Skincare Myths That Need to Die: Insights from Joanna Vargas, Celebrity Facialist

When it comes to skincare, myths are everywhere, often leading people down the wrong path. I’ve seen it all as a celebrity facialist—clients coming in with irritated skin from DIY remedies, or skipping essential steps because of common misconceptions. So let’s dive deeper into these myths and set the record straight with some expert advice.

Myth 1: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer

This is one of those myths that absolutely needs to die. The reality is, all skin types—including oily and acne-prone skin—require proper hydration. One of the most basic principles of skincare is that fighting oil with oils can be an effective strategy. Stripping your skin of its natural oils by using harsh cleansers or skipping moisturizer only triggers it to produce more oil, creating a cycle of overproduction that exacerbates the problem.

Instead, I recommend using a moisturizer or serum that contains balancing oils, such as jojoba or argan oil. These mimic your skin’s natural sebum, signaling to your skin that it’s already adequately hydrated. The Rescue serum from my collection, for example, is packed with lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that nourish without clogging pores. By providing your skin with the right kind of moisture, you can actually calm oil production and achieve a healthier, more balanced complexion.

Myth 2: The Harder You Exfoliate, The Better

The idea that aggressive exfoliation is the key to glowing skin is a dangerous one. It’s similar to the outdated notion that beauty has to be painful. In reality, over-exfoliation can damage your skin barrier, leading to increased sensitivity, redness, and even conditions like eczema. Plus, harsh scrubbing can create micro-tears on the skin’s surface, which not only harms the skin but also increases the risk of bacterial spread—especially in acne-prone individuals.

Gentle exfoliation is the way to go. Products with mild exfoliants like lactic acid or fruit enzymes can help remove dead skin cells without damaging the skin barrier. My Exfoliating Mask, for example, uses gentle ingredients like volcanic ash and galactoarabinan to refine the skin’s texture and stimulate collagen production. When done right, exfoliation can brighten your complexion and keep your pores clear—without the damage.

Myth 3: If You Can’t Pronounce It, Don’t Use It

This is a common misconception that tends to scare people away from perfectly safe and effective products. Just because an ingredient has a complicated name doesn’t mean it’s harmful. For example, “sodium hyaluronate” may sound intimidating, but it’s simply a form of hyaluronic acid, a powerful hydrator that attracts moisture to the skin.

Similarly, some of the most effective skincare ingredients are derived from plants and are labeled by their Latin names on product packaging. The key here is education—understanding what these ingredients do and how they benefit your skin. In my line of products, every ingredient is carefully chosen for its efficacy and safety, and I always encourage clients to ask questions if they’re unsure about what’s in their skincare.

Myth 4: At-Home Facials Are Just As Effective As Professional Facials

At-home facials can be a great way to maintain your skin in between professional treatments, but they are not a substitute for seeing a licensed esthetician. Regular professional facials are essential because they allow an expert to assess changes in your skin and adjust your treatment plan accordingly. Seasonal changes, hormonal fluctuations, and even stress can all impact your skin, and a professional can help you navigate these challenges.

In my practice, I offer advanced treatments like LED light therapy, oxygen facials, and microcurrent treatments—technologies that simply can’t be replicated at home. These treatments are designed to rejuvenate the skin, boost collagen production, and target specific concerns like acne, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines. While an at-home facial is a good supplement, it doesn’t replace the expertise and technology that you get from a professional service.

Myth 5: Skincare Products Need to Tingle or Burn to Work

This is one of the most harmful myths out there. While certain active ingredients, like glycolic acid or retinol, might cause a mild tingling sensation, skincare products should not cause discomfort. If you experience burning, itching, or intense tingling, it’s a sign that your skin is having an adverse reaction, and you should stop using the product immediately.

Skin should feel soothed and nourished after applying skincare, not irritated. That’s why I focus on creating products that balance potent active ingredients with calming, healing botanicals. For example, my Daily Serum delivers powerful antioxidants and vitamins to the skin without causing irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive skin types.

Myth 6: Only Teenagers Can Get Acne and Pimples

Acne is not just a teenage problem—far from it. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and environmental factors can lead to breakouts well into your 20s, 30s, and even 40s. I see many clients dealing with adult acne, and it’s important to treat it with care and consistency.

A comprehensive skincare routine that includes regular cleansing, exfoliation, and treatments like LED light therapy can make a huge difference. Additionally, products that contain ingredients like salicylic acid or retinol can help keep breakouts at bay while promoting skin renewal. I always recommend my clients incorporate treatments like my Supernova Serum into their routine, which is formulated with vitamin C and botanical extracts to reduce inflammation and speed up cell turnover, helping to keep skin clear and radiant.

In Conclusion

Debunking these skincare myths is crucial to achieving the best results for your skin. Whether it’s finding the right moisturizer, understanding the importance of professional treatments, or embracing scientifically-backed ingredients, the key is education and consistency. By working with a skincare expert and using products tailored to your needs, you can achieve healthy, glowing skin at any age.

And remember, skincare is about more than just products—it’s about making informed choices that reflect your unique skin type and concerns.