Debunking 5 Common Skin Care Myths

Navigating the world of skincare can sometimes feel like walking through a maze of myths and misunderstandings. Whether it's advice from well-meaning friends or bombardment from the latest trends on our feeds, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction.

We're here to shed some light on a few of the top myths that keep coming up in the skincare conversation. It's finally time to bid farewell to those misconceptions holding you back and say hello to glowing, healthy skin, and a skincare routine that’s perfect for you.

Here are five of the most common skincare myths, debunked.

Myth #1: You Can Shrink Your Pores

The Truth: Unfortunately, there’s no “magic wand” to shrink the size of your pores. Pores are tiny openings in the skin that allow oils and sweat to be released. When dirt, oil, or makeup accumulate within these openings, they can become more visible. Your pore size, like your eye and hair color, are genetically determined.

Here's the good news: while you can't physically shrink your pores, there are numerous ways to make them appear smaller. Try deep, or double cleansing, practicing your skincare routine on a daily basis, and selecting products that won’t clog your pores in the first place.

Myth #2: You Only Need Sunscreen While Outdoors, and Only on Sunny Days

The Truth: Even when you're spending your day indoors, or the skies seem overcast, UV rays don’t simply vanish. It's a common misconception that the sun’s rays only pose a threat during the scorching days of summer, but in reality, they maintain their presence all year round. UV rays are sneaky: they have the  ability to penetrate clouds and even glass, meaning you're not immune indoors either. 

It’s important to understand the types of UV rays that can affect your skin. UVA rays are the culprits behind premature aging, leading to pesky wrinkles. UVB rays may lead to painful sunburn. Both UVA and UVB rays may also lead to skin cancer. Applying sunscreen shouldn’t just  be reserved for the days when you’re heading to the beach, but should be a daily habit, regardless of the weather forecast.

Myth #3: You Should Wash Your Face With Hot Water

The Truth: There are several reasons why using hot water may  cause major issues for your skin. Constantly washing your face with hot water may  remove the skin’s natural and necessary oils, potentially leading to dryness and irritation. This concern isn’t limited to those with dry or sensitive skin, either. Even those with oily skin can suffer from this habit.

A better option is to switch to washing with lukewarm water. Lukewarm water is more gentle on the skin, and will not excessively remove natural oils, while still removing dirt and impurities. In addition to limiting hot water usage while washing your face, it's also just as important to minimize your skin's exposure to hot water while bathing or showering as well. Hot baths and showers are not beneficial anyway. They stimulate and dry out your skin. Lukewarm is healthier.

Myth #4: You Don’t Need to Moisturize if You Have Oily Skin

The Truth: Oily skin requires hydration, much like any other skin type. When oily skin lacks moisture, it prompts the skin to produce more oil as a protective measure, leading to a cycle of overproduction and potential breakouts. Oily skin often results from an imbalance in sebum production. Moisturizers, especially those designed  for oily skin, help maintain a healthy balance without triggering excess oil production.

While not all moisturizers are appropriate for oily skin types, there are many options designed for oily skin, like our Clear Skin Cream. Moisturizers such as this hydrate without clogging pores, and ensure the skin receives the necessary moisture without exacerbating oiliness. Incorporating a lightweight moisturizer into your routine allows you to reap these rewards without worrying about adding unwanted shine as well. Balance is the key!

Myth #5: You Should Exfoliate Daily For Youthful-Looking Skin

The Truth: Over exfoliating can wreak havoc on your skin's protective barrier, resulting in irritation, redness, and more sensitive skin. Rather than exfoliating every day, it's best to limit it to 2-3 times per week, adjusting based on your skin type and the type of exfoliating product you're using.

It’s also important to be gentle during the exfoliation process, never scrubbing too hard and always opting for products specifically tailored to your skin type. Gently polish the skin with a non-abrasive scrub like our Algae Deep Scrub. Or, for a natural alternative to a chemical peel, try our Aroma Peel. By taking a more cautious approach to exfoliation, it allows you to effectively slough away dead skin cells without compromising your skin's health.