Debunking the Biggest Skincare Myths With Lush's Skincare Ambassador

One refrain I hear often in the treatment room is the desire for “perfect skin”. 

We are in a heightened period of skin perfection or beauty standards and this causes lots of confusion when it comes to skincare routines. 

My name is Amity Murray, Lush skincare ambassador, and I am here to help dispel some common skincare myths as well as help you choose your skincare routine with confidence despite all the noise.

I have been an esthetician in New York City for the past 20 years, working with safe and effective products. Known for my “magic hands”, I help clients find ideal routines paired with the most nurturing and relaxing facial treatments.

We are bombarded with information at every turn, and this includes skincare products. I have spent 20 years touching faces and helping my clients achieve their skincare goals. My goal is to help break through the overwhelm and make skincare feel simpler with some practical advice.

There are a few reasons why things might feel more intense lately. We have more access to information. We are all walking around with tiny computers glued to our hands. We are flooded with marketing on social media, Instagram and TikTok. There is also an increased speed at which skincare companies are producing and marketing new products. Skincare is a billion dollar industry. Coupled with trend cycles, virality, and advice from influencers or other online non-experts, there is a lot of conflicting information around skincare. It’s not all inherently bad, but I want my clients to feel empowered and not pressured by their skincare choices. 

Myth 1: More Products Means Better Skin

A 10-step skincare routine is not for everyone. You need a daily routine that works for you and your skin. Focus on the basics first: cleansing, toning, moisturizing and sun protection. You can consider adding targeted products depending on your skin goals. Think about yourself, your lifestyle and what you will actually use before buying new products. I like to ask my clients if they are minimalist or maximalist when it comes to routines. Many of us are minimalist in our routines and you need to honor yourself when considering your skincare. Skincare can be simple and still be effective. The best skincare is skincare that you actually use daily — morning and night.

Myth 2: Viral Ingredients Work for Everyone

Not every ingredient and product is right for everyone. Everyone has their own unique skin and bodies. We have to think critically when it comes to viral or trending skincare advice. Consider the source you are learning information from. Skin doesn't need to follow a trend. Some of the most effective ingredients or treatments for skin come from ancient practices. Knowing yourself, your goals and your lifestyle will help guide you to the most optimal skincare choices.

Myth 3: Expensive Skincare Is Always Better

The price of skincare is another huge myth as some of the most expensive products are all about name recognition and marketing. Things to consider when purchasing products: their ingredients, how they are formulated, how they work and whether they address a genuine need for your skin. 

Myth 4: If You Don’t See Results Immediately, Your Skincare Isn’t Working

Realistically, it can take four to six weeks to see how a product works on your skin. Consistency does matter when using skincare because you cannot see how a product affects your skin without using it routinely. Your skincare goals will determine how you treat your skin and what products you will prioritize. Constantly changing products does not allow you to be able to see how a product works long term. And while it may take four to six weeks to start seeing the impacts, it can take three to six months before you start seeing the best results. Patience can be a big part of skincare especially if you are treating your skin with kindness. Healthy skin isn't an overnight project.

How Can You Tell if Skincare Advice Is Trustworthy?

We need to consider the source when getting information online. Is the person giving the advice an expert? Are they an esthetician, doctor or scientist? Or are they simply trying to sell us something? Another tactic often used in advertising is fear mongering. Are you being scared into buying something? Does the product seem too good to be true? Does it promise instant transformation? If so, most likely it’s a trend-driven scam. When deciding if you need something, you need to consider your skin, your goal and your lifestyle before adding to cart. Critical thinking is everything these days and, when in doubt, consult an expert! I spend lots of time in my treatments answering my clients’ burning questions about the latest trends.

What Does Your Skin Really Need?

Having a solid fundamental skincare routine is critical for healthy skin. Having the fundamentals down leaves room for more if needed. Again, the basics in an ideal routine are: cleansing, toning, moisturizing and sun protection. You can always add targeted treatments depending on your specific skin and your goals. Using skincare consistently is how it works best. Things to consider when thinking about your routine: how does your skin normally feel and act? How many steps realistically will you do daily both morning and night? How many products fit into your lifestyle and budget? Do you have any diagnosed skincare conditions? What are one or two priorities that you want to target with your routine? Do you have any allergies? Are you vegan? Are you pregnant or trying to conceive? Asking yourself these questions will help guide you to the best skincare choices for you. 

Healthy Skin Starts With Consistency, Not Perfection

Understanding yourself and your skin will help you make the most thoughtful skincare choices that you can stick with. Thinking critically about information will help you filter out the unnecessary junk. No one needs every new product. A multi-step routine only works if you use it consistently every day. Consistency is key with skincare. Perfect skin is a myth. Let go of perfection and seek to take good care of yourself, including your skin, as part of true self care.

By Amity Murray, Lush Skincare Ambassador