Myth #1
Coconut Oil is great for your face.
FALSE
Coconut oil has a super high comedogenic rating, which means that it can easily clog pores. Which also means that it could be a big problem for sensitive and blemish-prone skin.
BUT — It does make for a great body moisturizer! Especially on areas that are dry and not prone to breakouts (like knees, elbows and legs).
Myth #2
You’ll see results immediately!
FALSE
When it comes to skin, you’ve got to learn to be patient (ugh). Generally, it takes four to six weeks to see any real difference from a new product.
Pro tip: Consistency is key. Keep up with your routine and you’ll notice results sooner.
Myth #3
A great acne fighter? Alcohol.
FALSE
We’re talking about rubbing alcohol here, which is known to have antibacterial properties.
But while it may help kill off acne-causing bacteria, rubbing alcohol is never something you want to rub on your face. Ever. Using an ingredient like alcohol at its full concentration can do more harm than good. It can make skin feel overly dry, tight and even flaky.
Myth #4
Natural ingredients are better.
FALSE
Just because it grows in nature doesn’t mean it won’t irritate your skin. Some natural ingredients can actually be harsh and abrasive.
Do your research — safe synthetic ingredients that mimic natural ones can provide lots of skin benefits (with no irritation).
Myth #5
Using a new product can cause breakouts.
TRUE
Not always, but sometimes. The key thing to know about is purging vs. a bad reaction.
Whenever you use something new, your skin can react in different ways (especially when switching from conventional formulas to more potent or clean ones). If the product is working to clear skin, stuff that’s been hiding deep down — like dead cells, oil and debris — can pop up in the form of a breakout. This is called purging, and it only means that your skin might look a bit worse before it gets better.
If your skin becomes red, splotchy, and itchy after using a new product, that’s a different story. This is likely irritation or a reaction, and it’s probably best to stop use altogether.
Myth #6
Popping a pimple gets rid of it faster.
FALSE
Popping a pimple can actually spread bacteria, which can worsen acne, cause an infection and even lead to scarring.
One exception: An extraction performed by a dermatologist in a sterile environment.
Otherwise, avoid picking your pimples — we know, it’s so hard! But trust us on this one. Keep your hands off!
Myth #7
No need to use sunscreen if you’ve got a base tan or a darker skin tone.
FALSE
Dark skin naturally has more melanin, which does offer a bit more protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
BUT! No one is immune to sunburns or skin cancer. Translation: Everyone needs to wear sunscreen every day of the year, whether rain or shine — so find one that you enjoy using.
Myth #8
Lemon juice helps you glow
FALSE
Lemon alters the pH of your skin, which can destroy the protective outer barrier. This can make skin easily inflamed, irritated and even lead to scarring.
Keep your lemons in your kitchen.
Myth #9
If it stings, its working.
FALSE
Some tingling is okay, especially with exfoliating acids or fruit enzymes (though products don’t have to feel like anything in order to be effective).
But major burning or stinging is probably a sign that something is wrong!
Myth #10
Toothpaste is the best DIY spot treatment.
FALSE
Because of its composition, toothpaste can irritate and dry out the skin, which might actually cause more acne. Besides, it’s made for your teeth — not your face!
Instead, try a spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
Myth #11
Aspirin is an effective topical treatment.
FALSE
This is another case of: If it's not meant for your face, don’t put it there.
Unless your dermatologist advises otherwise, leave your aspirin in the medicine cabinet.
Myth #12
You should spend more for better skincare
FALSE
Expensive doesn’t always equal better quality, and rare ingredients aren’t necessarily more effective.
Often, there isn’t scientific evidence that these ingredients are, in fact, worth it. In skincare, a higher price tag really doesn’t guarantee better quality.
Myth #13
OILY SKIN? STOP MOISTURIZING.
FALSE
This is a common misconception, but when you don’t moisturize oily skin (or any skin type), it compensates by producing even more oil in a vicious cycle that can lead to more breakouts.
All skin types need to stay moisturized in order to maintain a strong barrier, which is also what helps fend off acne-causing bacteria in the first place.
If you have oily skin, find a moisturizer formulated specifically for your skin type.
Myth #14
HOT WATER OPENS UP PORES FOR A BETTER CLEAN.
FALSE
First of all, pores can’t open and close. Second of all, hot water can potentially strip your skin of essential oils.
Your best bet: Always wash your face with lukewarm — not hot — water. If your skin is red after rinsing, the water is probably too hot.
Myth #15
The harder you scrub, the better
FALSE
Exfoliating the skin too hard can compromise skin barrier function, make it dehydrated and even damage capillaries. And yes… it can ultimately make acne worse.
When it comes to scrubbing, be gentle and only do it once or twice a week. Better yet, use a chemical exfoliant instead.
