7 common skincare myths, debunked

It seems logical—if your skin is already oily, why slather on more moisture? However, the reality is that when you deprive your skin of hydration by skipping moisturiser, it tries to compensate by producing even more oil. This overproduction can lead to clogged pores, breakouts, and an overall unbalanced skin barrier.

What you should be doing: Opt for a lightweight, oil-free, or gel-based moisturiser. Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid (to retain moisture) or niacinamide (which helps regulate oil production). These will give your skin the hydration it craves without the heavy, greasy feeling you're trying to avoid.

Bad news: your pores aren't like your favourite wool sweater—they can't be shrunk in the wash. The size of your pores is primarily determined by genetics and cannot be permanently changed. When pores appear bigger, it's often because they’re stretched out due to loss of skin elasticity or clogged with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells. Whilst you can't physically shrink them, you can, however, minimise their appearance.

What actually works: Focus on keeping your pores clean and your skin healthy. Regular exfoliation with chemical exfoliants like salicylic acid (BHA) can help clear out debris and excess sebum, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores. Retinoids are also excellent for improving skin texture and boosting collagen production, making pores appear more refined over time. And don’t forget sunscreen—UV damage can break down collagen, leading to loss of firmness and elasticity.

Whilst many natural ingredients offer excellent skincare benefits, "natural" doesn't automatically mean better or safer. The efficacy and safety of a skincare product depend on its formulation and the specific needs of the individual's skin, not solely on whether its ingredients are natural or synthetic. For example, some plant-based oils like jojoba and squalane can be highly beneficial for hydration, whilst other natural ingredients—such as lemon juice or undiluted essential oils—can cause irritation, burns, or even allergic reactions. On the other hand, many synthetic ingredients, like niacinamide and peptides, are carefully formulated and tested for safety and efficacy.

What actually works: The key is not to fear synthetic ingredients but to focus on well-formulated products backed by research, ensuring they are safe, effective, and suited to your skin’s unique needs. Ultimately, what matters most is the ingredient’s function, concentration, and how it interacts with your skin, rather than whether it comes from nature or a lab. Always check for research-backed formulations and patch-test new products to ensure compatibility with your skin.

UV rays don't take a break just because you're inside. UVA rays can penetrate through glass, which means your skin is still exposed whilst you're just sitting by a window or driving—and these rays reach deep into the skin. On top of that, indoor lighting and electronic devices emit blue light, which can cause oxidative stress and accelerate signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

The golden rule: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 daily, even if you’re staying indoors—and don’t forget to reapply every two hours! For extra protection against blue light damage, look for a sunscreen with antioxidants like vitamin C or E, which help combat free radicals and support your skin’s natural defence system.

Read more: 12 lightweight sunscreens for everyday skin protection

Your skin doesn't need a 10-step routine to be healthy. In fact, using too many products can overwhelm your skin—especially if you’re mixing multiple active ingredients that don’t play well together—leading to irritation, breakouts, and a compromised skin barrier. The key to effective skincare isn't quantity, but quality and consistency.

What actually works: Focus on a simple yet effective routine with key essentials: a gentle cleanser, a hydrating moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum SPF during the day. If you want to add targeted treatments, introduce them gradually and listen to your skin. Avoid using too many exfoliating acids at once. Layering AHAs, BHAs, and retinoids can lead to over-exfoliation and sensitivity. Remember that less is more.

Keeping your skin clean is important, but washing your face too frequently can strip away its natural oils and disrupt its protective barrier, leading to dryness, irritation, breakouts, and even increased oil production as your skin tries to compensate for the moisture loss. Over time, excessive washing will weaken your skin’s ability to retain moisture, making it more vulnerable to environmental stressors and premature aging. It’s a cycle of dehydration and excess oil production, causing your skin to become increasingly unbalanced and sensitive.

What to do instead: Stick to cleansing your face twice a day—once in the morning to remove overnight buildup and once at night to wash away dirt, oil, and pollutants. If your skin feels dry or tight after cleansing, switch to a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser that effectively cleanses without stripping moisture Need a midday refresh after a workout or a hot day? Opt for micellar water or a gentle toner instead of doing a full cleanse. And if you wear makeup or sunscreen, double cleanse at night (oil-based first, water-based second) to ensure all residue is removed. This approach helps maintain your skin's delicate balance whilst keeping it clean and healthy.

NOW READ

The best hair salons in the Klang Valley

Beauty with a purpose: Beauty brands with rewarding recycling programmes to give your empties a second life

20 celebrities over 50 who are mastering the art of ageing gracefully