A good skincare regimen can yield remarkable results. But even the most dedicated skincare enthusiasts can make mistakes that affect their skin in a bad way. Using too much product, forgetting sunscreen (a cardinal sin in dermatology), or believing every trend on social media can lead to negative outcomes. In this post, we talk about the most common skincare misconceptions and what our dermatologist recommends we do instead.

1. Misconception: Exfoliation is crucial for eliminating dead skin cells

Yes, removing dead skin helps keep the skin fresh and smooth. But remember, the skin also protects our body, and too much exfoliating can weaken the skin’s barrier, leading to redness, irritation, and breakouts.

We Recommend: Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly, depending on your skin type.

Use mild chemical exfoliants such as AHAs or BHAs, and avoid excessive scrubbing. Also, make sure to balance exfoliation with hydration to make sure your skin barrier stays healthy and intact.

2. Misconception: Sunscreen is only needed on sunny days

This is probably one of the most common misconceptions, and its very easy to understand why. We get sunburn from direct sunlight, so when it’s hidden behind clouds, we’re good right? Wrong! Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean its not there. Especially when it comes to ultraviolet radiation. This radiation, which is actually the main cause of sun-derived skin damage, can easily pass through clouds and even windows. Just because it’s a cloudy day, or you’re inside your car or a building doesn’t mean you’re safe from UV.

In fact, concrete and sand (if you find yourself on the beach) reflects 25% of the radiation from the sun! So even if you’re in the shade, there’s a high change you are being exposed to UV.

We Recommend: Use a broad-spectrum suncreen (that is at least SPF 30) every day.

Regardless of the weather outside, put on sunscreen. This is the most effective anti-aging product for your skin.

3. Misconception: The more ingredients I use, the better my skin gets

Remember, the skin is a living breathing organ, and it can get overwhelmed. Using too many things at once can cause the skin to get irritated, dry out, or peel too quickly. And like we said earlier in this post: the skin is a protective barrier, and any irritation, drying or peeling weakens that barrier.

Also, some ingredients are not meant to be used together, and if combined can actually cause more harm than good.

We Recommend: Ask a dermatologist if those products are safe for your skin.

Seriously, when in doubt, ask. And, if a dermatologist isn’t nearby and you really wanna try out that latest cream or serum, put only a little first and wait a few days to see how your skin reacts. A little patience goes a long way.

4. Misconception: My face is all that matters.

People tend to focus their skincare on their face, and understandably so since our face is what most people see everyday. But your skin covers your entire body, and care needs to be applied to it entirely.

We Recommend: Be mindful of your entire skin.

Regiments and treatments may be different depending on the area, but aim to keep your skin healthy everywhere.

5. The Mistake (yes, an actual mistake): Not being consistent enough with skincare.

People forget that just skincare takes work and consistency. Remembering to use sunscreen, remembering to hydrate, remembering to not overdo OR underdo your skincare.

We Recommend: Keep at it!

Skin care is tough, but you’re tougher. You got this!

References:

American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). How to exfoliate safely. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/skin-care-secrets/routine/exfoliation

Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Skincare for your neck and hands. Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/skin-care-tips-for-your-neck-and-hands/

Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, September 2). The power of skincare consistency. Harvard Health. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/a-guide-to-building-your-skincare-routine-202109022586

Healthline. (n.d.). How to find your skin type. Healthline Media. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-determine-your-skin-type

Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Skin care: Avoid mixing these products. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/skin-care/art-20048237

Skin Cancer Foundation. (n.d.). The importance of daily sunscreen use. Skin Cancer Foundation. Retrieved March 4, 2025, from https://www.skincancer.org/blog/sunscreen-101