When it comes to skincare, many of us grew up hearing advice from our mothers, but not all of it is as effective today as it once seemed. Some well-intentioned skincare tips have been passed down through generations, only to be debunked by modern dermatology. If you’ve been following these old-school tricks, it might be time to rethink your routine and embrace a more informed approach.
Focusing Only on Your Face
One of the most persistent skincare myths is that your face deserves all the attention, while other parts of your body can be neglected. Many people make the mistake of applying care products like sunscreen and moisturizers solely to their face, ignoring areas like the neck, chest, and hands. As we age, these areas can show signs of wear and tear just as easily as our faces. “If you focus only on your face, you’re going to miss out on preventing premature signs of aging on your neck and hands,” says dermatologists. Extending your routine to include these areas especially with sunscreen and moisturizer can ensure a more even and youthful appearance as you age.
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Applying Petroleum Jelly Everywhere
For years, many moms swore by the healing powers of petroleum jelly (Vaseline), advising that a thick layer could solve a variety of skin problems. While it’s true that petroleum jelly is an effective barrier to lock in moisture, it’s not ideal for every part of your dermis. “Vaseline is highly comedogenic, which means it can clog pores and lead to breakouts,” explains dermatologists.
While it can be helpful for extremely dry patches or cracked heels, slathering it on your entire face or other sensitive areas can result in clogged pores and blemishes. Instead, consider using a lighter, non-comedogenic moisturizer for your face, saving the petroleum jelly for more targeted areas like elbows or feet.
Swearing by Powder Products
Many mothers advised their daughters to stick with powder-based makeup, thinking it provided a matte finish that would control oil and give a smooth look throughout the day. However, dermatologists caution against overuse of powder makeup, especially for those with dry or aging skin. Dr. Shereene Idriss advises against overusing products with certain ingredients like hyaluronic acid. “Excessive use of powder makeup can actually exacerbate dryness and make fine lines more noticeable.”
Instead of relying on powder, consider liquid foundations or tinted moisturizers that hydrate the skin, offering a more youthful and glowing finish.
Washing Your Face with Bar Soap
When we were kids, many of us were taught to wash our faces with bar soap, assuming it would cleanse thoroughly. However, this traditional method can be much harsher than we realized. Bar soap tends to strip away natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. “Traditional bar soaps can cause the skin’s pH balance to shift, leaving it feeling tight and uncomfortable,” experts explain. Instead, dermatologists recommend opting for a gentle, pH-balanced facial cleanser. These products are formulated to cleanse without disturbing the natural protective barrier, leaving the complexion refreshed and hydrated. Switching to a mild, non-stripping cleanser can improve overall health over time.
Avoiding Face Oils (But Using Suntan Oils)
One of the most enduring skincare myths is that oily complexions should never use face oils. Many people grew up believing that oils would only exacerbate acne and clog pores, leading to a greasy, breakout-prone appearance. However, this belief has been debunked by modern science. “Face oils are designed to nourish and hydrate the skin, and they can actually balance oil production, even for those with oily or acne-prone types,” dermatologists confirm. Face oils are not only for dry types; they can also improve hydration, reduce inflammation, and support the natural barrier, making them beneficial for all.
