Know which skincare rules to follow and which ones to flout
Turns out, what you don’t know can hurt you—or your complexion. Learn which skincare myths no longer apply, and which rules you should follow to keep your face and body looking their best.
- The More Showers, the Better – False
Cleanliness may be next to godliness, but it can take a toll on your skin. Washing frequently with either too-hot or too-cold water can rob your skin of vital moisture, leaving it looking dry, irritated or rashy. Aim to bathe with water that’s tepid or as close to lukewarm as you can stand, and try to get away with cleanses that last ten minutes or less.
- Body Skin Doesn’t Need TLC - False
You may have heard that the skin on your body is different than the skin on your face—that’s true. But that doesn’t mean that you can get away with skipping lotion and exfoliation, or using products that are harsh or abrasive. Moisturize your body regularly (within moments of bathing is the best time) and exfoliate two or three times a week to boost turnover and ensure surface creams and serums are penetrating.
- Swapping Formulas Is Ok - False
We repeat: the skin on your body is different than the skin on your face. Don’t use face products on your body or body care items on your face—the labels aren’t just decorative. But, if you know that an ingredient (like hyaluronic acid) works well on your face, look for its equivalent in a formula designed for your body.
To scrub or not to scrub—that is the question. Everyone should exfoliate, in moderation. If you’ve heard that sensitive skin shouldn’t be exfoliated, think again. Sloughing off dry, dead skin is just as important for delicate complexions: look for gentle, non-abrasive sugar scrubs for physical smoothing, or chemical versions containing retinol alternatives like bakuchiol to keep your skin silky and blotch-free.
- Oily Complexions Can Skip Moisturizer – False
Even if your skin’s oily, you should still moisturize to replenish vital nutrients and maintain a protective lipid barrier. When you skip moisturizer, your skin can dry out, and then produce more oil to counteract dryness. Look for water-based gel formulas and non-comedogenic moisturizers designed to keep pores clog-free. Avoid products with cocoa butter or mineral oil.
- Higher SPF Sunscreens = Better - False
In many situations, higher SPF sunscreens may not provide any added benefits compared to lower SPF formulas, so don’t waste your money. After all, sunscreen with an SPF of 30+ will block out 97% of UVB radiation. If you're going to be outside for more than three hours, especially during hours of peak sun exposure (10am to 2pm), you may want to invest in a higher SPF.
- Drinking Water Hydrates Your Skin - False
Your skin doesn’t absorb water automatically when you drink it—it hydrates your cells when it enters the bloodstream and is filtered by the kidneys. The best way to keep your skin hydrated? Use a humidifier (or avoid dry air), reach for a gentle cleanser, and moisturize daily with ingredients that help trap moisture into your skin, like hyaluronic acid and glycerin.
- Eye Creams Are Worth It - True
The skin around the eyes requires special care and products to avoid looking prematurely aged. Under-eye skin is thinner and more delicate than the rest of your face, and it lacks oil glands so it can dry out faster. Troubled by dark circles or puffiness due to fatigue? Choose a caffeinated eye cream to control inflammation. Look for creams made with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol to eliminate fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles that can age your appearance.
