In today’s work, we are bombarded with information on everything from all sides, so it has become difficult to distinguish facts from myths. So often, we get dangerously close to risking our fragile skin following a skincare tip from a seemingly reliable source on the internet or in our families. These “hacks” are based on nothing except age-old myths and some coincidental results. Knowing the truth behind the most common skincare myths will help ensure you don’t fall prey to this baseless information.
Drinking Water Is Key to Hydrated Skin
We’re all aware of the annoying feeling of asking someone the secret of their glowing skin and then nonchalantly suggesting drinking more water. There’s no doubt that drinking adequate water is critical for our body’s overall functionality, including, to some extent, keeping our skin supple. But this alone is not sufficient to hydrate your skin. Instead, a combination of good water intake and topical humectants such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin is the most optimum way to support your skin’s natural barrier and lock in moisture.
Natural Ingredients Are Better
There is no denying that natural and herbal skincare has its fair share of benefits and often gives surprising results. There is, however, no truth to the claim that they are safer than synthetic ingredients by a long shot. The safety of any skincare ingredient is independent of its origins—it depends on how it is formulated and utilized. Natural ingredients don’t need to suit everyone’s skin and might result in irritation or allergic reactions. It is better to opt for synthetic ingredients like salicylic acid and niacinamide, which have been dermatologically tested to ensure they’re safe for all skin types.
Laser Hair Removal Is Dangerous and Painful
We have all experienced the traumatizing pain that accompanies a waxing session or the tiresome task of shaving every three days because the hair growth doesn’t stop. Amongst all this, we have probably considered laser hair removal at least once but have been stopped by the notion that it’s risky. Nothing can be farther from the truth.
Thanks to modern technology, laser hair removal has been designed and enhanced to make the process comfortable and risk-free. Choose a reputable practitioner for the procedure and always do a pre-treatment consultation to discuss skin-specific concerns. For instance, if you’re based in Kansas, look up laser hair treatment in Kansas City and conveniently book a professional consultation from home.
Who Needs Moisturizer for Oily Skin?
No skin type can skip moisturizer, especially not oily skin. Leaving oily skin without appropriate moisturizing causes more sebum production to compensate for the lack. Following a regular skincare routine, including a good, lightweight moisturizer, is essential to control oil production and maintain a healthy skin barrier. Gels and water-based moisturizers are excellent options for oily and acne-prone skin.
Toothpaste: Magical Pimple Remover
Yes, the age-old acne remedy of putting a blob of toothpaste on a pimple is false and lacks any scientific backing! Not only is toothpaste not meant to be used on the skin (except as an emergency first-aid for burns) because the ingredients can be harsh on the skin barrier, but it can cause irritation and make the acne worse. Instead, opt for spot treatments or incorporate benzoyl peroxide into your skincare routine to fight acne effectively.
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Hot Water Open Pores, Cold Water Shrinks Them
The size of our skin’s pores depends only on genetics and can not be permanently—or even temporarily—reduced. The water temperature you use to wash your face or skincare products that promise to do the same doesn’t affect pore size. However, the noticeable appearance of pores is caused by dirt and sebum buildup and can be reduced using retinoids and salicylic acid.
Wash Your Face Frequently to Prevent Acne
Acne breakouts have nothing to do with how often you wash your face. Washing your face too frequently will only strip the skin of natural oils. As a result, the skin becomes dry and irritated, making room for worse breakouts. The skin tries to compensate for the dryness by producing excessive oil, which clogs pores and causes pimples. Ideally, wash your face twice a day and avoid using harsh cleansing products that strip the skin of moisture.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the endless beauty myths we have heard all our lives. Most of these myths have been long ingrained in our minds and have undoubtedly been a part of our skincare routines at some point. However, it’s high time to unlearn these behaviors and do proper research before believing a suggestion, irrespective of the source’s reliability. Refer to dermatologists and skincare experts for the most reliable advice, craft a regular, season-specific skincare routine, and follow it religiously without swaying from it due to made-up facts!
