Busting The Top 5 Skincare Myths

Skincare advice is more common than the common cold. Whether you're scrolling through TikTok and adopting the newest 17-step routine, or you're scouring the globe for the latest and greatest must-have-wunderkind product, more often than not, you're left wondering why your skin isn't glowing like it was promised. One of the things I love most about consultations is getting to help clients sift through all the noise and figure out what's actually helpful, what's just outdated advice, and what can make a real difference for their unique skin.

Here are the most common skincare myths I come across in the studio, along with what truly works.

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Myth 1: "Oily Skin Doesn't Need Hydration."

If I had a dollar for every time a client with oily skin confided, "I skipped moisturizer… I thought it wasn't necessary," I'd have enough to buy every Bergen County HydraCool Serum out there.

The Reality: Hydration isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must, even for those with oily skin. When skin feels parched, it starts cranking out more oil to make up for the lack of moisture. That's why many clients who insist they're "too oily for moisturizer" end up discovering a new balance in their skin once they introduce the right hydrator into their routine.

One of the unsung heroes in the JBS lineup is definitely the iS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum. This lightweight, soothing formula is a game-changer for those with oily or breakout-prone skin who still crave hydration without the heaviness. It featured in our 2025 Holiday Gift Guide as the "simple-but-sexy stocking stuffer" because it genuinely caters to just about every skin type.

Myth 2: "Dry Skin Doesn't Cause Breakouts."

This myth catches many people off guard. Many clients with dry or flaky skin often believe that breakouts shouldn't occur for them, which couldn't be further from the truth.

The Reality: Dry, tight, thirsty skin is a common culprit behind congestion and inflammation. When your skin's barrier is worn down, it can go into overdrive, producing excess oil that gets trapped beneath that dry outer layer.

For those clients who are both dehydrated and prone to breakouts, I love introducing them to Face Reality's Hydrabalance. It's a gel-based hydrator that won't clog pores, yet delivers the hydration skin's been craving. When paired with a gentle exfoliant, those "mystery breakouts"often start to fade away.

Myth 3: "You Must Clean Your Face Immediately After Working Out."

This whole sweat panic? It creates more stress than it's worth. Sure, sweat can feel a bit unpleasant, but it won't harm your skin instantly.

The Reality: You really don't need to rush to the sink after every workout or every time you break a little sweat. Short bursts of sweating aren't the enemy. The real culprit? Overzealous cleansing that strips your skin of its natural barrier, making it more reactive.

Many of my busiest clients keep iS Clinical Cleansing Complex minis stashed in their gym bags or cars. It's a simple, gentle option for when they need a quick refresh - no rush, no over-cleansing, just a hassle-free cleanse.

Myth 4: "Expensive Products Are Always Better."

I have a deep appreciation for luxury skincare, but I truly value effective skincare even more. The most impressive results I witness in the studio often come from scientifically backed formulas, rather than those with hefty price tags.

Products should seamlessly fit into a personalized routine, rather than just being another trophy on a shelf. I've seen clients make amazing transformations with a simple trio: a hydrating serum, a solid barrier-focused moisturizer, and reliable SPF, none of which have to come with a steep price.

Brands like Face Reality and iS Clinical offer those hidden gems that can outshine their more extravagant competitors. One standout that my clients adore is the iS Clinical Eclipse SPF. It's clean, lightweight, and really emphasizes that innovative formulation wins over luxury marketing every time.

Myth 5: "You Can Shrink Your Pores."

If only.

Pore size is primarily determined by genetics, and unfortunately, no magic product can permanently shrink them.

The Reality: You can definitely make your pores look more refined and less noticeable. The key lies in reducing congestion, boosting collagen support, and protecting your skin from UV damage. That's where consistent treatments come into play.

Have you heard of the Active Peel System? It's the go-to recommendation for many people looking for a smoother, more refreshed appearance that can make pores seem smaller, without setting unrealistic expectations.

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TL;DR

Skincare isn't just about following the latest trends or using a ton of products; it's really about figuring out what your skin truly needs. With all the buzz out there, trendy treatments, endless myths, and so many routines, it can feel overwhelming. That's why having someone to help you navigate all the noise is so important.

If you're feeling confused about what actually works, what's essential, or what your skin is telling you, we're happy to help you decode it all.

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