Beauty Myths Busted: What Really Works for Your Skin

In a world overwhelmed by social media, beauty advice is just a swipe away. But not all of it is worth following. From DIY skincare hacks to miracle products, it's easy to get lost in the sea of information. There are plenty of beauty myths that can damage you rather than help you find a solution to your skin problem, so uncover what really works for your skin is a matter of science and dermatologists. We don't want to bother you with long detailed description, but we are sure you've tried some of the following hacks, then felt depressed because they didn't really work properly.

Let's start with pimples a nightmare for every teenager. Some say toothpaste works great against them. Sounds familiar? We've all heard this one: dab a bit of toothpaste on a pimple, and it'll dry right up. While it might seem like a quick fix, dermatologists warn against it. Toothpaste contains ingredients like baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and menthol, which can irritate the skin and cause redness and peeling. Instead, opt for products specifically designed to treat acne, such as those containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

Another common opinion is that natural ingredients are always better. This is because the term natural is often associated with being safer and more effective. However, not all natural ingredients are good for your skin. For example, lemon juice can cause irritation and increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to burns and hyperpigmentation. Essential oils, while beneficial in some cases, can also trigger allergic reactions. It's crucial to patch-test new products and consult with a skin doctor before trying out natural remedies, especially if you saw them on social media. On the other hand, pricey skincare products often come with the allure of luxury and effectiveness. However, dermatologists agree that the price tag doesn't always equate to better results. Many affordable products contain the same active ingredients as their high-end counterparts. The key is to look for products with proven ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, and niacinamide.

DIY skincare recipes are popular on social media, but they can be risky. Ingredients like baking soda, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar can disrupt your skin's pH balance and cause irritation. It's best to stick with products formulated by experts and tested for safety and efficacy.

Summer is coming and SFP should too

One of the most dangerous myths is that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days. UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause skin damage even on overcast days. Dermatologists emphasize the importance of wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, regardless of the weather. This helps protect against premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer.

Ultraviolet (UV) rays, particularly UVA and UVB, are responsible for skin damage. UVA rays can penetrate deeper into the skin, leading to early wrinkles, while UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn. Both types of rays can penetrate through clouds, making sunscreen a daily necessity. Even if you're indoors, UV rays can penetrate through windows. This means that you can still be exposed to harmful rays while sitting by a window or driving in your car.

Please remember that sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating and areas like the ears, neck, and the back of your hands are often forgotten but need protection too.

Access doors to our deep skin?

Last but not least, it is important to explain how our skin works. Pores are not doors; they don't open and close. The size of your pores is determined by genetics, and while they can appear larger due to clogging or aging, they don't physically change size. Using steam or hot water can temporarily make pores appear smaller by loosening debris, but it won't change their actual size. Regular exfoliation and using products with salicylic acid can help keep pores clean and less noticeable. Even if you can't change the size of your pores, you can minimize their appearance. Applying retinoids and products with niacinamide can help improve skin texture and make pores look smaller. Wearing makeup doesn't necessarily cause acne. The real culprit is not removing it properly. Sleeping in makeup can clog pores and lead to breakouts. Always cleanse your face thoroughly before bed and consider using non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) makeup products.

Navigating the world of skincare can be tricky, especially with the abundance of myths circulating online. Always rely on science and expert advice to make informed decisions about your skincare routine. It is essential to find what suits your skin best: dermatologists are experts and can recommend using the most suitable products to keep your skin healthy and glowing. Protecting your skin is a year-round commitment, not just an hobby like scrolling Instagram posts!