When it comes to skincare, there’s no shortage of advice. From social media trends to well-meaning friends, it seems everyone has a “magic tip” or “secret remedy.” But the truth is, not all skincare advice is created equal. As beauty professionals, we often meet clients who are confused, frustrated, or disappointed because they’ve been following common myths that do more harm than good.
Let’s clear up some of the most common skincare misconceptions, so you can make confident, informed decisions about your skin.
1. “If it burns, it means it’s working” – False!
This is one of the most dangerous myths out there. A tingling or burning sensation isn’t always a sign of effectiveness. In fact, it can be your skin’s way of telling you something is wrong.
What’s really happening?
Burning can indicate irritation, a compromised skin barrier, or even a reaction to ingredients that don’t suit your skin type. Especially with active ingredients like acids (e.g., AHAs, BHAs), overuse can lead to sensitivity, dryness, and long-term damage.
Professional tip: Effective skincare should be gentle yet consistent. Listen to your skin – if it’s uncomfortable, it’s not helping.
2. “Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer” – A big no!
Many people with oily or acne-prone skin skip moisturizers, thinking it will reduce shine or breakouts. This often leads to the opposite effect.
Why this is a myth:
When your skin is dehydrated, it may produce even more oil to compensate, making you look oilier and potentially clogging pores.
Professional tip: Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizer (like gel-based or water-based formulas) to keep your skin hydrated and balanced without feeling greasy.
3. “Natural is always better” – Not necessarily.
We love natural ingredients – when they’re used wisely and with proper formulation. But just because something is “natural” doesn’t mean it’s safe or effective for your skin.
Examples: Lemon juice can severely irritate the skin and increase sun sensitivity. Coconut oil may clog pores in acne-prone skin. Baking soda? Too alkaline and damaging for your skin’s natural pH.
Professional tip: Look for products that combine science and nature. It’s not about “natural” vs. “chemical” – it’s about what works, and what’s safe.
4. “You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days or if you’re indoors” – Absolutely false.
UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows. Even if you’re indoors, your skin is still exposed to UVA rays (the aging rays), especially if you sit near windows or use devices with blue light.
Why this matters: Daily sunscreen protects against premature aging, pigmentation, and even skin cancer – no matter the weather.
Professional tip: Make SPF 30 or higher a part of your morning routine, every single day. Your future skin will thank you.
5. “You can shrink your pores” – Misleading.
Pore size is mostly determined by genetics and skin type. While you can minimize their appearance, you can’t permanently shrink them.
What really works: Regular exfoliation (using safe methods), keeping your skin clean, and using ingredients like niacinamide or salicylic acid can help make pores look tighter and less visible also micro-needling treatment will help.
Professional tip: Focus on clarity and tone – healthy skin naturally looks smoother and more refined.
6. “Drinking water alone will clear your skin” – Only part of the puzzle.
Hydration is essential for your overall health, including skin. But simply drinking gallons of water won’t magically erase acne, scars, or texture.
Here’s the truth: Skin concerns are often caused by a mix of factors – hormones, skincare habits, diet, stress, and more. Water helps, but it’s not a cure-all.
Professional tip: Pair good hydration with proper skincare, a balanced lifestyle, and professional treatments when necessary.
Trust Your Skin, Not the Hype
With so much noise online, it’s easy to fall into the trap of skincare trends or well-intentioned advice. But your skin is unique – and it deserves personalized, evidence-based care.
When in doubt, talk to a qualified skincare professional who understands the science behind the beauty. At Topaz House of Beauty Spa & Salon, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge, not fear or fads.
Because true beauty isn’t about following every trend – it’s about knowing what works for you
