Beauty Myths, Busted: Let’s Set the Record Straight (And Have Some Fun Doing It)

We’ve all heard them. Beauty myths passed down through generations, whispered during sleepovers, or seen on social media (because everything on the internet has to be true, right?). Whether it’s your grandma telling you to wash your hair 100 times or Instagram claiming toothpaste is the answer to acne, these myths have made their way into our beauty routines—and some have stuck way too long.

But fear not, beauty lovers! It’s time to bust some of the most commonly held beauty myths, once and for all. Get ready to toss those old wives' tales in the trash along with that expired mascara, because the truth is about to set you free (and give you better skin!).

Myth #1: “Shaving Makes Your Hair Grow Back Thicker”

Ah, the classic. Somewhere along the line, someone decided that shaving your legs (or any other body part) turns you into a full-on werewolf. According to this myth, every time you run a razor over your skin, your hair grows back thicker, darker, and more terrifying than ever.

The truth: Hair doesn’t have magical powers. When you shave, you’re cutting the hair at the surface, not altering its structure. What happens is that the blunt edge of the shaved hair can feel thicker or coarser, but the hair itself isn’t changing at a molecular level. So, don’t fear the razor—it’s not plotting against you.

Myth #2: “Toothpaste is a Cure for Pimples”

This is the one that makes dermatologists everywhere collectively facepalm. Sure, toothpaste dries out a zit like magic, but that doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin.

The truth: Toothpaste contains harsh ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide, which can dry out pimples but can also irritate and inflame your skin (yikes). It’s better to reach for actual acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid—things that are, you know, meant for your face, not your teeth.

Myth #3: “You Should Wash Your Hair Every Day”

If you’ve ever been scolded for skipping a wash day, this one’s for you. Many people still believe that washing your hair every single day is a must for keeping it healthy and clean. Spoiler alert: It’s not.

The truth: Over-washing your hair strips away the natural oils that keep your scalp and strands happy. Depending on your hair type, skipping a day (or two, or three) between washes can actually improve your hair’s condition. Plus, dry shampoo was invented for a reason, right?

Myth #4: “You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days”

Just because the sun is playing hide-and-seek behind some clouds doesn’t mean it’s not getting the last laugh. UV rays can still reach your skin even when it’s overcast, and they don’t care if you forgot to apply your SPF.

The truth: About 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, so yes, you still need sunscreen on those dreary days. UV rays are also sneaky when you’re indoors, thanks to windows, so don’t skip the SPF when you’re sitting by that sunny office window. Sunscreen is a 365-days-a-year situation.

Myth #5: “Plucking Gray Hairs Makes More Grow Back”

The minute you spot your first gray hair, you’re tempted to pluck it out like it’s an unwanted guest at a party. But then you remember the myth: pluck one, and seven more will come to the funeral. Is your head doomed to be overtaken by silver strands?

The truth: Plucking one gray hair won’t summon an army. Each hair follicle can only grow one hair at a time, so pulling out one gray hair doesn’t mean seven more will magically sprout. However, repeatedly plucking can damage the follicle and lead to less hair growth in that spot—so maybe just embrace the silver or call your colorist.

Myth #6: “You Can Shrink Your Pores”

Pore size has been blamed for countless beauty woes, leading to the endless search for ways to “shrink” them into oblivion. But can those little holes in your face really get smaller?

The truth: Sorry, but pores don’t have the ability to shrink. Their size is mostly determined by genetics. What you can do, though, is make them appear smaller by keeping them clean and unclogged. Exfoliating regularly and using products like salicylic acid or retinoids can minimize the appearance of pores, but they’re not going anywhere, so love them as they are.

Myth #7: “You Must Switch Up Your Skincare Products Regularly”

We’ve all heard this one: your skin gets “used to” products, so you need to change up your routine to keep them working. It’s kind of like thinking your face gets bored of the same old cleanser.

The truth: Skin doesn’t get bored. If you’ve found products that work for your skin, stick with them! As long as they continue to address your skin’s needs and don’t cause irritation, you don’t need to change things up. However, your skin does change over time (due to age, climate, etc.), so adjustments might be needed down the road—but not because your skin “outsmarted” your favorite serum.

Myth #8: “You Only Need Sunscreen When You're Outside”

Heading out for a beach day? Sunscreen is a must. But staying inside, just chilling by the window? You’re fine without it, right?

The truth: Not so fast. Even if you’re inside, UV rays can sneak through windows and still damage your skin. UVA rays, which are responsible for aging, can penetrate glass and cause long-term damage. So, unless you’re living in a windowless bunker, sunscreen is a daily essential—even when you’re indoors.

Myth #9: “Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer”

Oily skin people, you’ve been told to avoid moisturizer like the plague. After all, why would you want to add more moisture to already shiny skin?

The truth: Oily skin needs hydration too! In fact, skipping moisturizer can cause your skin to produce even more oil to compensate for the lack of moisture. Opt for lightweight, oil-free moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores or adding extra shine. Your skin will thank you for it.

Myth #10: “Expensive Products Are Always Better”

It’s easy to think that the pricier a product, the more magical it is. But does a fancy price tag always equal better results?

The truth: Nope! Price doesn’t always reflect a product’s effectiveness. Sure, some expensive products are worth the splurge, but there are also plenty of affordable, drugstore options that deliver amazing results. What matters most are the ingredients and how they work for your skin. Sometimes, the beauty gems are hiding on the bottom shelf at the drugstore.

There you have it—ten beauty myths, busted wide open! From razors to sunscreens, it’s time to leave the old wives’ tales in the past and embrace the science-backed facts. Whether you’re switching up your routine or embracing your natural beauty, knowing the truth behind these common myths will set you free from unnecessary beauty blunders. So go ahead, live your best myth-free life, and pass the wisdom on to your friends (and maybe to Grandma, too!).