Are You Making These Common Skincare Mistakes?

Your skincare routine might feel like a part-time job at this point: You’ve tried the serums your best friend swears by, read every “must-have” list from beauty influencers, and stood in front of the bathroom mirror wondering if that pricey eye cream is a magic elixir or just wishful thinking. (It’s not vanity — it’s self-care, right?) But even with all our good intentions, some common myths about skincare might still be steering us wrong.

Part of the reason for the confusion is that skincare has evolved so much over the decades. So those beauty tips your grandma gave you may not be relevant today. “We’ve made real advancements — multitasking products, inclusive formulations, and better testing across skin tones and types,” Dr. Rolanda Wilkerson, a principal scientist and skincare expert at Procter & Gamble explains. “People want effective solutions that simplify their routine without compromising results.” 

So how do you avoid unproductive techniques, over-the-top product hype, or outdated advice? Dr. Wilkerson shares a few truths that everyone needs to know — so you can ensure that whatever’s on your beauty shelf is working for you, not against you.

Myth #1: More products equals better results

Many people believe that layering on multiple serums and creams will maximize benefits, but that’s not always true. Innovation in multitasking products, like OLAY’s Super Serum, is revolutionizing skincare — and helping you cut down on unnecessary steps.

“People used to think they needed this serum for one benefit, and another for a different benefit. But we’ve found ways to combine ingredients like low-pH niacinamide, vitamin C, and lactic acid into one product that works faster, penetrates deeper, and delivers multiple benefits — tone, texture, hydration, firmness, and smoothness — all at once,” says Dr. Wilkerson. And as a busy mom of three, she especially prioritizes products that save time while still delivering results. The biggest takeaway? Efficiency is key.

Myth #2: Skincare is just about looks

While many focus on skincare for aesthetic reasons, Dr. Wilkerson reminds us of its broader importance, particularly around sun protection.

“Don’t forget SPF. It’s one of the simplest and most important things you can do for your skin,” she says. “It’s not just about looking good — it’s about protecting your health.”

Dr. Wilkerson also emphasizes that SPF is crucial for everyone, regardless of skin color. “Many people think darker skin doesn’t need sun protection, but that’s a myth. UV rays can damage all skin tones and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer.”

Prioritizing daily SPF is essential to safeguard your skin from premature aging and damage. And remember, it’s not just for sunny days spent outside — UV rays can still reach you when you’re driving in your car or working near a window at home.

Myth #3: Cleansing is just about removing dirt

Washing your face may seem like a simple step, but according to Dr. Wilkerson, it’s about much more than just wiping away the day. In fact, it’s like prepping a wall before painting; without a clean, smooth surface, nothing you apply afterward will function as it should. “Cleansing is more than just getting rid of dirt,” she says. “It’s about preparing your skin so the products you use next can actually work.” In other words, washing up isn’t optional — it’s the bedrock of a glowing, healthy visage. 

“A clean facial palette allows your skincare actives to penetrate better on the surface of the skin,” she explains. “That’s why cleansing is a foundational step — it prepares your skin to get the most out of your routine.”

Innovative cleansers, like OLAY’s new Cleansing Melts, don’t just remove makeup and oil, they work to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier while lifting impurities. Dissolving in seconds with just a splash of water, the melts create a rich, micro-bubble lather that’s both effective and gentle, making them a game-changer for travel or otherwise hectic routines. This ensures a healthy balance — a barrier that’s clean but not stripped — a critical factor for optimal skin health.

Myth #4: Skincare research hasn’t evolved much

The products on today’s beauty aisle shelves are much more sophisticated than they used to be. That’s partly because the science behind skincare has evolved tremendously in recent years, becoming more inclusive and precise.

“At OLAY, we’re much more intentional about who we test with — multiple skin tones, types, and ages — to make sure products meet a variety of needs,” says Dr. Wilkerson. “Thirty years ago, our clinical studies weren’t as inclusive as they are today.”

This progress means today’s lotions and potions are better equipped to address specific concerns across diverse groups. From ensuring formulations work across all skin tones to testing for effectiveness at different life stages, modern research prioritizes personalized, effective solutions. 

Ultimately, proper skincare shouldn’t be a mystery, nor does it need to feel overwhelming. Armed with modern research, innovative products, and a commitment to what truly works, you can approach your routine with clarity and confidence. Because at the end of the day, great skin isn’t just about looking good — it’s about feeling good in your skin.

Explore more truths about skincare and debunk other common myths by visiting P&G’s myth-busting series.