The world of skincare is filled with myths that can lead people astray, wasting time, money, and effort on practices that don’t yield results—or worse, harm their skin.
Let’s take a closer look at five of the most common skincare myths, explain why they’re wrong, and uncover the truth so you can make informed choices for your skin.
1. Myth: Expensive Products Work Better
Truth: Price doesn’t guarantee quality or effectiveness in skincare products. High-end skincare brands often invest heavily in marketing and packaging, driving up costs without necessarily improving their formulations. Many drugstore or mid-priced products contain the same active ingredients as luxury brands.
For example, a $10 moisturizer with ceramides and hyaluronic acid can be just as effective as a $100 luxury cream. What matters most is the formulation and whether it suits your skin’s needs. Instead of focusing on price, prioritize reading ingredient lists, checking for clinical studies backing a product’s claims, and looking for reviews from trusted sources. An expensive price tag might buy you prestige, but it won’t always buy results.
2. Myth: Natural Ingredients Are Always Better
Truth: The word "natural" has become a buzzword in the beauty industry, but it doesn’t necessarily mean a product is safer or more effective. While ingredients like green tea, aloe vera, and shea butter have proven benefits, some natural ingredients can irritate the skin or even cause allergic reactions. For instance, essential oils like lavender or citrus can be highly irritating for sensitive skin types.
On the other hand, synthetic ingredients like peptides or niacinamide have been developed through rigorous testing to deliver targeted benefits safely. Some synthetic ingredients mimic compounds found in nature but are produced in a controlled environment to ensure consistency and efficacy. The key is to look for well-formulated products with proven ingredients, whether natural or synthetic, and avoid being swayed by marketing claims alone.
3. Myth: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer
Truth: Many people with oily skin think skipping moisturizer will help reduce oiliness, but the opposite is true. When your skin lacks hydration, it can produce even more sebum (oil) to compensate for the dryness, leading to a vicious cycle of excess shine and clogged pores.
Choosing the right moisturizer is essential. Look for lightweight, gel-based, or non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and niacinamide are particularly beneficial for hydrating oily skin without adding heaviness. Applying moisturizer after cleansing helps restore your skin’s natural balance, creating a healthier and more even complexion over time.
4. Myth: Sunscreen Is Only Necessary on Sunny Days
Truth: This is one of the most damaging myths in skincare. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are present every day, regardless of the weather. Even on cloudy or rainy days, up to 80% of UV rays penetrate the clouds. Additionally, UVA rays, which cause premature aging and skin cancer, can pass through glass windows, meaning you’re exposed even when indoors or driving.
Daily sunscreen application is non-negotiable. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Modern formulations make it easy to integrate sun protection into your routine without feeling greasy or heavy. Many sunscreens now double as moisturizers or primers, ensuring convenience without sacrificing effectiveness. Apply generously and reapply every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors.
5. Myth: More Skincare Steps Equal Better Results
Truth: The rise of multi-step skincare routines, often popularized by K-beauty trends, has led to the belief that more is always better. However, adding too many products to your routine can overwhelm your skin, causing irritation, redness, or breakouts. Some active ingredients, like retinol and vitamin C, may not work well together, further complicating your skincare efforts.
Instead of a lengthy routine, focus on a few high-quality products that address your specific concerns. A basic routine that includes a gentle cleanser, a moisturizer suited to your skin type, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen is sufficient for most people. From there, you can add targeted treatments like serums or exfoliants, but always introduce new products gradually to avoid overloading your skin.
Achieve Clear, Healthy Skin with Incellderm
At Incellderm, we simplify skincare by offering scientifically backed products with proven results. Our formulations use natural, skin-loving ingredients to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate your skin without the need for a complicated routine.
For hydration and anti-aging benefits, try our Active Cream EX, a luxurious moisturizer that locks in moisture while enhancing skin elasticity. Protect your skin daily with our Aqua Protection Sunscreen, which provides lightweight, broad-spectrum protection without leaving a white cast.
Visit Incellderm today to simplify your routine and reveal your skin’s natural radiance.
