7 Common Skincare Myths, Debunked

Navigating the world of skincare can sometimes feel like walking through a maze of myths and misunderstandings. Whether it's advice passed down from well-meaning friends or the latest trends flooding your social feed, it's not always easy to separate fact from fiction.

Many of these myths can prevent you from getting the healthy, radiant skin you deserve. That's why we're here to set the record straight. Below, we're debunking some of the most common skincare myths so you can make confident, informed choices for your skin.

Myth #1: You Can Shrink Your Pores

Pore size is genetic, meaning there's no magic serum or treatment that can physically shrink them. What you can do is minimize their appearance by keeping them clear and unclogged.

Practices like double cleansing or gently exfoliating may help keep pores looking smoother and less noticeable. Think of it as making the most of the skin you were born with, rather than trying to change something that can't be changed.

Myth #2: Sunscreen Is Only for Sunny Days

UV rays don't take a vacation when it's cloudy or when you're indoors. In fact, UVA rays can pass through glass, meaning your skin can still be affected even if you're sitting by a window at work. Daily sunscreen is one of the most important habits you can create to protect against premature aging, sunburn, and more serious concerns like skin cancer. Make SPF as routine as brushing your teeth; it's non-negotiable.

Myth #3: Hot Water Is Best for Cleansing

You may have heard that using hot water is beneficial when washing your face. Unfortunately, hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, leaving it feeling dry, tight, or vulnerable to irritation. It may also worsen conditions like Rosacea or Eczema.

Instead, opt for lukewarm water when cleansing your face. Lukewarm water is gentle enough to preserve your skin's moisture barrier while still washing away impurities.

Myth #4: Oily Skin Doesn't Need Moisturizer

If you have oily skin, you may be tempted to avoid using a moisturizer. However, skipping moisturizer when you have oily skin often backfires. When your skin feels dehydrated, it increases oil production to compensate, resulting in even more shine and breakouts.

Look for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores. For example, Source Vitál's Clear Skin Cream is formulated to provide oily or acne-prone skin with the hydration and balance it needs, without a heavy or greasy feeling on the skin.

Myth #5: Exfoliating Daily Is Necessary

More isn't always better, especially when it comes to exfoliating your skin. Over-exfoliating can damage your skin's protective barrier, leading to redness, sensitivity, and irritation. For most people, 2–3 times per week is the sweet spot.

Pair the right frequency with gentle products, such as our Algae Deep Scrub or Aroma Peel, for effective exfoliation that respects your skin's health.

Myth #6: Natural Skin Care isn't As Beneficial as Clinical Skin Care

Some believe that only harsh chemicals or clinical-strength formulas can deliver visible results. That's far from the case. Many natural ingredients—like algae, essential oils, and botanical extracts- are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish the skin deeply and effectively. 

Myth #7: More Products = Better Skin

It may be tempting to think that the TikTok viral 12-step routine will unlock perfect skin, but often, less is more. Overloading your skin with too many products can irritate or even cancel out their benefits.

Instead, focus on the essentials: a gentle cleanser, a targeted serum, a moisturizer, and sunscreen. Build from there only if your skin truly needs more. You can also look for multi-tasking products, like our Custom Facial Cocktail, to address multiple skincare concerns in one bottle. Think quality and consistency over quantity.

Good skincare doesn't have to be complicated. By letting go of myths and embracing evidence-based practices, you'll give your skin exactly what it needs to thrive.