The skincare world is full of myths that have the potential to make you follow incorrect skincare practices. Your skin is a living organ and you should take care of it with utmost care!

In this blog, we will tell you about the #5 common skincare myths that you should stop believing in.

We want you to really pay attention to these misconceptions so you can make informed decisions about your skin’s health. Right products and scientifically backed practices can go a long way in helping you reach your skincare goals.

Let’s examine each of these myths individually and expose the truth that lies beneath them. After reading this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to take care of your skin and get the outcomes you want. It’s time to start your journey to the healthiest skin you’ve ever had by sorting skincare facts from fantasy.

#1- Myth: Spray Tanning Can Prevent Sunburns

Spray tanning is a popular way to get a tanned look without exposing your skin to the sun. It’s important to note that spray tanning does not protect your skin against sunburns. UV radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells which could cause inflammation, redness, sunburns, or blisters.

Spray tanning involves the use of DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) a chemical solution that reacts with amino acids on the topmost layer of your skin. This process results in temporary darkening of your skin’s complexion. The change in color may last for a few days before it gradually reverts back to its original color. Sunscreen ingredients that shield your skin from the harmful effects of sun damage are not used in the process of spray tanning.

Therefore, relying on spray tanning to give your skin sun protection is not right at all! If you want to protect your skin from sun damage, it’s better that you apply sunscreen regularly. Sunscreen forms a protective barrier on your skin, and blocks or reflects UV radiation. This prevents sunburns, and premature aging and reduces the risk of skin cancer.

#2 – Myth: You Don’t Need a Moisturizer if Your Skin Is Oily

People often believe that oily skin does not require any moisturizing. However, this is a misconception! Oily skin is characterized by excess sebum or oil production from sebaceous glands on the skin. This can lead to enlarged pores, acne, and a shiny appearance. Many people think that because their skin is already producing sufficient amounts of oil, using a moisturizer will make their skin even oilier, but that’s not true!

Moisturizers maintain the health of your skin, irrespective of your skin type! For this reason, even if you have oily skin, you still need to use a moisturizer. People with greasy skin could not drink enough water. When the skin is dehydrated, it can produce more oil! Moisturizers replenish and lock moisture into your skin.

Moisturizers also help strengthen your skin’s natural barrier function. The skin barrier is like a protective shield that protects your skin from environmental damage and maintains your skin’s health. These hydrating agents also help regulate sebum production, which subsequently prevents excess oil production.

Using a moisturizer that is appropriate for your skin type will also lower your chance of outbreaks! When choosing a moisturizer for oily skin types, choose formulations that are non-comedogenic, lightweight, and acne-prone. Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide are essential components to search for in moisturizers as they may help with oily skin types.

#3 – Myth: The More You Exfoliate Your Skin, The Better

Exfoliating your skin can renew your skin cells and over-exfoliation can damage your skin! Exfoliation can remove dead skin cells from your skin’s surface. Exfoliation unclogs pores, enhances your skin’s texture, and promotes a brighter skin tone.

The two primary types of exfoliation are chemical and physical exfoliation. Dead skin cells are scraped off with brushes or scrubs during physical exfoliation.

Chemical exfoliation is a skincare technique that involves the use of active chemicals such as BHAs and AHAs to buff away dead skin cells, pollutants, and skin debris. It’s important to understand that over-exfoliating can damage the natural protective layer of your skin, which can cause irritation, redness, and dryness. Excessive exfoliation can also strip your skin of its natural oils and disturb its pH balance! Using exfoliating scrubs three or four times a week is an excellent method of exfoliating your skin! Make sure the cleanser you use doesn’t leave microscopic tears on your skin.

#4 – Expensive Skincare Products Are Always Better

The belief that higher price equals higher quality leads to the perception that expensive skincare products are superior. But it’s a fallacy that needs to be dispelled that high-end skincare products are necessarily superior. It’s true that some expensive skincare brands can give you visible results with their potent, scientifically-backed formulations. On the other hand, there could be expensive skincare brands that use basic quality ingredients but they are priced way too high. It’s crucial to pay more attention to a product’s formulation, active components, and scientific backing than to its cost.

The cost of research and development (R&D) can contribute to the higher price of some skincare products. However, it’s important to note that not all expensive products have undergone extensive R&D Many affordable brands invest in research and innovation to develop effective formulations at a lower cost. It’s advisable to look for products that have scientific studies or clinical trials supporting their claims, regardless of their price range.

Expensive skincare products may offer luxurious packaging, pleasant textures, and a sensorial experience. While these aspects can enhance the skincare routine, they do not necessarily translate to better results. It’s essential to assess the value for money by considering the ingredients, formulation, and proven efficacy of a product rather than its aesthetic appeal or luxurious presentation.

 #5 – Myth: You Only Need Sunscreen During the Summer

One frequent myth is that sunscreen is only required in the summer. Throughout the year, use sunscreen to shield your skin from the sun’s damaging rays. UVA and UVB rays make up the ultraviolet (UV) energy that the sun emits. UVB rays are mostly responsible for sunburn, while UVA rays have the ability to penetrate deeply into the skin and induce premature aging. Extended periods of time spent in the sun without protection can cause sunburn, wrinkles, dark spots, and a higher chance of developing skin cancer.

UV rays can reach your skin even on gloomy or overcast days! This implies that your skin is still exposed to UV rays even on cloudy days. The skin is exposed to UV radiation even when going about normal activities like sitting next to a window or going for a walk outside. The cumulative effects of this exposure may cause long-term harm. As part of your regular skincare practice, using sunscreen helps shield the skin from these common exposures.

Skincare myths can lead us down the wrong path, preventing us from achieving our desired results. By debunking these skincare myths, we can make more informed decisions about our skincare routines.