From sunscreen in winter to oily skin: five skincare myths you need to know

Don't let the change of season get you down. We bust all the odd skincare myths that might not be working for your regiment

21 August 2023 - 17:39
By Staff Writer
We look at five myths that might be contributing to unhealthy skincare practices.
Image: Supplied We look at five myths that might be contributing to unhealthy skincare practices.

As seasons change so do our preferred fashion items. However, this is often the case with skincare as well. Our routines need to change according to the weather we are experiencing, and while many might think this means you have to drop a couple of items like sunscreen in cooler weather. 

Everysun brand manager Mario Correia shares that this makes it impossible to keep up with what your skin really needs due to the abundance of information out there. As the beauty industry continues to grow there are many promises made by multiple products on what works best for your skin.

Everysun’s range of sunscreen products is perfect for the entire family all year round. Wear nothing less than SPF 30 on your face to ensure that all exposed skin is protected. 
Image: Supplied Everysun’s range of sunscreen products is perfect for the entire family all year round. Wear nothing less than SPF 30 on your face to ensure that all exposed skin is protected. 

Correia says it's necessary to debunk some of the myths around skincare that might leave people misinformed. Think you know them all, see what our beauty expert warns against when it comes to keeping your skin healthy.

MYTH: The sun is not strong enough to harm your skin during winter, so you don’t need to use sun protection.

TRUE: You need to use sunscreen during winter to protect your skin from the sun as the radiation of sun’s UV rays, even on a cloudy day, can still pass through and damage your skin cells. Skin Cancer Foundation also warns that in winter your sunscreen erodes from your skin faster than in summer due to harsher conditions such as wind, so it is important to reapply during the day.

MYTH: Oily skin doesn't need a moisturiser.

FALSE: All skin types need a moisturiser, including oily skin. Moisturising helps maintain the skin's barrier function and can help regulate oil production. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturisers specifically designed for oily skin.

MYTH: Using more products will give better results.

FALSE: Using multiple skincare products can be beneficial if they target specific skin concerns, but using too many products or layering them incorrectly can overwhelm the skin and lead to irritation. Keep your routine simple and tailored to your skin's needs.

MYTH: Hot water moisturises the skin.

TRUTH: Hot water can do more harm to your skin than good by stripping natural oils from the skin, leaving it drier. When showering or bathing during winter try not to make these too long and to keep the water temperature warm rather than hot. Don’t forget to moisturise your skin after.

Hydration among top skincare myths people get wrong.
Image: iStock Hydration among top skincare myths people get wrong.

MYTH: Vigorous exfoliation of your skin will get rid of blackheads and whiteheads.

TRUTH: Scrubbing and exfoliating too harshly will cause damage to the skin’s protective layer. This type of exfoliation can lead to tiny scratches that can become inflamed and make your skin more vulnerable to infections by allowing microorganisms to enter your skin. Rather exfoliate gently 2-3 times a week.