Skin Care Myths Smashed by Nashville Dermatology Physicians
Skin Care Myths Smashed by Nashville Dermatology Physicians
- posted: Sep. 29, 2025
Ready to clear the clutter from your skincare routine? Dr. Jeffrey Berti and Dr. Toula Berti, the physicians behind Nashville Dermatology Physicians, are discussing myth-busting wisdom. With their Mayo Clinic training and decades of experience, they’ve seen every skincare fad come and go. Here are 10 more myths they’re calling out to help you save time, money, and your glow. Let’s dive in!
The Myths!
1. You Should Wash Your Face Multiple Times a Day
Over-cleansing is a trap. “Twice daily—morning and night—is enough for most,” says Dr. Toula. “More than that strips your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness or breakouts.” Stick to a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type, and don’t fall for the “squeaky clean” myth—it’s a red flag! Opt for a gentle cleanser such as Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or La Roche Posay Toleriane gentle cleanser.
2. The More Products, the Better Your Skin
Think a 10-step routine is the key to gorgeous skin? Nope. “Layering too many products can irritate or overwhelm your skin,” Dr. Jeffrey warns. A cleanser, moisturizer, and one active (like retinol or vitamin C) are plenty for most. Quality over quantity—your skin isn’t a chemistry lab! If it is used by an influencer, chances are their next great lotion or potion is being talked about next week!
3. Sunscreen Is Only for Sunny Days
Cloudy skies don’t mean UV-free. “UVA rays, which age skin, are present year-round, even through clouds,” Dr. Berti explains. If planning a day outside do not skip the SPF on overcast days—your skin feels it later.
4. Hypoallergenic Means It Won’t Irritate
That “hypoallergenic” label sounds safe, but it’s not a guarantee. “It just means *less likely* to cause reactions, not zero risk,” says Dr. Jeffrey. Fragrances or plant extracts in these products can still trigger sensitive skin. A useful concept is to use a small quantitiy on a hidden area of your skin for at least a week prior to using on your face or all over. Also lean on dermatologist-recommended brands for peace of mind
5. You Can’t Use Retinol with Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin doesn’t mean retinol’s off-limits. “Start with a low concentration, like 0.025%, and use it twice a week,” Dr. Toula advises. Buffer with a simple gentle moisturizer to cut irritation. The Bertis say it’s a game-changer for anti-aging and acne—just ease in slowly.
6. Toners Are Essential for Clean Skin
Toners sound like a must, but they’re often just extra. “Modern cleansers do the job without needing a toner to ‘finish’ it,” Dr. Berti notes. Some alcohol-based toners even dry you out. If you love the ritual, pick a hydrating one with ingredients like rose water, but don’t stress—it’s optional.
7. Oily Skin Means You’re Hydrated
Shiny doesn’t equal hydrated. “Oily skin can still be dehydrated, causing it to overcompensate with more oil,” Dr. Toula says. Water-based serums with hyaluronic acid hydrate without greasiness. If your face feels tight post-wash but still looks oily, sometimes it is a sign of infection or an underlying issue. If you’re dehydrated—moisturize smart, pick a non-comedogenic moisturizer (one less likely to clog pores).
8. Sleeping in Makeup Is No Big Deal
We’ve all crashed with mascara on, but it’s not harmless. “Makeup traps dirt and oil, clogging pores and sparking breakouts,” Dr. Toula warns. Even worse, it can irritate eyes or cause styes. A quick cleanse at night keeps your skin drama-free, and who wants to sleep with chemicals all over your face? Our skin heals and rejuvenates as we sleep, so let’s respect the process!
9. Collagen Creams Rebuild Your Skin’s Collagen
Slathering on collagen sounds like an anti-aging win, but it’s a scam. “Collagen molecules are too big to penetrate skin,” Dr. Toula explains. Topical collagen might hydrate, but it won’t boost your skin’s own supply. Retinoids or vitamin C serums actually stimulate collagen production—go for those instead, combined with laser treatments is the best!
10. Acne Only Happens on Dirty Skin
Blaming breakouts on “dirty” skin is unfair. “Acne stems from hormones, genetics, or clogged pores—not just hygiene,” says Dr. Jeffrey. Overwashing can actually worsen it by disrupting your skin barrier. A balanced routine with medications specific to your acne is key, not scrubbing till you’re raw, guessing what is needed or asking a make up counter representative. It is time to get clear skin, making an appointment is the first step, our expertise combined with our promise to individualize your treatment plan specific to your skin and your needs, is the key to success.
Nashville Dermatology Physicians
1001 Health Park Dr. Suite 470
Brentwood, TN
Contact the office at 615.212.2517
Request an appointment: https://www.nashvilledermatologyphysicians.com/appointment
Skin Care Myths Smashed by Nashville Dermatology Physicians
- posted: Sep. 29, 2025
Ready to clear the clutter from your skincare routine? Dr. Jeffrey Berti and Dr. Toula Berti, the physicians behind Nashville Dermatology Physicians, are discussing myth-busting wisdom. With their Mayo Clinic training and decades of experience, they’ve seen every skincare fad come and go. Here are 10 more myths they’re calling out to help you save time, money, and your glow. Let’s dive in!
The Myths!
1. You Should Wash Your Face Multiple Times a Day
Over-cleansing is a trap. “Twice daily—morning and night—is enough for most,” says Dr. Toula. “More than that strips your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness or breakouts.” Stick to a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type, and don’t fall for the “squeaky clean” myth—it’s a red flag! Opt for a gentle cleanser such as Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser or La Roche Posay Toleriane gentle cleanser.
2. The More Products, the Better Your Skin
Think a 10-step routine is the key to gorgeous skin? Nope. “Layering too many products can irritate or overwhelm your skin,” Dr. Jeffrey warns. A cleanser, moisturizer, and one active (like retinol or vitamin C) are plenty for most. Quality over quantity—your skin isn’t a chemistry lab! If it is used by an influencer, chances are their next great lotion or potion is being talked about next week!
3. Sunscreen Is Only for Sunny Days
Cloudy skies don’t mean UV-free. “UVA rays, which age skin, are present year-round, even through clouds,” Dr. Berti explains. If planning a day outside do not skip the SPF on overcast days—your skin feels it later.
4. Hypoallergenic Means It Won’t Irritate
That “hypoallergenic” label sounds safe, but it’s not a guarantee. “It just means *less likely* to cause reactions, not zero risk,” says Dr. Jeffrey. Fragrances or plant extracts in these products can still trigger sensitive skin. A useful concept is to use a small quantitiy on a hidden area of your skin for at least a week prior to using on your face or all over. Also lean on dermatologist-recommended brands for peace of mind
5. You Can’t Use Retinol with Sensitive Skin
Sensitive skin doesn’t mean retinol’s off-limits. “Start with a low concentration, like 0.025%, and use it twice a week,” Dr. Toula advises. Buffer with a simple gentle moisturizer to cut irritation. The Bertis say it’s a game-changer for anti-aging and acne—just ease in slowly.
6. Toners Are Essential for Clean Skin
Toners sound like a must, but they’re often just extra. “Modern cleansers do the job without needing a toner to ‘finish’ it,” Dr. Berti notes. Some alcohol-based toners even dry you out. If you love the ritual, pick a hydrating one with ingredients like rose water, but don’t stress—it’s optional.
7. Oily Skin Means You’re Hydrated
Shiny doesn’t equal hydrated. “Oily skin can still be dehydrated, causing it to overcompensate with more oil,” Dr. Toula says. Water-based serums with hyaluronic acid hydrate without greasiness. If your face feels tight post-wash but still looks oily, sometimes it is a sign of infection or an underlying issue. If you’re dehydrated—moisturize smart, pick a non-comedogenic moisturizer (one less likely to clog pores).
8. Sleeping in Makeup Is No Big Deal
We’ve all crashed with mascara on, but it’s not harmless. “Makeup traps dirt and oil, clogging pores and sparking breakouts,” Dr. Toula warns. Even worse, it can irritate eyes or cause styes. A quick cleanse at night keeps your skin drama-free, and who wants to sleep with chemicals all over your face? Our skin heals and rejuvenates as we sleep, so let’s respect the process!
9. Collagen Creams Rebuild Your Skin’s Collagen
Slathering on collagen sounds like an anti-aging win, but it’s a scam. “Collagen molecules are too big to penetrate skin,” Dr. Toula explains. Topical collagen might hydrate, but it won’t boost your skin’s own supply. Retinoids or vitamin C serums actually stimulate collagen production—go for those instead, combined with laser treatments is the best!
10. Acne Only Happens on Dirty Skin
Blaming breakouts on “dirty” skin is unfair. “Acne stems from hormones, genetics, or clogged pores—not just hygiene,” says Dr. Jeffrey. Overwashing can actually worsen it by disrupting your skin barrier. A balanced routine with medications specific to your acne is key, not scrubbing till you’re raw, guessing what is needed or asking a make up counter representative. It is time to get clear skin, making an appointment is the first step, our expertise combined with our promise to individualize your treatment plan specific to your skin and your needs, is the key to success.
Nashville Dermatology Physicians
1001 Health Park Dr. Suite 470
Brentwood, TN
Contact the office at 615.212.2517
Request an appointment: https://www.nashvilledermatologyphysicians.com/appointment
Nashville Dermatology Physicians
1001 Health Park Drive Suite 470,
Brentwood, TN 37027
Monday
7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Tuesday
7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Wednesday
7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Thursday
11:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday
Closed
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed