Filipinas love beauty — from skincare routines to TikTok hacks to long-standing “turo ng lola.” But not everything we hear is actually true.
Some popular beauty beliefs could be the reason your skin isn’t improving, or worse, getting damaged.
Here are the top beauty myths Filipinas should stop believing — and the real science behind them.
1. “Pimples come from eating oily food.”
This is the most common myth in the Philippines.
Fact:
Acne is caused by:
- hormones
- genetics
- clogged pores
- bacteria
- stress
Food can influence acne, but oil from fried chicken or chicharon does not directly cause pimples.
Better advice:
Limit sugary food, milk, and highly processed snacks — these trigger acne more than “oily food.”
2. “The whiter the skin, the better.”
A cultural myth that still affects many Filipinas.
Fact:
Skin color has nothing to do with beauty or health.
Having a lighter complexion does not mean your skin is healthier.
Better advice:
Focus on:
- sunscreen
- a strong moisture barrier
- healthy lifestyle
Clear, glowing skin > white skin.
3. “You only need sunscreen when it’s sunny.”
Nope.
Fact:
UV rays pass through:
- clouds
- windows
- tinted cars
You get sun exposure even when it’s rainy or indoors.
Better advice:
Apply sunscreen every day, especially in the Philippines’ tropical climate.
4. “More skincare products = better results.”
A 10-step routine is not always good for Filipina skin.
Fact:
Too many products can lead to:
- irritation
- redness
- breakouts
- damaged skin barrier
Better advice:
Stick to the basics:
- Cleanser
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- (Optional) Treatment serum
Simple > complicated.
5. “Lemon, toothpaste, or baking soda can lighten the skin.”
Please stop doing this.
Fact:
These DIY remedies are too harsh and can:
- burn the skin
- cause dark spots
- damage the moisture barrier
- make your face sensitive
Better advice:
Use niacinamide, vitamin C, retinol, or gentle exfoliants for brightening.
6. “If it stings, it means it’s working.”
This myth makes people think pain = effectiveness.
Fact:
Stinging usually means:
- irritation
- damaged barrier
- too strong active ingredients
Better advice:
Your skincare should feel comfortable.
If it stings, stop using it.
7. “Natural ingredients are always safer.”
Not always true.
Fact:
Many “natural” ingredients can cause:
- allergies
- irritation
- breakouts
Examples:
- coconut oil (clogs pores)
- calamansi (acidic, can burn skin)
- aloe vera (not for everyone)
Better advice:
Patch test everything — natural or not.
8. “You don’t need moisturizer if you have oily skin.”
Oily skin still needs water.
Fact:
Skipping moisturizer can make your skin produce even more oil.
Better advice:
Use a gel-type, lightweight moisturizer.
The Bottom Line
Filipina skin deserves science-backed care — not old myths or random online trends. Understanding what truly works will help you build routines that keep your skin healthy, glowing, and confident.
And remember… your beauty, your choice. Coz Why Not?
