Truths and false myths about skincare

Skincare has become a daily discussion topic, yet it is often shrouded in doubts and contradictions. Between homemade remedies and innovations, it's easy to get lost in the labyrinth of truths and myths that surround the beauty industry. Let's explore together everything there is to know about skincare: the truths and the myths to debunk.

Skincare Myths: separating fact from fiction 

To distinguish truths from falsehoods, it is first necessary to know and debunk the myths that have appeared and become entrenched over the years, which can cloud our understanding and negatively influence our choices when it comes to skin care. Here are 10 skincare myths to debunk.

1. For greater protection, one must use a higher SPF sunscreen 

A product with a very high sun protection factor does not guarantee total defense against the sun's rays. Indeed, although products with SPF 50 may offer a more robust barrier against UVB rays, it does not mean they are the best choice for every skin type or circumstance. 

The key to effective sun protection also lies in proper and regular application of the product: it is very important to apply the sunscreen generously and renew it frequently, especially after bathing or in case of sweating, to keep the skin adequately protected.

2. It is not necessary to cleanse the face if you do not use makeup 

A widespread misconception is that facial cleansing is only necessary to remove makeup. This belief leads to overlooking the importance of freeing the skin from daily impurities. Regardless of whether makeup is used or not, the facial skin is exposed to environmental pollutants and the production of sebum which can accumulate and clog the pores. This accumulation can not only dull the appearance of the skin, but also increase the risk of blemishes such as pimples and blackheads. A proper cleansing routine - either in the evening or morning - is therefore crucial to keep the skin clean and healthy.

3. Products with natural ingredients are safer than those with chemical ingredients

The belief that natural ingredients have greater beneficial effects for the skin is a widespread myth in the skincare world. The natural origin of an ingredient might suggest its gentleness and effectiveness, but this is not a rule without exceptions since some natural components can be irritating or allergenic for certain skin types, especially the more sensitive ones. 

Moreover, the safety and efficacy of a skincare product depend not only on its origin—natural or synthetic—but also on the quality of the formulation, the concentration of ingredients and the production process. It is advisable to evaluate each product based on its specific composition and your skin's needs, rather than solely on the "natural" label.

4. The more products you use, the better the results 

In reality, overloading the skin with an excessive variety of treatments can lead to irritation, increased sensitivity and even compromise the skin barrier. For example, active ingredients like retinoids, exfoliating acids and vitamin C can be extremely beneficial, but when used excessively or in improper combinations, they can cause more harm than good. 

A minimal and targeted skincare routine, focusing on products suitable for your skin type and specific needs, is often much more effective because it gives the skin time to adapt and respond to the chosen treatments.

5. Those with oily skin should not use moisturizers 

It is a common belief that oily skin needs little hydration, a notion that often leads to neglecting this crucial step in the skincare routine. However, even this skin type, despite its tendency to produce excess sebum, needs adequate hydration to support the function of the skin barrier. 

Using a lightweight, oil-free or non-comedogenic moisturizing cream can help hydrate the skin without weighing it down or clogging the pores. 

This type of product, by helping to regulate sebum production, improves the overall appearance of the skin and prevents common issues like dehydration, which paradoxically can induce greater sebum production as a compensatory mechanism.

6. Are more expensive products always better than cheaper ones? 

The belief that all expensive skincare products offer better results than cheaper ones is a myth to debunk. Indeed, the market offers a wide range of effective and accessible solutions because quality ingredients and well-established formulas can also be found in products from other price ranges.

The real difference lies in premium ingredients, innovative formulas and scientific research expressed in some high-end cosmetics. While it's true that choosing quality skincare should not be based solely on price, it's also true that the use of rare ingredients, advanced production processes and studies for the safety and efficacy of products tend to significantly increase the cost of producing cosmetics. 

The key to successful skincare, therefore, lies in choosing products that offer the best balance of quality, efficacy and safety with formulations suitable for your skin type and specific needs.

7. Anti-aging products can completely eliminate wrinkles 

The belief that anti-aging products can completely erase wrinkles is a widespread myth, but false. There is no definitive solution that can completely reverse the effects of time on the skin. However, many anti-aging products and treatments can significantly help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture. These cosmetics primarily contain ingredients like retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA) and peptides that can stimulate collagen production and accelerate cellular renewal, making the skin smoother and reducing the visibility of fine lines.

To achieve younger-looking skin, it is important to choose products suitable for your skin type and integrate them into a consistent and long-term care routine.

8. Poor hygiene causes pimples 

While keeping the skin clean is important to prevent the buildup of sebum and bacteria, pimples are the result of a complex interaction of factors that go beyond simple hygiene. Hormones, genetic predisposition and specific bacterial strains play a crucial role in the development of pimples and acne.

Moreover, too frequent or too aggressive washing can even worsen the problem by irritating the skin and altering its natural balance. It is therefore important to adopt a balanced cleansing routine, using gentle products specific for your skin type and integrate any targeted acne treatments under the guidance of a dermatologist.

9. Scrubbing removes tanning 

Using a scrub in the summer does not "remove" tanning because exfoliation only removes the superficial layer of dead cells, helping to reveal a more even and radiant complexion. Tanning, which develops in the deeper cells of the epidermis, is not affected by the action of a gentle scrub. However, it's important not to over-exfoliate to avoid irritation and keep the skin healthy and protected.

10. You need to change products often because the skin gets used to them 

A common idea in the skincare world is that it is necessary to frequently change products because over time the skin gets used to their action, making them less effective. In reality, many active ingredients, such as antioxidants, retinoids and exfoliating acids, offer cumulative benefits over time and their consistent application can lead to sustained improvements in skin health and appearance.

This does not mean that one should never change their skincare routine because skin needs can vary with changes in seasons, environmental conditions, age or health status. However, the decision to change products should be based on real changes in skin needs rather than the perception that the skin may "get used" to the products in use.

The fundamental truths of Skincare 

Beyond the myths passed down in the industry, there are universal truths that form the foundation of every effective skincare routine. These truths are the result of in-depth research and scientific consensus, providing reliable guidance for anyone wishing to improve the health and appearance of their skin.

Here are 4 undeniable truths about skincare.

1. Hydration is a fundamental step for all skin types 

A fundamental principle in skincare is the importance of hydration. Keeping the skin adequately hydrated is crucial for preserving its health, elasticity and radiance. This applies to all skin types, including oily skin, which may seem less prone to dryness but actually benefits greatly from the use of moisturizers (provided they are lightweight and non-comedogenic). These products help balance sebum production, prevent dehydration and promote a healthy and radiant appearance. 

Hydration not only helps improve the external appearance of the skin but also supports its vital functions, strengthening the skin barrier against external aggressions and pollution.

2. Sun protection is necessary even in winter and bad weather

One of the most incontrovertible truths in the field of skincare is the importance of sun protection: even on cloudy days or during the winter season, UVA rays can penetrate through clouds and window glass, making sunscreen an indispensable step in the skincare routine.

Regardless of the weather conditions or the perceived intensity of the sun's rays, the daily application of sunscreen is essential to protect the skin from cumulative damage caused by UVA and UVB rays, such as sunburn, premature aging of the skin, hyperpigmentation and, in more severe cases, an increased risk of developing skin cancers.

Opting for a product with at least SPF 30 and reapplying it every two hours in case of direct sun exposure is a recommended practice to keep the skin protected and healthy in the long term.

3. The quality of the products used is more important than the quantity 

An effective skincare routine is not measured by the number of steps or the variety of products used, but by the choice of specific treatments that meet the real needs of your skin.

The consistent use of a targeted selection of products can make a significant difference in the appearance and health of the skin, making the use of an extensive arsenal of treatments superfluous. Indeed, many current trends promote the use of more simplified skincare, such as skinimalism, thanks also to the presence of hybrid cosmetics that offer multiple functions at once, thus reducing the number of applications on the skin.

Moreover, a simplified routine reduces the risk of irritation, allowing the skin to maintain its natural balance and absorb nutrients and active ingredients more effectively.

4. Lifestyle helps improve skin health

Skin care goes well beyond the application of topical products; lifestyle also plays a crucial role in determining the health and appearance of the skin. Among the factors that can have a direct and positive impact on the skin are: 

• A diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals supports cell regeneration and fights inflammation, while adequate hydration helps maintain the skin's elasticity and radiance. 
• Sleep allows the skin to repair and regenerate, reducing signs of fatigue and aging. 
• Physical exercise, by increasing blood flow, nourishes skin cells and promotes detoxification. Moreover, stress management practices such as meditation and spending time outdoors can significantly improve the quality of the skin, reducing the incidence of problems like acne and eczema.

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is therefore a fundamental step for anyone who wants radiant and healthy skin.

The truth beyond skincare myths 

Skincare is not just about products and routines, but about a deep understanding of the specific needs of your skin. The invitation is to look beyond immediate promises and to build a personal care routine based on an informed and critical approach.

We must always remember that authentic beauty stems from health and well-being. Skincare, with its revealed truths and debunked myths, becomes not just an act of external care, but an expression of respect and love towards ourselves.