Medicosnext
Dr. Saroj Poudel
He is a dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon with an MD in Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology from AIIMS, New Delhi, India. During his training and professional career, he has undertaken several national and international training in hair transplantation, laser therapy, dermatosurgery and aesthetic dermatology. His clinical interests include hair restoration surgery, laser dermatology, acne and scar treatment, pigmentary disorders and aesthetic medicine. He is committed to providing personalized, safe and effective treatment plans tailored to each patient’s skin and hair concerns. He is the Director and Co- Founder of Nirvana Skin Clinic and Hair Transplant Centre, located in Lazimpat, Kathmandu, where he provides comprehensive dermatological, hair restoration and aesthetic treatments using modern techniques and evidence- based care.
In today’s world, social media has become a powerful tool for influencing the way we approach skincare and it’s easy to see how they spread so quickly. From TikTok to Instagram, platforms are filled with beauty gurus, influencers and everyday users showcasing the latest skincare trends. While some of these trends can seem harmless or even promising, many of them come with serious risks that can harm your skin in the long run.
Misinformation is known to travel six times faster than good information. People often follow random advice from social media, friends or unverified sources, only to end up damaging their skin instead of improving it. What if your glowing skin routine is actually doing long-term damage? These routines aren’t dermatologist-approved—they’re algorithm-approved. And they come with a growing list of red flags: irritation, barrier damage, allergic reactions and even premature ageing from improper use of actives without sun protection.
With so much information out there on skin care, it can be difficult to identify what is true and what is false. At Nirvana Skin Clinic, we regularly see the consequences of misinformed skincare practices. As a dermatologist, I want to debunk some of the most common skincare myths and provide you with evidence-based guidance for achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
Myth 1: Retinoid is a must for clear, glowing skin, even for teens.
Retinoid is a powerful ingredient used to treat aging and acne but it’s not safe for developing skin without professional supervision. It can cause peeling, burning and sun sensitivity.
Teens should focus on a gentle cleanser and SPF. If acne appears, use a mild treatment like benzoyl peroxide or consult a dermatologist.
Myth 2: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days
UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, causing sun damage even when it’s overcast. Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against UVA and UVB rays, preventing premature aging and reducing skin cancer risk.
Apply broad spectrum SPF 30+ every day, regardless of sun visibility.
Myth 3: Combining active ingredients like AHA, BHA, and Vitamin C speeds up results
More isn’t better. Mixing acids and antioxidants without guidance can lead to chemical burns, redness and long-term sensitivity.
Use only one active ingredient at a time, and always do patch test. Teens usually don’t need chemical exfoliants unless treating specific issues.
Myth 4: Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer
All skin types require hydration. Without it, the skin can overproduce oil, worsening shine and breakouts. Lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers balance hydration without clogging pores.
Moisturizing supports all skin types, even oily or acne-prone skin.
Myth 5: Natural ingredients are always better
“Natural” doesn’t guarantee better performance. Some botanical extracts and essential oils can irritate sensitive skin. Dermatologists recommend clinically tested ingredients appropriate for individual skin types.
Choose gentle, evidence-based ingredients rather than assuming natural equals better.
Myth 6: Expensive skincare = better skincare
High price tags don’t automatically mean better results. Many luxury products pushed on TikTok include fragrance, essential oils and active ingredients that are too harsh for young skin.
Many affordable skin care products include the same effective ingredients found in premium lines. Pay attention to ingredient lists and product goals, not just the brand or price.
Go for gentle, budget-friendly drugstore brands with clear labelling (fragrance-free, non-comedogenic).
Myth 7: If it tingles or burns, it means it’s working
Tingling is often a sign of irritation, not effectiveness. Young users mistake discomfort for results, potentially damaging their skin barrier.
Choose fragrance-free, calming products. Products should feel comfortable on the skin. The goal is to support, not stress the skin.
Myth 8: DIY skincare (like lemon juice or toothpaste) is natural and therefore better
Natural doesn’t mean safe. Citrus juices can cause burns; toothpaste contains abrasives and alcohol.
Stick with dermatologist-approved products. Simple salicylic acid spot treatments are far safer and more effective.
Myth 9: Double cleansing twice daily is essential
Over-cleansing strips away essential oils, weakening your skin’s natural defences.
Cleanse once at night to remove dirt and SPF. In the morning, rinse with water or use a very mild cleanser if needed.
Myth 10: You can permanently shrink your pores
Pore size is primarily genetic and cannot be permanently altered. Cleansing and exfoliating can improve appearance, but no product physically shrinks pores permanently.
Focus on appearance-improving measures, not permanent change.
Myth 11: Acne Is only a teenager problem
Acne affects people of all ages. Hormonal changes, stress and lifestyle factors can trigger breakouts in adults as well as teens. Gentle, consistent care is the key to managing acne safely.
Acne isn’t limited to adolescence; adults can experience it too.
Myth 12: Drinking water alone keeps your skin hydrated
While hydration is key, water alone won’t directly change the appearance of dry or dehydrated skin. Moisturizers, serums and other topical treatments help lock in moisture and maintain smooth, nourished skin.
Myth 13: Toothpaste can clear pimples
Toothpaste can dry skin but often causes irritation, redness or allergic reactions. It is not recommended for acne treatment.
Stick to dermatologist-approved treatments rather than home remedies.
Myth 14: Drinking water clears Acne
Hydration is important for overall health but does not cure acne on its own. Although hydration can sometimes help, hormonal factors, inflammation and bacteria are usually the primary contributors.
Water supports health but is not a standalone acne solution.
Myth 15: The more products you use, the better your skin
Overloading your skin with too many products can irritate it and compromise the skin barrier. A few evidence-based steps, gentle cleansing, moisturizing and sunscreen are often sufficient.
Simpler, consistent routines are more effective than complex regimens.
Myth 16: Popping spots and pimples will help them heal faster
When you squeeze a spot, it can make them worse as you risk pushing bacteria deeper into the skin, which can lead to an increase in inflammation and potentially cause scarring. When it comes to spots, it’s best to leave them to heal on their own.
Instead, focus on managing excess oil, bacteria and clogged pores without irritating, drying or stripping the skin. Look at using a gentle cleanser, toner or spot treatment for the skin and a gentle, calming moisturiser.
Myth 17: A skincare routine is only needed if you have skin problems
A skincare routine can be beneficial for anyone and can help maintain healthy skin. It can help to prevent breakouts and protect the skin. A skincare routine with a gentle cleanser, moisturisers and SPF is great for helping to maintain skin health.
Final Thought:
Social media like Tik Tok and Instagram can be a fun place to explore self-care, but when skincare becomes a source of damage instead of confidence, it’s time to press pause. Understanding red flags is the first step to healthier habits and happier skin. Let influencers entertain you, not decide your skincare routine. When in doubt, talk to your dermatologist.
