Skincare Myths To Stop Believing in 2025
In a world of information overload, we are often faced with a new skincare wonder-treatment from a well-meaning friend, family member or beauty influencer. But how do we know who to trust, and which adjustments to our routines really are miracles, and which are myths?
Using my 20 years of dermatological experience, I have debunked the biggest skincare myths below (and a few that might seem far-fetched, but actually are worth following!).
‘Natural’ Skincare Myths
Myth #1: Natural, botanical skincare products are better for your skin
This is one of the biggest skincare myths, with the narrative centered around natural products being better for you than their lab-made counterparts. In fact, many natural products are unregulated, and those that include natural essential oils can lead to significant allergic reactions. To keep your skin safe, make sure to look for brands that prioritise rigorous testing, and only use botanicals and actives that are proven to be safe for use on the skin.
Myth #2: Potatoes Are The Key To Perfect Skin
Whilst extolling the benefits of potatoes as skincare may have originated in Peru, the trend really took off when it was co-opted by TikTok influencers. The narrative goes that vitamin C and salicylic acid-rich potatoes can calm inflammation and reduce breakouts – but unfortunately, there is no clinical evidence to support these claims. Save the potatoes for supper.
Common Skincare Myths
Myth #1: You Need To Let Your Spots Dry Out
This couldn’t be more false. In fact, you need to properly maintain your skin barrier through cleansing and hydration to manage breakouts. If you don’t look after your skin barrier adequately, it will be impaired – causing irritation, inflammation and, eventually, exacerbating acne.
Myth #2: You Don’t Need To Use Sunscreen If Your Make Up Contains SPF
Whilst using a foundation or powder with SPF isn’t a bad idea as such, it is thought that to adequately protect your face you’d need seven times more foundation or 14 times more powder than is usually used. As such, daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF (of factor 30 or higher) is necessary to protect against skin-damaging UVA and UVB rays.
Myth #3: Dark Circles Are Caused By A Lack Of Sleep
There are a number of factors that might contribute to dark circles, but sleep isn’t one of them. Dark circles can be caused by genetics, blue veins under your eyes, hyperpigmentation or even chronic rubbing of the eyes due to allergies. And whilst a good night’s sleep might make you feel better, in a battle against under-eye shadows, a healthy diet, fresh air, exercise and plenty of water are all more likely to deliver results.
Weird Skincare Myths
Myth #1: Toothpaste Will Cure A Spot
This is an age-old myth we dermatologists hear almost daily, that refuses to disappear! In short: toothpaste is designed for your teeth. It’s not tested for use on your skin, and often results in redness, inflammation, itching and even burning. Step away from the toothpaste tube and towards a targeted spot treatment.
Myth #2: Breast Milk Is An Amazing Addition To Your Skincare Routine
Whilst there is an ongoing debate on whether a mother’s breastmilk might treat her baby’s infant acne, there is no evidence it has any effect on adult skin. You’re better off with real skincare for the face and body.
Myth #3: Make Up Makes You Age
There is zero evidence that cosmetics contribute to skin ageing. As long as you have a solid skincare routine to cleanse, moisturise and protect before and after, then there is no need to stay away from the cosmetics counter.
True Skincare Myths
Truth #1: You Need SPF Indoors
This is utterly true – SPF is an all-year, all-day, whatever the weather skincare must-have. Damaging UVA rays can penetrate glass, so be sure to wear protection whatever your plans.
Truth #2: Eating Sweets Can Cause Spots
Foods that raise your blood sugar can increase the likelihood of breaking out. With that said, I have a serious sweet-tooth and I believe in everything in moderation – so I am not going to recommend cutting out sugar completely.
Truth #3: Yoghurt Can Make A Good DIY Face Mask
Whilst claims that yoghurt can alleviate hyperpigmentation are overstated (in fact, yoghurt’s lactic acid levels are too low to have a real impact), in clinical trials it has been seen to increase the skin’s moisture, and some evidence suggests it can also increase improve and calm inflammation. With that said: not all yoghurt is created equal – if you do want to indulge, make sure it’s a plain and unflavoured.
