The beauty industry is filled with helpful advice, but it can also be a minefield of misinformation. From the superiority of natural ingredients to controversial facial washes, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of skin care advice.
I’ll debunk some common skin care myths and unravel the truth behind each.
Myth #1: Sunscreen Is Only for Sunny Days
How often have you heard that you only need sun protection if you go outside on a hot, sunny day? This is not true, as sun damage is caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, not heat.
This means it’s wise to wear sunscreen daily, whether it’s hot or cloudy outside, even if you’re indoors. Sun damage can cause sunburn, sun allergy, premature skin aging and even skin cancer.
Do the following to protect your skin from harmful UV rays:
● Wear sunscreen: Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for better protection. If you’re going outdoors, use a product with SPF 60 or higher. Apply about half a teaspoon of sunscreen to protect your face and neck.
● Wear protective gear: Invest in a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses that provide UV protection. Wear long sleeves and use an umbrella when going outdoors.
● Seek shade: Spend time indoors or in shaded locations when it’s too hot outside. The UV index is a handy tool to help you take steps to reduce your UV radiation exposure.
Myth #2: Squeaky-Clean Skin Is Good
Cleansing is the first step in any skin care regimen. While it might seem satisfying to cleanse your face until it feels squeaky clean, professionals say it’s a sign of over-cleansing. According to Dr. Madhuri Agarwal via Vogue, this process can strip your skin of its natural oils, which are essential for proper skin barrier function.
What’s the correct way to cleanse? It starts with finding the right cleanser for your skin type:
● Normal skin: If you don’t experience dryness or oiliness, use a gel or cream-based cleanser.
● Oily, combination and acne-prone skin: Choose a foamy cleanser to remove the dirt and oil buildup that may clog your pores.
● Sensitive skin: Your skin is sensitive if it gets irritated easily. To protect your skin barrier, choose a gentle cleanser without exfoliating properties. Always opt for alcohol- and fragrance-free products.
Myth #3: Oily Skin Doesn’t Need Moisturizing
Oily skin requires hydration just as much as dry skin. Hydration is essential for protecting and repairing skin from harmful environmental forces. Lotions and gels are water-based moisturizers, making them ideal for people with oily or acne-prone skin. It’s best to apply the product when your face is still slightly damp to help trap water.
Myth #4: Natural Ingredients Are Always Better
Natural ingredients are good for the skin. However, this doesn’t mean that chemicals are less effective. Labels like “clean” and “natural” are unregulated and can cause allergic reactions. In fact, organic ingredients like jasmine and clove oil were included in the list of frequently reported allergens. This can be a problem if you have sensitive skin. It’s crucial to research and do a patch test before incorporating a natural skin care product into your routine.
Myth #5: Popping Pimples Speeds up Healing
We’re all guilty of popping pimples. At some point, you couldn’t resist the urge to pop it. However, the claim that this practice expedites healing is a misconception — and potentially harmful.
If you’re worried about having a huge zit on your face, visit a dermatologist for proper acne extraction. This could reduce the likelihood of permanent acne scars and infection. Another idea is to get your hands off your active pimples and allow them to heal naturally.
Myth #6: Pores Open and Close
Pores are tiny openings that release sweat, oil and toxins. You can steam or cover your face with a warm compress, but these holes will never expand or shrink. Some treatments claim to minimize the appearance of pores, but none will provide permanent results. The truth is you can’t get rid of open pores, but there are ways to reduce their look, including facial masks, proper exfoliation and noninvasive laser treatments.
Embrace Effective Routines
Now that you know some of the most persistent skin care misconceptions, you can create a more effective routine that works. The best way to find what works for you is to listen to your skin, visit your dermatologist and avoid falling for these myths.
// Mia Barnes, Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine
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