With thousands of skincare tips circulating on social media, it can be difficult to know what information you can actually trust.
One person says you should never moisturize oily skin. Another says you need to exfoliate every day. Someone else swears that toothpaste will clear a pimple overnight.
So…what's actually true?
Let's clear up some common skincare myths and separate skincare facts from skincare fiction.
Myth #1: Oily Skin Doesn't Need Moisturizer
FALSE.
Having oily skin doesn't mean your skin doesn't need hydration.
In fact, overly drying the skin can contribute to irritation and may make managing oiliness and acne more difficult. Dermatologists recommend choosing a moisturizer appropriate for your skin type, and people with acne-prone skin can look for products labeled oil-free, non-comedogenic, or "won't clog pores."
The takeaway: Oily skin can still be dehydrated.
Myth #2: You Need to Scrub Your Skin to Get Rid of Acne
FALSE.
Scrubbing harder doesn't mean you'll get clearer skin faster.
Aggressive scrubbing can irritate acne-prone skin and potentially make breakouts worse. Gentle cleansing is generally a better approach.
Your skin doesn't need to be punished into behaving.
Myth #3: Sunscreen Is Only Necessary in Summer
FALSE.
UV exposure happens throughout the year, not just on hot, sunny days.
Daily sun protection is an important part of maintaining healthy skin and reducing UV-related skin damage. The AAD recommends broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Summer may be over, but your SPF routine shouldn't be.
Myth #4: If a Product Burns, It's Working
FALSE.
A tingling sensation isn't automatically proof that a skincare product is effective.
Burning, stinging, redness, or significant irritation can be signs that your skin isn't tolerating a product well.
When it comes to skincare, more irritation does not equal better results.
If a product consistently causes discomfort, it's worth reconsidering how you're using it—or whether it's appropriate for your skin at all.
Myth #5: Natural Products Are Always Better for Your Skin
FALSE.
"Natural" doesn't automatically mean gentle, safe, or appropriate for every skin type.
Some naturally derived ingredients can cause irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive skin. The AAD specifically notes that "natural" does not mean hypoallergenic.
Instead of choosing products based solely on whether they're labeled natural, look at the ingredients, formulation, and what your individual skin actually needs.
Myth #6: You Should Never Moisturize Acne-Prone Skin
FALSE.
This is one of the most common acne misconceptions.
Some acne treatments can dry and irritate the skin. Using an appropriate moisturizer can help reduce dryness and improve your skin's ability to tolerate certain acne treatments.
The key is choosing the right moisturizer for acne-prone skin—not skipping moisturizer altogether.
Myth #7: Popping a Pimple Makes It Go Away Faster
FALSE.
We know. It's tempting.
But squeezing or popping a breakout can irritate the surrounding skin and potentially push its contents deeper into the skin. It can also increase the risk of lingering marks or scarring.
Your best bet? Hands off and proper treatment.
Myth #8: More Skincare Products = Better Skin
FALSE.
Your bathroom counter doesn't need to look like a skincare aisle.
A complicated routine isn't automatically a better routine. Using too many products or too many active ingredients at once can irritate your skin and make it harder to determine what's actually helping.
A thoughtful routine with the right products used consistently can be much more beneficial than constantly jumping from product to product.
Myth #9: You Can Change Your Skin Overnight
FALSE.
Good skincare takes time.
Whether you're treating acne, addressing uneven pigmentation, improving hydration, or simply trying to maintain healthy skin, consistency matters.
Give your products time to work, follow your routine consistently, and resist the urge to completely overhaul your skincare every time you see a new trend online.
The Bottom Line
Your skin deserves more than viral hacks and one-size-fits-all advice.
The best skincare routine is one that takes into account your skin type, concerns, lifestyle, and goals.
When you're unsure about what your skin actually needs, getting professional guidance can help you avoid wasting money on products that aren't right for you—and avoid the trial-and-error cycle that can leave your skin irritated.
Don't believe everything you see on TikTok. 😉
Your skin deserves facts, not fads.