The Funniest Skincare Myths Patients Told Me

The Funniest Skincare Myths Patients Told Me

Being a dermatologist means I hear all kinds of skin stories—some serious, some worrying, and some that honestly make me smile. Over the years, patients have shared skincare “tips” passed down from friends, relatives, and WhatsApp forwards. Many of these are myths, and while they can sometimes cause harm, they’re also so unique that you can’t help but laugh a little.

Here are a few of the funniest skincare myths patients have told me:

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1. “Doctor, toothpaste se pimple jaldi dry ho jaata hai.”

Yes, I’ve had patients proudly say they used toothpaste overnight on pimples. It may dry the skin but also causes irritation and burns. Pimples need treatment, not Colgate!

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2. “Fairness cream se rishta pakka ho jaata hai.”

Some young patients genuinely believed that fairness creams are the key to marriage proposals. I always tell them—healthy, glowing skin is better than chasing “fairness.” Confidence is the real beauty.

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3. “Dahi lagane se skin thandi ho jaati hai aur fungus mar jaata hai.”

Curd has its place—in your plate, not on fungal infections. I had one patient applying dahi daily on itchy patches thinking it would “cool” the skin. Instead, the fungus was having a party!

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4. “Doctor, shampoo zyada mehenga hoga to dandruff turant khatam ho jaayega.”

Many think dandruff depends on the price tag of shampoo. Reality? Even the most expensive shampoo won’t work if it’s not the right medicated one for your scalp condition.

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5. “Neem leaf sir pe baandh lo, hair fall band ho jaayega.”

One college student came with neem leaves tied on his head (yes, literally!) after his friends told him it will stop hair fall. He just gave me a sheepish smile when I explained otherwise.

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6. “If you drink 8 glasses of water in one go, acne will disappear.”

Hydration helps skin, but flooding your stomach in one sitting doesn’t cure acne. Balance is key, not extremes.

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7. “Doctor, sunscreen sirf shaadi wale din lagana chahiye.”

A very sweet aunty once said she thought sunscreen was a “makeup item” reserved for weddings and special occasions. Imagine her surprise when I explained it’s an everyday essential!

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Why I Share These Myths

I don’t share these to make fun of anyone—rather, to show how common (and creative!) these beliefs are. Skincare myths spread fast in families, friend circles, and now even faster on social media. The important thing is to laugh, learn, and replace these myths with real solutions.

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✨ Final Word

If you’ve ever believed in one of these myths, don’t worry—you’re not alone! The best step is to ask your dermatologist before trying anything new on your skin. Sometimes the funniest advice is also the most dangerous.

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