12 Skin Cancer & Dermatology Myths - And the Real Science Behind Them

Every day, patients come into Clinic 5C with questions shaped by what they’ve seen on social media, beauty blogs, or product ads.

Some of those tips are helpful, but many are myths that can quietly damage your skin or waste your time and money.

To set the record straight, our resident Liberty Lake and Spokane Dermatologist, Desiree Barclift, PA-C, shares what’s true, what’s not, and what you should really focus on for healthy, radiant skin.

Myth 1: You don’t need sunscreen on cloudy days.

The truth: Up to 80 percent of UV rays still penetrate cloud cover. “Even when Spokane skies are gray, ultraviolet light is reaching your skin,” explains Desiree. “Daily sunscreen is the single most effective anti-aging and skin-cancer prevention step you can take.”‍

Tip From the Pros: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning. Yes, this even includes in the winter.

Myth 2: Natural or organic products are always better.

The truth: Natural ingredients can be powerful, but could also be irritating or allergenic. What matters is formulation, testing, and how a product interacts with your unique skin barrier.

Look for science-backed, dermatologist-tested lines instead of buzzwords.

Tip From the Pros: Spot test any new products on the back of your hand or in an inconspicuous spot before testing on a larger area.

Myth 3: If a product tingles or burns, it’s working.

The truth: Stinging usually signals irritation, not effectiveness. Gentle consistency always beats aggressive exfoliation. When your barrier is damaged, even your favorite products can trigger redness or breakouts.

Tip From the Pros: Stick with the tried-and-true products, even if they are "boring." Consistency is best to see results!

Myth 4: The more you wash your face, the clearer it will be.

The truth: Over-cleansing strips natural and protective oils from your skin and increases inflammation. Cleanse twice daily with a mild, pH-balanced formula. Avoid harsh scrubs that can worsen acne or rosacea.

Tip From the Pros: Use abrasive scrubs or harsh-stripping ingredients sparingly, not on a daily basis.

Myth 5: Moisturizer prevents wrinkles.

The truth: Hydration makes fine lines less visible, but true wrinkle prevention comes from UV protection, retinoids, and lifestyle habits (think sleep, stress, and nutrition).

Tip From the Pros: Wear sunscreen every day!

Myth 6: Expensive products always work better.

The truth: Price doesn’t guarantee potency. Some drugstore formulas use the same active ingredients as luxury brands. What really matters is concentration, stability, and using the right product for your skin type.

Read More: Drugstore Skincare Swaps that Actually Work

Myth 7: Botox freezes your face.

The truth: When done correctly, Botox softens movement while keeping natural expression. “At Clinic 5C, we aim for subtle, undetectable results,” Desiree says. “You’ll look rested, not frozen.” Early preventive treatment can also reduce the depth of lines over time.

Myth 8: You can shrink your pores permanently.

The truth: Pore size is genetic. Treatments can minimize their appearance, but nothing closes them for good. A consistent regimen of retinoids, exfoliation, and sunscreen can help pores appear smaller by keeping them clear and elastic.

Tip From the Pros: Don't go to sleep without washing your face first! Letting dirt and oil sit on your face overnight can keep those pore clogged, which is not what we want to happen.

Myth 9: Only older adults get skin cancer.

The truth: Skin cancer affects all ages. Increasingly, dermatologists diagnose melanoma in patients in their 20s and 30s. Routine skin checks build lifelong awareness and allow early treatment, when outcomes are best.

Book Your Annual Skin Check with Clinic 5C Dermatology in Liberty Lake Today. (It takes only 10 minutes!)

Myth 10: Darker skin doesn’t get skin cancer.

The truth: While melanin offers some natural protection, no skin tone is immune. In fact, skin cancers in darker complexions are often detected later, making them more dangerous. Everyone benefits from routine screenings and daily SPF.

Tip From the Pros: No matter who you are, come see our expert Liberty Lake and Spokane Dermatologists for your annual skin cancer screening.

Myth 11: Skin cancer always looks like a dark mole.

The truth: Cancer can appear as pink patches, new growths, sores that don’t heal, or subtle texture changes. “Anything new, changing, or bleeding deserves a professional look,” says Desiree. “When in doubt, schedule a skin exam.”

Myth 12: The Pacific Northwest sun isn’t strong enough to cause damage.

The truth: Spokane and Coeur d’Alene receive significant UV exposure, even through cloud cover and snow glare. “We see plenty of sun damage here,” Desiree notes. “The cooler air just makes it harder to notice.” Protective habits year-round matter.

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