respond to the ingredients. Give new products a chance for at least four weeks before deciding whether they work or not.
In the end, it's all about understanding your skin
Debunking these myths is the first step to caring for your skin realistically and effectively. Remember, skincare is personal, and what works for others may not be ideal for you. Listen to your skin, look for products that make you feel good, and if you have big doubts, consult a dermatologist! In the end, the important thing is that you enjoy the process and see skincare as a time to devote to yourself.