Breaking Down Beauty Myths: What Actually Works and What Doesn’t
From age-old beauty rituals passed down through generations to viral trends that take over your social media feeds, how do you know what actually works and what’s just hype? Let’s break down some of the most common beauty myths and separate fact from fiction.
Myth #1: Expensive Products Are Always Better
We’ve all been there—standing in a department store, tempted by the allure of high-end beauty products promising flawless skin. It’s easy to assume that the higher the price, the better the product. However, this isn’t always the case. While luxury brands often invest in premium ingredients and elegant packaging, plenty of affordable options deliver comparable results. The key is understanding your skin type and needs, not just the brand name.
What Works: Look for products with proven ingredients like hyaluronic acid, retinol, and vitamin C. These ingredients have been thoroughly researched and are found in products across all price points.
Myth #2: Natural Ingredients Are Always Safer
The rise of clean beauty has brought natural ingredients to the forefront. But just because something is natural doesn’t mean it’s automatically better or safer for your skin. Poison ivy is natural, but you wouldn’t want it in your skincare routine. Similarly, while natural, essential oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
What Works: Natural products can be wonderful but aren’t inherently safer than synthetic ones. Pay attention to your skin’s reactions and patch-test new products. Synthetic ingredients are often designed for stability and efficacy, sometimes making them a better choice for certain skin types.
Myth #3: You Should Never Use Oil on Oily Skin
This myth has been circulating for years, leaving those with oily skin to believe they must avoid oils at all costs. In reality, the right oils can actually help balance oily skin. The idea is that when you strip your skin of its natural oils, it may overcompensate by producing even more oil. Using a lightweight, non-comedogenic oil can help regulate this production and keep your skin hydrated without clogging pores.
What Works: Oils like jojoba, grapeseed, and rosehip are great for oily skin because they mimic the skin’s natural sebum and won’t leave a greasy residue.
Myth #4: Sunscreen Is Only Necessary Outdoors
Sunscreen is often associated with sunny days but should be essential in your skincare routine. The sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, causing damage even on the gloomiest days. Moreover, UVA rays, which contribute to premature ageing, are present all year long.
What Works: Make sunscreen a daily habit, regardless. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and hands.
Myth #5: Pores Can Open and Close
This is one of the most enduring beauty myths. Despite what you may have heard, pores don’t open and close like doors. Pores are simply the openings of hair follicles, and their size is largely determined by genetics. While you can’t physically change the size of your pores, you can minimise their appearance by keeping them clean and unclogged.
What Works: Regular exfoliation with salicylic acid can help to keep pores clear, while products with niacinamide can help reduce the appearance of enlarged pores.
Myth #6: Anti-Aging Products Are Only for Older Skin
Many people believe they only need to start using anti-ageing products once they see the first signs of wrinkles. However, preventative care is key to ageing gracefully. Starting an anti-ageing routine in your 20s or 30s can help delay the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving you a head start on maintaining youthful skin.
What Works: Incorporate ingredients like retinoids and antioxidants into your routine early on to protect your skin from environmental damage and stimulate collagen production.
Myth #7: Drinking Water Will Give You Perfect Skin
Hydration is essential for overall health, but drinking copious amounts of water will magically clear your skin in a stretch. While staying hydrated can improve the look and feel of your skin, it won’t address underlying issues like acne, hyperpigmentation, or ageing.
What Works: Combine proper hydration with a well-rounded skincare routine that addresses your specific concerns. Products with targeted ingredients will do more for your skin than water alone.
