Taking care of our skin is important, but it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction when it comes to skin care advice. Some advice may sound good, but can actually be harmful to your skin. We asked dermatologists to share the worst skin care advice they’ve ever heard, so you can avoid these common mistakes and take better care of your skin.
1. You Should Wash Your Face With Hot Water
While it may feel good to wash your face with hot water, it can actually be damaging to your skin. Hot water can strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable to irritation. Instead, use lukewarm water to wash your face, and finish with a splash of cool water to help close your pores.
2. You Should Exfoliate Every Day
Exfoliating can help remove dead skin cells and promote healthy skin, but doing it too often can actually damage your skin. Over-exfoliating can cause redness, irritation, and dryness, so it’s important to stick to a schedule that works for your skin type. Most dermatologists recommend exfoliating once or twice a week.
3. You Should Use Lemon Juice to Lighten Your Skin
While lemon juice may have some natural lightening properties, using it on your skin can actually do more harm than good. Lemon juice is highly acidic and can cause irritation, dryness, and even chemical burns if used improperly. Instead of using lemon juice, look for products that are specifically formulated to lighten and brighten your skin.
4. You Should Skip Moisturizer If You Have Oily Skin
Many people with oily skin believe that skipping moisturizer will help keep their skin clear, but this is actually a myth. Moisturizer helps keep your skin hydrated and can actually help regulate oil production. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that won’t clog your pores.
5. You Should Only Wear Sunscreen When It’s Sunny Outside
UV rays can damage your skin even on cloudy or overcast days, so it’s important to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply every two hours if you’ll be spending time outside.
6. You Should Pick at Your Pimples
Picking at your pimples can be tempting, but it can actually make things worse. Picking can introduce bacteria into your skin, causing more breakouts, and can also lead to scarring and discoloration. Instead of picking, try using a spot treatment or see a dermatologist for professional treatment.
7. You Don’t Need to Use a Different Cleanser for Your Body and Your Face
While it may be tempting to use the same cleanser for your face and your body, this can actually be damaging to your skin. Body washes and bar soaps can be too harsh for your face, stripping your skin of its natural oils and leaving it dry and irritated. Look for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser that’s specifically formulated for your face.