We all want smooth, clear, glowing skin, with even texture and no blemishes. However, the choice of products we use and the way we use them can often cause damage to our skin. Add to that many popular myths and it can be hard to know how to look after our skin appropriately.
There are several seemingly logical skin care myths that many of us use to dictate how we care for our skin. This is despite the fact they were disproved centuries ago, as well as by modern scientific research.
In this article, we’ll bust some of the more common myths surrounding skincare to help you make healthier lifestyle choices.
Myth#1: My products have built-in SPF. I don’t need a separate sunscreen
If you wear makeup or moisturizers with SPF, you might think you don’t need to apply a separate sunscreen. However, most people don’t use enough of these products to get the full SPF protection indicated on the label. It’s best to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher separately from any other product.
Myth#2: Shaving makes hair grow back thicker
Shaving does not make hair grow back thicker. This is a common misconception, likely because when hair is shaved, the sharp edges of the hair shaft can make it feel coarser. However, shaving does not change the thickness of the hair shaft itself.
Myth#3: You don’t need to use sunscreen if you don’t plan on spending time in the sun
There are many misconceptions when it comes to sunscreen and sun protection. Some people believe that they don’t need to use sunscreen if they’re not planning on spending time in the sun. However, this is a myth. Everyone, regardless of their skin type or whether they plan on spending time in the sun, should be using sunscreen on a daily basis.
Sunscreen isn’t just for people who are going to be spending time outdoors in the summer months. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can penetrate through clouds and glass, which means that we’re exposed to them year-round. And while you may not feel the effects of UV exposure on your skin right away, it can actually cause long-term damage that leads to premature aging and increases your risk for skin cancer.
Myth#4: Eating chocolate or greasy foods will cause breakouts
It’s one of the most common skincare myths out there: Eating chocolate or greasy foods will cause breakouts. And while there may be some truth to the idea that certain foods can trigger breakouts (more on that later), it’s definitely not the case that all chocolate or all greasy foods are to blame.
So, what’s the real story? Let’s start with chocolate. A small study from 2010 found that eating chocolate may indeed be linked to an increased number of pimples, but it’s worth noting that the study was quite small and didn’t look at other possible factors (like, you know, hygiene). In other words, it’s possible that there’s no real connection between chocolate and acne; it could just be a coincidence.
As for greasy foods, there isn’t much scientific evidence to support the claim that they cause breakouts. However, it is true that when you eat a lot of greasy foods, your face tends to get oilier throughout the day. And if you already have oily skin, this can sometimes lead to clogged pores and breakouts. So while greasy foods may not be the direct cause of your breakouts, they could be making them worse.
Myth#5: You can skip moisturizer if you have oily skin
If you have oily skin, you might think that you can skip moisturizer. After all, your skin is already producing enough oil, so why add more? However, even if you have oily skin, it’s important to moisturize.
The reason why is that when your skin is dry, it produces even more oil in an attempt to hydrate itself. So, by skipping out on moisturizer, you’re actually causing your skin to produce more oil.
Instead of skipping moisturizer altogether, look for one that’s specifically designed for oily skin. These formulas will usually be lighter and won’t clog your pores.
Myth #6: Using hair removal methods causes hair to grow back thicker
Many people believe that using hair treatments, which removes hair at the skin’s surface, will cause the hair to grow back thicker and coarser. However, this is not true.
Hair removal treatments only get rid of hair on the surface. They don’t affect the hair follicle or its growth cycle. The texture and thickness of your hair depend on genetics and hormones. So whether you use cream or go to a spa for removing hair, like this one offering hair removal in Miami Lakes, it won’t change how your hair grows back.
The myth likely arose from the initial stubble-like appearance of the new hair growth, but this is a temporary effect and not a result of the hair becoming actually thicker or coarser over time.
Skincare myths can be confusing and overwhelming, but they don’t have to be! By learning what is true and what is false, you can ensure your skin is getting all the nourishment it needs. If you have any doubts, reach out to your dermatologist for help. Make sure you’re taking care of your skin today!