FALSE

Hygiene doesn't play a role in the development of acne. Acne involves oil production, bacteria, clogged pores, and inflammation, with hormones and stress playing a significant role and (to a lesser extent) diet for some people. Not washing your face doesn't help your situation but it certainly doesn't cause acne,” said Dr. Peterson Pierre, dermatologist and founder of the Pierre Skin Care Institute in Westlake Village, California.

FALSE

Natural ingredients aren’t always better for your skin. One of the biggest downsides of using natural ingredients is that they have a shorter expiration period (because they are not preserved) and are more susceptible to the growth of bacteria and mold over time. The type of ingredients that are most beneficial vary from person to person. While natural ingredients may work best for some, they may not work as well for others.

TRUE

Many people with oily skin are hesitant to use a moisturizer because they feel it will worsen the problem. However, quite the opposite is true. By not moisturizing, you can make the problem worse because your skin will overcompensate by producing excess sebum. Using a cleanser will strip your skin of it’s natural oils, leaving your skin dry and more irritated. Applying a moisturizer afterwards helps keep you skin nourished and balanced.

“If you really want to skip steps, try an oil cleanser, like micellar water. It will leave your skin’s pH intact; therefore (for some skin types), you won’t need to apply additional product.” -Shauna Dermigny

FALSE

Some skincare products may cause slight harmless tingling - however, if it’s burning your skin, remove the product immediately with cool water or a damp washcloth. Using the “no pain, no gain” mentality can be harmful here, as it may result in irritation and blotchiness. If you have sensitive skin, burning may occur in more products than for others but be cautious that it could also be a more serious issue like being allergic to an ingredient. 

TRUE

When using hot water to wash your face, your skin is being stripped from its natural oils and breaking down its protective barrier which causes dryness and sometimes irritation. However, this doesn’t mean the water needs to be freezing cold either. If the water is too cold, it may not be as effective in cleaning out dirt and grime. Using a lukewarm temperature will be the most beneficial for your skin. 

FALSE

While exfoliation is great for your skin, doing it too frequently can be harmful. Exfoliating daily can cause your skin to become overly sensitive and lead to dryness, irritation and redness. Generally, its best to exfoliate two to three times a week (depending on the strength and ingredients you use for exfoliation).