In the world of skincare, myths and misconceptions abound, often leading people to make choices that may not benefit their skin—or worse, harm it. With so much information floating around, it’s easy to get confused about what’s fact and what’s fiction. Dr Tom Goyer, a skincare expert in Sydney, breaks down some of the most common skincare myths and sets the record straight so you can make informed decisions for healthier, happier skin.
Myth 1: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturiser
One of the most persistent myths is that people with oily skin should skip moisturiser to avoid making their skin greasier. In reality, skipping moisturiser can cause your skin to overcompensate by producing even more oil.
- The Truth: All skin types need hydration to maintain a healthy barrier. Opt for lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturisers if you have oily or acne-prone skin.
Tip: Look for products labeled “non-comedogenic” to ensure they won’t clog your pores.
Myth 2: You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Many people believe that if the sun isn’t shining brightly, sunscreen is unnecessary. However, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, making sun protection crucial year-round.
- The Truth: UV rays, particularly UVA rays, contribute to premature aging and skin cancer, even on overcast days.
Tip: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, rain or shine.
Myth 3: Expensive Products Are Always Better
Price tags often create the illusion that higher-cost products are inherently more effective. While some luxury products contain high-quality ingredients, many affordable options work just as well.
- The Truth: What matters most is the formulation and whether the product is suited to your skin type and concerns.
Tip: Focus on key ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, or niacinamide rather than the brand name or price.
Myth 4: Natural Ingredients Are Always Safer
The idea that “natural” automatically means “safe” is misleading. Some natural ingredients, like essential oils or citrus extracts, can irritate sensitive skin, while lab-created ingredients are often carefully formulated for safety and efficacy.
- The Truth: The source of an ingredient (natural or synthetic) doesn’t determine its safety—its chemical composition and how it interacts with your skin do.
Tip: Always patch test new products, even if they’re labeled as “natural.”
Myth 5: You Can Shrink Your Pores
Pores are a natural part of your skin’s structure, and their size is largely determined by genetics. While some products and treatments can minimize their appearance, they can’t physically shrink them.
- The Truth: Regular exfoliation, proper cleansing, and products like salicylic acid can help keep pores clear, making them appear smaller.
Tip: Use pore-refining masks, such as those with clay or charcoal, to temporarily improve the appearance of your pores.
Myth 6: Drinking More Water Will Hydrate Your Skin
While staying hydrated is essential for overall health, drinking water alone won’t magically transform dry skin. Skin hydration is influenced by your skincare routine and the products you use.
- The Truth: Applying hydrating products like hyaluronic acid or glycerin directly to the skin is more effective at improving skin hydration than simply drinking water.
Tip: Combine proper hydration with a good moisturizer to lock in moisture and strengthen your skin barrier.
Myth 7: You Only Need to Wear Sunscreen at the Beach
Sunscreen is often associated with outdoor activities like beach days or hiking, but UV exposure happens anytime you’re outdoors—or even indoors near windows.
- The Truth: Daily sunscreen use is essential for preventing sun damage, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
Tip: Choose a lightweight sunscreen you enjoy wearing daily, so it becomes a consistent part of your routine.
Myth 8: Anti-Aging Skincare Is Only for Older People
Many believe that anti-aging products are unnecessary until wrinkles appear. However, prevention is the best strategy when it comes to maintaining youthful skin.
- The Truth: Starting an anti-aging routine in your mid-20s or early 30s can help delay the visible signs of aging.
Tip: Incorporate sunscreen, antioxidants, and retinoids into your routine early on to protect and preserve your skin.
Myth 9: Scrubbing Harder Leads to Clearer Skin
It’s tempting to think that the harder you scrub, the cleaner your skin will be. However, over-exfoliating or scrubbing too vigorously can damage your skin barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and sensitivity.
- The Truth: Gentle cleansing and exfoliation are more effective and less damaging in the long run.
Tip: Use chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs for a gentler approach to removing dead skin cells.
Myth 10: Skincare Results Should Be Immediate
Many people abandon products if they don’t see instant results, but skincare takes time. Most products require consistent use over weeks or months to show noticeable improvements.
- The Truth: Patience is key when trying new products, especially for anti-aging or acne treatments.
Tip: Give a product at least 4-6 weeks to determine its effectiveness, unless it causes irritation or an allergic reaction.
Skincare myths can lead to misguided choices that hinder your skin’s progress. By separating fact from fiction, you can build a skincare routine that works for your specific needs and helps you achieve your goals. Remember, every skin type is unique, so what works for someone else may not work for you. For personalized advice and guidance, Dr Tom Goyer is here to help. For more expert insights, visit Dr Tom Goyer’s blog.