When it comes to skincare, myths can be as harmful as the issues they claim to solve. With the rise of beauty influencers and viral hacks, misinformation spreads quickly, leaving many with damaged skin and false hope.
As we navigate 2025, it’s time to debunk the most common skincare myths with science-backed facts and expert insight from Allure Laser, Skin and Aesthetic Medicine Centre—Kenya’s trusted destination for skin health and aesthetic care.
Myth 1: Acne Only Affects Teenagers
The truth: Acne is not limited to adolescents. Adult acne is incredibly common, especially among women in their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. Hormonal fluctuations, stress, medications, and certain cosmetics can all trigger breakouts. Additionally, purging—breakouts that occur when you introduce a new skincare product—is often misdiagnosed as acne.
Allure insight: We treat adult acne through personalized dermatological consultations, medical-grade facials, chemical peels, and targeted treatments suited for mature skin.
Myth 2: All Alcohols in Skincare Are Harmful
The truth: There are different types of alcohol in skincare—some are drying, others are beneficial.
Bad alcohols like denatured alcohol, SD alcohol 40, and isopropyl alcohol can strip your skin, compromise the skin barrier, and cause irritation.
Good alcohols like cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and cetearyl alcohol are known as fatty alcohols. These hydrate and soften the skin, acting as emollients that improve texture and moisture retention.
Allure tip: Don’t write off a product just because it contains “alcohol.” Look at the full INCI (ingredient) list or consult with our skincare specialists to understand its effects on your skin type.
Myth 3: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizer
The truth: Skipping moisturizer can make oily skin worse. When your skin feels dry, it compensates by producing even more oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts.
Use lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic moisturizers that hydrate without clogging pores. Ingredients like hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and glycerin help balance oil production while strengthening the skin barrier.
Allure recommendation: We help clients with oily skin find the right moisturizers and combine them with balancing treatments like salicylic acid facials and hydra-dermabrasion.
Myth 4: Higher SPF Means Stronger Protection
The truth: SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Anything higher offers only minimal added protection. What really matters is how you apply it.
To maximize your sunscreen’s effectiveness:
Use about two finger-lengths for your face
Reapply every two hours
Choose broad-spectrum formulas that protect against UVA and UVB rays
Allure tip: Never skip sunscreen, even when indoors or during cloudy weather. We offer skin-safe sunscreens suitable for all skin tones, including formulations that leave no white cast.
Myth 5: A Longer Skincare Routine Is Better
The truth: A longer routine does not mean better results. In fact, too many products can overwhelm your skin, cause irritation, or even disrupt your natural barrier.
A minimalist routine with three to four well-formulated products is often more effective than a 10-step regimen. Essential steps include:
Cleanser
Treatment serum or active
Moisturizer
Sunscreen (daytime)
Allure approach: Our skincare consultations help clients cut through the clutter and build customized routines based on skin type, concern, and lifestyle.
Myth 6: Double Cleansing Is Only for Makeup Wearers
The truth: Double cleansing benefits everyone, not just those who wear makeup. Pollution, sunscreen, excess oil, and sweat can accumulate on your skin daily—even if you don’t wear makeup.
The double cleanse method includes:
First cleanse: An oil-based or micellar cleanser to dissolve sunscreen, oils, and dirt.
Second cleanse: A gentle water-based cleanser to remove remaining debris and prep your skin for actives.
Allure recommendation: Double cleansing can improve skin clarity, reduce breakouts, and enhance absorption of active ingredients. We recommend this routine especially for clients living in urban areas like Nairobi and Mombasa.
Building an Effective Skincare Routine with Allure
A strong skincare routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a basic, dermatologist-approved template:
Morning Routine:
Gentle Cleanser
Antioxidant Serum (like Vitamin C)
Moisturizer with hydrating ingredients
Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 or higher
Evening Routine:
Double Cleanse
Retinoid or targeted serum
Barrier-repair moisturizer
Weekly Add-ons:
Exfoliate 1–2x/week (AHAs or BHAs)
Mask or hydration booster as needed
At Allure Laser, Skin and Aesthetic Medicine Centre, we offer medical-grade skincare and in-clinic treatments that work in harmony with your at-home routine.
Why Trust Allure for Skincare in Kenya?
We specialize in ethnic skin tones and common Kenyan skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, and sun damage.
Allure offers premium skincare brands including Mesoestetic, SkinCeuticals, and ISDIN.
Our clinics in Nairobi-Karen and Mombasa are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and aesthetic technologies.
Every product and treatment we recommend is science-backed and dermatologist-approved.
Ready to Upgrade Your Routine?
Avoid the traps of skincare myths and get real, personalized solutions that work. Whether you’re struggling with acne, dryness, aging, or just want clearer skin, Allure is here to help.
📅 Book your consultation today: https://www.allurekenya.com/appointment-booking/
📍 Visit us in Nairobi-Karen or Mombasa
🌐 Explore our skincare range: https://allure.co.ke
Allure Laser, Skin and Aesthetic Medicine Centre
Where science meets beauty. Skincare that works—for every skin.