Scrolling through social media, it’s easy to come across skincare advice that promises glowing skin, smaller pores, or overnight results. While some tips are backed by science, others have been repeated so often that they’ve become accepted as fact-even when they aren’t.

The truth is, healthy skin isn’t about following every trend you see online. Understanding what’s fact and what’s fiction can help you make better decisions for your skin and avoid wasting time (and money) on products or routines that don’t work for you.

Let’s debunk 10 of the most common skincare myths and separate fact from fiction.

Myth #1: If It Tingles or Burns, It’s Working

Many people assume that if a skincare product tingles or burns, it must be working harder. In reality, that’s not necessarily true.

Some active ingredients, like certain exfoliating acids, can create a mild tingling sensation for some people. However, burning, stinging, or significant discomfort may be a sign that the product is irritating your skin or damaging your skin barrier. Skincare doesn’t have to hurt to be effective. If a product consistently causes discomfort, it may be worth reducing how often you use it or choosing a formula that’s better suited to your skin.

Myth #2: You Need a 10-Step Skincare Routine

Social media has made lengthy skincare routines look like the secret to healthy skin, but more products don’t always lead to better results.

A well-rounded routine doesn’t have to be complicated. For many people, a cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and one or two treatment products are all that’s needed. The best routine is one that’s consistent and tailored to your skin’s individual needs—not one with the most steps.

Myth #3: Retinol Can’t Be Used in the Summer

Retinol often gets a bad reputation during the warmer months, but you don’t have to stop using it just because it’s summer.

Retinol is best applied in the evening, and because it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, it’s especially important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. As long as you’re using it correctly and protecting your skin from the sun, retinol can remain part of your skincare routine year-round.

Myth #4: Toothpaste Gets Rid of Pimples

This is one of the oldest skincare “hacks” out there, but it’s not one worth trying.

Toothpaste is formulated for your teeth—not your skin. Many toothpastes contain ingredients that can dry out or irritate the skin, potentially making blemishes look even worse. Instead, use products specifically formulated to treat acne or consult a skincare professional if breakouts are a persistent concern.

Myth #5: Greasy Foods Cause Acne

Many people believe eating pizza or French fries will automatically lead to breakouts, but acne is much more complicated than that.

Acne is influenced by a combination of genetics, hormones, inflammation, and skincare habits. While research suggests that certain foods may affect acne in some individuals, greasy foods themselves aren’t considered a direct cause. If you’re concerned that your diet may be affecting your skin, it’s best to look at your overall eating habits rather than blaming one specific food.

Myth #6: You Only Need Sunscreen on Sunny Days

Cloudy weather doesn’t mean your skin is protected from UV rays.

Ultraviolet rays are present year-round and can still reach your skin on overcast days. Some UV rays can even pass through windows, which is why daily sunscreen is recommended whether you’re spending the day outdoors or working near a sunny window. Making sunscreen part of your everyday routine is one of the simplest ways to help protect your skin from premature aging and sun damage.

Myth #7: Your Skin Gets “Used To” Products, So You Should Switch Them Often

If your favorite skincare products are working well, there’s usually no reason to stop using them.

Your skin doesn’t typically become immune to effective skincare ingredients. What often changes is your skin itself. Seasonal weather, age, hormones, stress, and lifestyle can all influence how your skin behaves over time. If your skin’s needs change, your routine may need to change too—but not because your products suddenly stopped working.

Myth #8: Drinking More Water Will Give You Glowing Skin

Staying hydrated is important for your overall health, but drinking more water alone won’t transform your complexion overnight.

Healthy-looking skin depends on many factors, including your skin barrier, genetics, environment, sleep, nutrition, and skincare routine. Drinking enough water supports your body, but glowing skin usually comes from a combination of healthy habits and a consistent skincare routine.

Myth #9: Pores Open and Close

You’ve probably heard that hot water opens your pores and cold water closes them.

In reality, pores don’t have muscles, so they can’t physically open or close. Heat and steam can help loosen oil and debris trapped inside your pores, making them easier to cleanse, while cold water may temporarily reduce the appearance of puffiness. However, neither one changes the actual size of your pores.

Myth #10: More Products = Better Skin

It can be tempting to try every trending serum, toner, and face mask you see online, but using more products doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get better results.

In fact, layering too many active ingredients can sometimes lead to irritation and make it difficult to figure out what’s actually helping your skin. A thoughtfully chosen routine with products that work well for your skin is often far more effective than a shelf full of products you rarely use consistently.

The Bottom Line

Skincare trends come and go, but healthy skin starts with understanding the basics. While it’s fun to discover new products and techniques, not everything you see online is backed by science.

When building your skincare routine, focus on consistency, choose products that fit your skin’s individual needs, and don’t be afraid to question advice that sounds too good to be true. Sometimes the best skincare decisions come from keeping things simple and sticking with what works for you.