In an industry that is rife with marketing tactics and greenwashing, knowing the right thing to do in regards to skincare can feel like a minefield. It’s a different story depending on the brand or resource you consult, or even the old wives’ tale that you may have been told growing up.
Chances are however that there are a few common beliefs that you’ve kept with you over the years, and you might be surprised to find that you’ve been deceived. Below, Feniu’s founder Mele Feniu Olivetti shares five common skincare myths—along with the actual truth behind them.
Myth #1: You can shrink your pores
Being able to shrink your pores is such a common skincare myth that there is now a plethora of products available that make those claims! The truth is however, you can’t actually shrink your pores. What you can do, is minimize their appearance. Our pore size is genetically determined and factors like excessive sebum production or sun damage can make them bigger. But unfortunately, you can’t make them smaller! The only way to help is by using products that minimize the appearance and cleansing thoroughly to prevent clogged pores and reduce oiliness.
Myth #2: Oily skin shouldn’t use oil-based products
Most people are aware of the fact that our faces naturally secrete sebum, or oil, through the sebaceous glands. If you’ve got a naturally oily skin type it certainly sounds counterintuitive to add oil-based products to the skin. However, what many people don’t realize is that the culprit of oily skin is often because the skin has been stripped of its natural oils and therefore has gone into overproduction mode which is what causes more sebum build-up.
If you’ve been using any stripping ingredients like harsh scrubs or exfoliants, or alcohol-based products, there is a chance your skin has been stripped of its natural oils and is now in a cycle of trying to rebalance it out. That’s why some oily skin types can actually benefit from adding an oil-based product into their routine, such as Feniu’s Oil to Foam Cleanser. Its lightweight, oil-to-foam formulation melts away makeup, sunscreen, and excess oils without drying out or stripping the skin.
Myth #3: The harder I scrub, the better my skin
While it might seem like that shiny, tight skin feeling is doing wonders for your complexion, it is actually doing the opposite. Harsh scrubbing and potent products can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause tiny tears on the skin’s surface which then makes the skin go into damage control. The results can be the overproduction of oil which can clog pores, causing pimples and blackheads, as well as a damaged dermal layer which can lead to an array of skin issues. For a balanced complexion, opt for products that use natural ingredients for a gentler approach to beautiful skin.
Myth #4: Hot water is good for my skin
While a really hot shower or bath can feel incredible on the skin, it unfortunately isn’t very good for your complexion. In the same way an alcohol-based cleanser might strip the skin, really hot water does the same. The skin needs its natural oils to function properly and every time you expose it to scalding temperatures, you strip it of these. Washing or showering in hot water strips away your balanced complexion and can leave skin dry and itchy. If you love your hot showers, try only using hot water on your body and turn the temperature down when exposing the skin on your face.
Myth #5: The sunscreen in my foundation is enough protection
No, no, no! While good in theory—two birds, one stone, right?—sunscreen in make-up products does not provide enough protection for your skin. Sure, it’s a start, but it dilutes the amount you’re putting on, so it’s better if you apply your sunscreen all over your face, and body, as a separate step.
If you enjoyed our skincare tips from Feniu founder Mele Olivetti, check out the latest news in regards to beauty.
