Skin Myths That Are Still Popular in Small Towns

Skin Myths That Are Still Popular in Small Towns

Even in today’s social media age, old skin-care “nuskhe” and myths still rule many small towns. While some traditional tips do have a scientific base, many are just passed down without proof — and can even harm your skin. Let’s bust a few of the most common ones.

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1. “Fair skin means healthy skin.”

Many people still believe that fairness equals beauty and health. In reality, skin colour depends on genetics, not health. Even wheatish or dark skin can be perfectly healthy and glowing if cared for well. The focus should be on skin health, not shade.

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2. “Haldi and besan cure all skin problems.”

Yes, turmeric and gram flour have benefits, but they are not a cure for acne, pigmentation, or eczema. Overuse can even cause irritation or contact allergies in some people. They are home remedies, not medical treatments.

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3. “If it burns, it’s working.”

From lemon juice to toothpaste on pimples — many people believe a burning sensation means the remedy is effective. Truth is, burning often means skin damage. The acid or chemicals may irritate, inflame, and worsen the problem.

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4. “Oil your hair daily to stop hair fall.”

Hair oiling is good for conditioning the hair shaft, but daily heavy oiling can clog pores and worsen dandruff or scalp acne. Hair fall is usually due to nutritional, hormonal, or medical reasons, not just lack of oil.

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5. “Only women need skincare.”

In many towns, men think skincare is “ladies’ work.” The truth is — skin is skin, whether male or female. Men too need sun protection, moisturization, and treatment for issues like acne or pigmentation.

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6. “Sunscreen is only for summers or beaches.”

UV rays damage the skin year-round. Even in winters or indoors (near windows), UV exposure can lead to premature ageing, pigmentation, and even skin cancer. Skipping sunscreen is one of the biggest skincare mistakes.

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7. “Scrub daily to get glowing skin.”

Over-scrubbing can strip the skin’s natural oils, cause micro-tears, and trigger more breakouts. Exfoliation should be gentle and not more than 1–2 times a week for most skin types.

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✅ Bottom line:

Healthy skin comes from a mix of scientifically proven care, a balanced diet, sun protection, and timely medical advice — not just from what “nani” or “neighbour aunty” says. It’s okay to respect traditional wisdom, but it’s even better to update it with modern science.

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