Most of us grew up hearing things like "apply besan and turmeric and your skin will glow" or "oily skin does not need moisturiser." Skincare advice in India has been passed down through generations, and while some of it holds value, a lot of it is simply not true. The problem is that when people follow wrong advice for years, their skin ends up paying the price whether it is pigmentation that refuses to go, acne that keeps coming back, or skin that looks dull no matter what they do. Let us break down the most common skincare myths that are still doing the rounds in Indian households and clear the air around what actually works.
The first and probably most widespread myth is that home remedies are always safe. Lemon juice, baking soda, toothpaste, raw onion people use all of this on their faces thinking natural means harmless. But that is not how skin works. Lemon is highly acidic and can cause burns, especially in India where sun exposure is already intense. Baking soda strips the skin's natural barrier. These things may look effective for a day or two but they quietly cause long-term damage that shows up later as sensitivity, dark patches, or even scarring. If your skin is reacting to something, or if you have been using home remedies for months without results, it is time to see a proper dermatologist. Doctors in Delhi who specialise in skin conditions see hundreds of such cases every year where patients come in after making things worse at home.
The second big myth is that Indians do not need sunscreen because our skin has more melanin. This is completely false. Melanin does offer a small amount of natural protection, but it does not block UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure without protection leads to pigmentation, tanning, early ageing, and in some cases skin cancer. Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 or higher every single day not just when you are stepping out, but even indoors near windows. Sunscreen is not a luxury. It is the most basic and most effective skincare step you can take.
Another myth that refuses to die is the idea that oily skin should be dried out. People with oily skin often scrub hard, use harsh soaps, and skip moisturiser because they think moisture will make things worse. What actually happens is the opposite. When you strip your skin of its natural oils too aggressively, it produces even more oil to compensate. Oily skin still needs hydration just the right kind. A lightweight, water-based moisturiser does the job without clogging pores. Treatment in Delhi for acne-prone and oily skin now focuses more on balancing the skin rather than drying it out, and the results are far better.
Then there is the myth around fairness. Skin lightening creams, pills, and "glow injections" are a massive industry in India. Many of these products contain steroids, mercury, or hydroquinone in unsafe concentrations. People use them for months and see some quick results, which reinforces the habit. But long-term use leads to thinning of the skin, increased sensitivity, hormonal issues, and in some cases permanent damage. A good clinic in Delhi will always advise against self-medicating with over-the-counter whitening creams and instead focus on treating the root cause of pigmentation whether it is sun damage, melasma, or post-inflammatory marks in a way that is safe and sustainable.
One more thing that needs to be addressed is the myth that acne only affects teenagers. Adult acne is extremely common, especially in women, and it is largely driven by hormones, stress, diet, and lifestyle. Popping pimples at home, applying toothpaste or ice directly, or using random products from social media will not fix the root issue. Acne that is recurring, cystic, or leaving marks behind needs professional attention.
If you are dealing with any of these concerns whether it is pigmentation, acne, oily skin, or just general dullness the right move is always to consult a qualified dermatologist rather than trying fix after fix at home. For those in and around the capital, Dadu Medical Centre is a trusted name in dermatology, offering evidence-based skin treatments handled by experienced specialists.
FAQs
1. Can I use turmeric and besan on my face daily?
Ans. It is not advisable. Long-term use can irritate skin and cause sensitivity, especially for those with already reactive or acne-prone skin.
2. Does sunscreen make the skin darker if not washed off properly?
Ans. No, sunscreen does not darken skin. Skipping sunscreen is what causes tanning and pigmentation over time.
3. Is it okay to pop a pimple if it has a visible whitehead?
Ans. It is best to avoid it. Popping pimples can push bacteria deeper and leave behind dark marks or scars that are harder to treat.
4. Do I really need a moisturiser if my skin already feels oily?
Ans. Yes. Oily skin still needs moisture. Skipping it can make your skin produce more oil, which worsens the problem.
5. How long does it take to see results from professional skin treatment?
Ans. Most skin treatments take four to twelve weeks to show visible results depending on the condition being treated.