Does squeakier mean cleaner, and do DIY skincare hacks work? Dr. Irene Robredo-Vitas says no, and tackles all the things Filipinas need to forget
There’s no shortage of skincare advice nowadays, especially with the dawn of the digital. It’s a sea of “miracle” solutions as generational practices and even viral trends often muddy the waters. But how do you separate fact from fiction when everyone seems like an expert? Here, trusted dermatologist and digital creator Dr. Irene Robredo-Vitas does it for us, debunking six common skincare myths you have to let go of before the new year.
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Myth 1: Lighter Skin Equals Better Skin
Growing up, many of us were taught that fair skin was the standard of beauty—otherwise, what else is that bright orange bar of soap sitting in your bathroom for?
Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Irene Robredo-Vitas shares that it heralds back generations ago. “This belief has led many Filipinos to pursue skin-lightening treatments and products, often at the expense of their skin health,” she shared. “I debunk this by emphasizing the importance of healthy skin over skin color.”
The truth: Skin health is where the focus should be—not skin color. Let go of societal pressures and celebrate the skin you’re in.
Myth 2: The Squeakier, the Cleaner
It’s easy to fall victim to the scrubbing-till-squeaky-clean agenda, thinking that by doing so, you’re doing your skin a favor. However, that tight, dry feeling you get after can actually be a sign of skin damage, not a clean face.
“This can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and a compromised skin barrier,” the dermatologist explained. “I educate my audience on the importance of gentle cleansing and maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance to promote overall skin health.”
The truth: Gentle cleansing is key. Opt for mild cleansers that purify your skin without drying it out.
Myth 3: Acne is (Only) a Hygiene Issue
We’ve all been told, at some point, that acne is just a result of not washing your face enough. But the truth is, acne is far more complicated than simple hygiene. “The misconception that acne is solely due to poor hygiene can lead to over-washing and the use of harsh products, exacerbating the condition,” the expert explained.
So, it’s not all about the weekly changing of sheets and changing your diet. Dr. Robredo-Vitas works to quell these misconceptions by explaining the true cause of acne and recommending evidence-based treatments. If it isn’t already clear, turning to experts is your best bet.
The truth: Acne isn’t a reflection of how often you wash your face. Focus on understanding your skin and its needs, as the condition could be due to your hormones and genetics, among others.
Myth 4: DIY Skincare Will Save the Day
Growing up, many Filipinos were told that a little calamansi and toothpaste could fix everything—from dark spots and acne to dull skin. The idea of using these ingredients sounds like an easy, budget-friendly solution, but not everything that’s natural is safe for your skin.
“While some natural ingredients can be beneficial, others can cause irritation, burns, or worsen skin conditions,” Dr. Robredo-Vitas warned. She thus works to highlight the potential dangers of DIY treatments and encourages her audience to seek expert advice before trying viral, unproven remedies.
The truth: Natural isn’t always better. Some DIY remedies can do more harm than good, so it’s best to seek professional advice instead of heeding word-of-mouths and what random Facebook quotes say would work on your skin woes.
Myth 5: Stronger Products Mean Faster Results
It’s tempting to believe that if your face doesn’t sting after using a certain product, then it doesn’t work. But Dr. Robredo-Vitas is quick to point out: “This can lead to the misuse of potent ingredients, resulting in irritation, barrier damage, and long-term skin issues.”
This also translates to laying low on layering actives. You don’t need that many salicylic and hyaluronic acids, retinol, and niacinamide in one go.
The truth: Slow and steady wins the skincare race. If you feel like you have to endure pain for beauty, you’re on the wrong track. Give products time to work.
Myth 6: Dermatologists are a Luxury
Another common myth is that seeing a dermatologist is a luxury reserved for those with money to burn. But when it comes to your skin, cutting corners can be costly, and you might end up spending more on products that don’t work or even cause harm.
“There is this reluctance that can stem from the perception that dermatological consultations are expensive or unnecessary,” the dermatologist explained. “I highlight the importance of seeking professional advice for skin issues and emphasize that dermatologists provide personalized, evidence-based care that can save you time and resources.”
The truth: Consulting a dermatologist is an investment. Professional advice can save you time, money, and, most importantly, your skin.
Skincare advice is everywhere, but not all of it is good. By getting on social media platforms for educational purposes, Dr. Irene Robredo-Vitas acts on the responsibility to counteract misinformation in skincare by providing credible information.
“Having an online presence also humanizes the field of dermatology,” she said. “It makes us more accessible to people who might otherwise feel intimidated or unsure about seeking professional advice.” And accessible they are, offering the kind of advice that leads to real results, not just the next viral trend.
Featured Image and Photos: MEGA ARCHIVES
