Debunking the Most Common Myths About Skincare
When I use social media, I sometimes see random people giving false information about skincare. And trust me, it’s hard to detect which information is false and which is true. In the past, I also believed many of those false pieces of information and acted accordingly. That’s why I don’t want you to fall into the same trap. So I want to publish GLOW YOUR LOOK’s first article on skincare myths. In this article, I aim to debunk the 21 most common skincare myths and provide accurate skincare advice. So, let’s jump into the article to gain some accurate knowledge about skincare.
1. Expensive products are always better than cheaper ones – Myth
If you believe this, don’t think you are the only one. Many people believe this, even I did in the past. But it is not true. The price of a product doesn’t determine its effectiveness. The effectiveness of a skin product is determined by the quality of its ingredients and formula. Factors like brand reputation, marketing, and packaging can increase the cost without improving the formula.
2. Tanned skin is healthy – Myth
Skin tans to protect itself from the sun. Tanned skin simply means your skin has been damaged, and it can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
3. Lips do not sunburn – Myth
Just like skin, lips can be damaged by UV rays. Lip skin is more sensitive than the face or other parts of the skin, so lips can be damaged more easily. Always protect your lips with SPF protection.
4. Only teenagers get acne – Myth
Acne occurs at all ages. While puberty often triggers acne in teens, many types of acne can occur later in life. Even some of my relatives over the age of 28 still get acne because the same conditions that exist in teen skin can continue well into adulthood.
5. Dermatologist tested makes a product trustworthy – Myth
“Dermatologist Tested” is not an official certification; it’s just a marketing slogan. Legally, this means that at least one dermatologist tested the product, but it doesn’t mean the FDA (Food and Drug Administration of the U.S.), the AAD (American Academy of Dermatology), or any other organization endorses the product. Be wary of this claim if you cannot identify the source of the endorsement.
6. Sunscreen is not necessary on cloudy days – Myth
Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can go through clouds. That’s why it is important to wear sunscreen when you are going outside for an extended amount of time.
7. Oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer – Myth
This is absolutely not true. There is a difference between skin oil and skin hydration. The moisturizer is for hydrating your skin. All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. If you don’t moisturize, your skin will dry out, and the skin’s natural response is to create more oil. People with oily skin should look for a thinner layer and a non-comedogenic moisturizer, which is a product that will not feel heavy on your skin.
8. You shouldn’t exfoliate sensitive skin – Myth
Exfoliating clears clogged pores, removes all the dead skin cells, and helps the skin absorb moisture, which is great for sensitive skin. You just need to check some points like using the right product. If you are using a chemical exfoliator, start with a low concentration; if you are using a physical exfoliator, use it gently, and lastly, do not over-exfoliate your skin. If you follow these points, you can exfoliate your skin even if you have sensitive skin.
9. Cucumbers eliminate puffiness under your eyes – Kind of True
Many people use cool cucumbers to reduce puffiness under their eyes. While cucumbers are high in water content, making them very hydrating to the skin, generally speaking, any cool compress will have the same effect and does not give the best result. If you genuinely need to eliminate puffiness under your eyes, then use a good under-eye cream. That will give you the best result.
10. Natural skincare products are always safe and effective – Myth
I have heard this a lot from my grandmother and some of my older relatives: that all synthetic ingredients are harmful and all-natural ingredients are safe and effective. I’m sure you have heard the same. This is not true. Some natural ingredients can be beneficial, but not all-natural ingredients are good for your skin, and not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. In fact, in a study, it was found that there are “loopholes for natural substances” used in personal care products.
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12. Face exercises will reduce wrinkles – Mostly False
In recent years it has become popular for some celebrities and content creators. Still, no well-researched studies have proven that face exercises reduce wrinkles. Even I do not do this, so I cannot give you my personal experience. But I researched a lot about this and found something. “The thought here is that using the muscles in the face more will strengthen or tighten the face’s appearance. This is not correct. The process to reduce wrinkles is to boost collagen production in your skin, but in this case, you are actually breaking down your skin’s collagen. So, instead of reducing wrinkles, this could potentially create new wrinkles.”
13. Sunscreen prevents aging – True
Many studies have found that people who use sunscreen regularly show fewer signs of aging in the skin because sunscreen protects you from sun UV rays. And UV rays are the main culprit for premature aging.
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14. Microneedling at home is the same as microneedling in a medical spa – Myth
While collagen induction therapy, also known as microneedling, can be performed DIY style or professionally, we always recommend seeking treatment at a medical spa for superior results and a safer process.
15. You can shrink your pores – Myth
Pore size is largely determined by genetics, so it’s not possible to permanently shrink them. However, following a good skincare routine can help minimize their appearance.
16. The more you wash your face, the better – False
Washing your face too frequently can disrupt the microbiome of your skin and strip away its natural oils. Generally, washing twice a day is recommended.
17. Use a lot of skincare products to have nice-looking skin – False
The thought here is that using a few is good, then using a lot will be even better. But sometimes, less is more when it comes to skincare routines. Using too many products can lead to ingredient overlap, which increases the risk of sensitivity and allergies. Achieving great skin can be as simple as implementing an essential skincare routine.
18. You do not need to use anti-aging products before your mid-30s – False
You cannot run from aging; as you get older, you will get wrinkles because it is natural. But you can slow down the process and reduce their appearance by using anti-aging products earlier. The best skincare product for anti-aging is sunscreen, so buy a good sunscreen according to your need and do not forget to use it regularly.
19. Hot water is good for your skin – False
I know it feels good to use hot water. But it is not good for your skin. If you use hot water, it will strip away all the natural oil. As a result, it can lead to irritation and redness on your skin. So do not use hot water, at least on your face. Try to use cold water or at least lukewarm water.
20. Sunscreen clogs pores – Mostly True
Modern, well-formulated sunscreens claim to be non-comedogenic (which means they don’t include clogging ingredients), but honestly, it’s an unregulated term that doesn’t necessarily guarantee anything. So always make sure to remove all sunscreen and makeup before going to bed.
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21. Lemon juice brightens dull skin – Myth
No way. And if you use this, then you are in my company because, in the past, I also used it. Even I used it with some more added things. Actually, my elder sister used raw lemon juice and raw cucumber juice, mixed them together, and then directly applied this on her face. Seeing her, I sometimes used it as well. These types of home remedies can show some instant results. But trust me, do not use this because lemon juice is very acidic for your skin. If you use it regularly, it can cause skin irritation and inflammation. If you want to combat dullness, try a potent vitamin C serum instead.
If you read the whole article, then I’m sure that some of your misconceptions about skincare are broken, and you now know some knowledgeable things about skincare.