School of Dermatology

    Evidence-Based

    Myth vs. Fact

    Skincare is full of misinformation. We break down the most common claims and tell you what the science actually says.

    Drinking More Water Hydrates Your Skin
    PARTIALLY TRUE

    Drinking More Water Hydrates Your Skin

    Staying hydrated helps, but it's not the skin solution you think.

    Oily Skin Doesn't Need Moisturizer
    MYTH

    Oily Skin Doesn't Need Moisturizer

    Skipping moisturizer might be making your oily skin worse.

    Pores Open and Close With Hot and Cold Water
    MYTH

    Pores Open and Close With Hot and Cold Water

    Your pores don't have muscles — here's what really happens.

    You Only Need SPF on Sunny Days
    MYTH

    You Only Need SPF on Sunny Days

    UVA rays don't care about clouds — and neither should you.

    Greasy Food Causes Acne
    PARTIALLY TRUE

    Greasy Food Causes Acne

    It's not the grease — but your diet does play a role.

    Natural Ingredients Are Always Safer Than Synthetic Ones
    MYTH

    Natural Ingredients Are Always Safer Than Synthetic Ones

    Poison ivy is natural too — here's why 'natural' means nothing for safety.

    You Need to Feel a Tingle for a Product to Be Working
    MYTH

    You Need to Feel a Tingle for a Product to Be Working

    That burning feeling isn't a sign of progress — it's irritation.

    Toothpaste Helps Dry Out Pimples
    MYTH

    Toothpaste Helps Dry Out Pimples

    Put down the Colgate — there are much better options.

    Blackheads Are Caused by Dirty Skin
    MYTH

    Blackheads Are Caused by Dirty Skin

    They're not dirt — they're oxidized sebum. And scrubbing makes it worse.

    Expensive Skincare Always Works Better
    MYTH

    Expensive Skincare Always Works Better

    Price tags don't equal results — here's what actually matters.

    You Stop Needing Sunscreen Indoors
    MYTH

    You Stop Needing Sunscreen Indoors

    UVA rays go right through your windows — yes, even at your desk.

    You Need to Match Your Skincare to Your Age
    MYTH

    You Need to Match Your Skincare to Your Age

    Your skin type matters more than the number of candles on your cake.