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As we move into 2025, let’s leave behind outdated myths and embrace evidence-based, gentle, and effective practices that truly stand the test of time.
As dermatology increasingly blends clinical research with everyday routines, 2025 is the year to question outdated habits
Skincare is often shaped by tradition, trends, and the promise of shortcuts. Some practices are passed down as rituals, while others gain momentum through social media hacks. But science shows that not all “age-old wisdom” stands the test of time. In fact, some habits can silently damage the skin, leaving people frustrated and confused.
As dermatology increasingly blends clinical research with everyday routines, 2025 is the year to question outdated habits. Dr. Anindita Sarkar, Chief Medical Officer, Clinikally shares five skincare myths best left behind and the science-backed alternatives to embrace instead.
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DIY Lemon Juice Masks for Brightening
The belief: Applying lemon juice directly on the skin can fade dark spots and give an instant glow.
The fact: Citrus is highly acidic and disrupts the skin barrier, leading to irritation, chemical burns, and photosensitivity. With advanced brightening agents like niacinamide, stabilized vitamin C derivatives, and tranexamic acid now widely available and clinically validated, turning to raw lemon juice is not only outdated but unsafe. It’s time to shift from DIY fixes to dermatologist-approved solutions backed by science.
Toothpaste for Pimples
The belief: Dabbing toothpaste on a pimple will “dry it out” overnight.
The fact: While this hack became popular in the ’90s and early 2000s, toothpaste formulas contain ingredients like fluoride and sodium lauryl sulfate that can inflame skin, trigger allergic reactions, and worsen acne scars. Today, we understand acne as a multifactorial condition shaped by genetics, hormones, diet, stress, and the skin microbiome. The future lies in personalization, whether through prescription retinoids, hormonal therapies, or in-clinic treatments like light therapy and microneedling.
Oil as Sunscreen
The belief: Natural oils such as coconut, olive, or sesame protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
The fact: Oils may hydrate, but they lack the broad-spectrum protection needed against UVA and UVB damage. Some oils even intensify UV penetration, worsening pigmentation and premature aging. Sunscreens today go beyond UV protection, offering lightweight textures, hybrid formulas, and filters that also shield against blue light and pollution. Oils belong in the realm of nourishment, not defense.
Harsh Physical Scrubs for Exfoliation
The belief: Coarse scrubs with crushed walnut shells, apricot kernels, or salt are the best way to slough off dead skin.
The fact: Gritty scrubs often cause micro-tears, redness, and long-term barrier damage. Modern chemical exfoliants like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs gently dissolve dead skin cells instead of scraping them away. These agents offer precise, controlled exfoliation tailored to skin type and concern, whether tackling acne, dullness, pigmentation, or fine lines. The future of exfoliation is less about aggression and more about precision.
“The More Products, The Better” Routine
The belief: Layering multiple products and following elaborate 10–12-step routines guarantees healthier skin.
The fact: Skin thrives on balance, not excess. Overloading with multiple actives often leads to irritation, sensitivity, and what dermatologists now call “skincare fatigue.” In 2025, minimalism leads the way: streamlined regimens built on four essentials, cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen, and one targeted treatment (like a retinoid or antioxidant). The shift is from abundance to intention, proving that less truly delivers more.
Skincare is evolving, and so should our routines. Respecting tradition doesn’t mean clinging to practices that science has outgrown. As we move into 2025, let’s leave behind outdated myths and embrace evidence-based, gentle, and effective practices that truly stand the test of time.
About the Author
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
September 22, 2025, 07:58 IST
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