There are many skin myths out there. Let’s take a look at the more common ones.
Truth or Myth?
1) You only need to wear sunscreen when the sun is out or you’re planning to sunbathe.
MYTH- You are still exposed to ultraviolet rays even when it’s cloudy. You need to wear sunscreen EVERY day regardless of the weather or what you’re you’re planning to do. Sun damage can occur over time in small doses. So running errands every day for years without sunscreen can add up to a day by the pool without sunscreen.
2) Certain foods can cause acne, like greasy, fried food and chocolate.
MYTH- There is no medical evidence that eating certain foods causes breakouts. Acne occurs when dead skin cells stick together in the follicle and cause a breakout. Sebum and bacteria are trapped and result in a bump and inflammation. Eating a healthy diet is, of course, good for your whole body, but will not cure acne.
3) Retin A is shouldn’t be used for long periods of time. It will make the skin thinner and more delicate.
MYTH- Retin A does not thin skin. This myth came about because Retin A causes skin cells to shed on top of the epidermis. The underlying layer, though, actually thickens. This means skin has more support and looks plumper and younger. There are very few people who wouldn’t benefit from using Retin A. Originally a treatment for acne because of it’s ability to break down dead skin cells, it is now used for aging skin. Retin A speeds up the turnover of dead skin cells, making skin brighter and helps to lift pigmentation from the sun. Retin A actually makes skin cells function more effectively. It is acknowledged as the gold standard in treating photo-aging.
4) You can have a healthy tan.
MYTH- There is no such thing as a healthy tan. When exposed to UV or sun rays, melanin is produced and secreted by skin cells or keratinocytes. This is a protective action of the skin. The skin is trying to protect itself from further damage by throwing out color. So if there is any tan on your skin, that is simply damaged skin.
5) It’s okay to extract your own breakouts.
MYTH- Extractions are best left to a skin care professional. Applying uneven pressure can actually push bacteria further into the skin. Using your fingers is unsanitary and can spread bacteria around the face. If you pick at your skin you can end up scarring it.
Do you have a skincare concern? Just leave me a comment below and I will answer it one of our upcoming blog posts.
