This post was reviewed and updated by Sarah Otto, Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Founder of Otto Skin Goods on September 8, 2026.

The internet has given everyone a platform—which is precisely the problem when it comes to skincare advice. Misinformation spreads as readily as fact, and much of it predates the internet entirely. Long before social media, dubious wisdom was already circulating at the kitchen table: toothpaste as a blemish treatment, butter for burns, egg whites as a makeshift face mask. Sound familiar?

Some of these myths are more persistent than others, and even experienced skincare professionals aren't immune to a few of them. That's understandable; the rumors are often convincing. Below, we've gathered five of the most common skincare myths and examined what actually holds up.

1. Myth: You need to wash your face twice a day.

Cleansing is foundational to any skincare routine, but more isn't always better. Washing away makeup, sweat, and daily grime is essential—yet cleansing first thing in the morning isn't always necessary. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural ceramides and compromise its protective barrier. A more measured approach: reserve cleansing for before bed and after exercise.

2. Myth: Sunscreen is absolutely essential every single day.

This may be counterintuitive, but daily SPF isn't a universal requirement. It's indispensable during summer months, for those with sensitive skin, for anyone with significant sun exposure, or with a history of skin cancer. At the same time, the body needs Vitamin D, and constant sunscreen use—particularly physical, sun-deflecting formulas—can interfere with that. Skipping SPF on an overcast winter day isn't cause for alarm. The better strategy is thoughtful sun exposure overall: protective clothing and hats are genuinely effective alternatives, and regular dermatologist skin checks remain non-negotiable.

3. Myth: Retinol is the gold standard for anti-aging.

Retinol can be transformative for those who tolerate it well—but that group is smaller than commonly assumed. For many people, retinol brings redness, dryness, and irritation, even when introduced gradually or used sparingly. Those with sensitive, dry, or reactive skin should proceed with particular caution. Alternatives like Vitamin C and niacinamide often deliver comparable benefits with far less irritation.

4. Myth: Essential oils are safe alternatives to synthetic fragrances.

Most people with sensitivities to synthetic fragrance also react to essential oils and natural fragrance. While these alternatives typically avoid phthalates and other synthetic additives, they remain genuinely irritating for anyone with a true fragrance allergy. For those without such sensitivities, however, essential oils and natural fragrance are perfectly reasonable choices—not every product needs to be fragrance-free.

5. Myth: Learning how to layer skincare properly will reduce irritation.

Layering is often overstated in importance. Applying more than two active products at once tends to invite trouble rather than prevent it. The more valuable skill is understanding the ingredients themselves, so you avoid unintentionally doubling up on similar actives—a common cause of sensitization and irritation. Skin rarely requires an elaborate routine to thrive; a streamlined approach with a few well-chosen active ingredients typically yields the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need to wash my face twice a day?

Not necessarily. Over-cleansing can strip your skin's natural ceramides and weaken its protective barrier. A better approach is to cleanse before bed and after workouts, rather than automatically doing so morning and night.

Should I wear sunscreen every single day, even in winter or on cloudy days?

Daily SPF is important during high-exposure periods: summer, direct sunlight, or if you have a history of skin cancer or sensitive skin. However, it's not strictly necessary every day year-round. Your body also needs some sun exposure for Vitamin D. Protective clothing and hats can be just as effective, and regular dermatologist checkups matter more than perfect daily SPF compliance.

Is retinol the best anti-aging ingredient for everyone?

No. While retinol works well for some, it frequently causes redness, dryness, and irritation—especially for those with sensitive or dry skin. Vitamin C and niacinamide are often better-tolerated alternatives with similar benefits.

Are essential oils a safer alternative to synthetic fragrance?

It depends. If you have a true fragrance allergy, essential oils and natural fragrances can still trigger irritation. If you don't have that specific allergy, they're generally a fine option since they typically avoid phthalates.

Will learning to layer my skincare products properly prevent irritation?

Layering isn't the key skill. Restraint is. Using more than two active products at once often causes more irritation than it prevents. It's more effective to understand your ingredients and avoid unintentionally combining similar actives.