10 Skincare Myths You Need to Stop Believing

In a world overflowing with skincare advice, it’s easy to fall for tips that sound convincing but aren’t rooted in facts. Unfortunately, these myths can derail your routine, waste your money, and sometimes even damage your skin. To help you cut through the noise, here are 10 common skincare myths that deserve to be left behind starting today.

1. You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days.

Even when the skies are gray, up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate through clouds. These rays are responsible for premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer.

Bottom line: Sunscreen is a daily essential, rain or shine.

2. Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer.

Skipping moisturizer can actually increase oil production because your skin tries to compensate for dehydration.

Use: A lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizer to keep skin balanced.

3. Natural Ingredients Are Always Better.

“Natural” doesn’t always mean safer or more effective. Poison ivy is natural—but you wouldn’t rub it on your face! Likewise, many synthetic ingredients are carefully formulated to be stable, effective, and gentle.

Focus on: Science-backed ingredients, not just buzzwords.

4. The Higher the SPF, the Better the Protection.

SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks around 99%. The difference is small, and higher SPFs can give a false sense of security.

What matters more: Reapplying every 2 hours and using enough product.

5. You Can Shrink Your Pores.

Pore size is largely genetic. While you can minimize their appearance with ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, you can’t change their actual size.

Goal: Cleaner, tighter-looking pores—not smaller ones.

6. Tingling Means a Product Is Working.

Tingling usually indicates irritation, not effectiveness. Some active ingredients may cause mild sensations, but burning or stinging is a warning sign.

If it hurts: Wash it off. Your skin barrier will thank you.

7. You Should Wash Your Face Multiple Times a Day.

Overwashing strips your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, or increased oil production.

Best practice: Once in the morning, once at night—plus after heavy sweating.

8. Expensive Products Are Always Better.

A higher price tag doesn’t guarantee better results. Many affordable brands offer powerful, dermatologist-approved formulas.

Key: Look at the ingredients, not the branding.

9. Makeup Causes Acne.

Makeup can contribute to breakouts, but only if it's comedogenic, not removed properly, or used with dirty brushes.

Solution: Choose non-comedogenic products and clean tools regularly.

10. Anti-Aging Skincare Is Only for Older People.

Preventative skincare is far more effective than trying to reverse signs of aging later. Starting in your 20s—with sunscreen, antioxidants, and hydration—builds long-term skin resilience.

Reminder: It's about prevention, not panic.

Final Thoughts

Skincare doesn’t need to be confusing. When you separate myths from facts and focus on what truly works, your routine becomes simpler and your results become far better. Remember: good skincare is consistent, informed, and tailored to your unique needs.