Skin Care Myths

skincare myths__1458740810_162.206.228.38When it comes to your skin, you probably have some firm beliefs.  But there are many rumors swirling around the beauty-sphere about things that are good or bad for your skin.  Today we’re debunking some common skin care myths to keep you in the know on how to protect your skin and keep it looking vibrant and youthful.

 

 

Myth:  Double SPF in sunscreen means double the protection.

The most effective sunscreen will offer broad spectrum UVA (rays that penetrate deeply and induce a tan) and UVB (rays that cause sunburn, cancer and photoaging) protection.  But SPF 30 is not twice as good at SPF 15.  In reality, there is only a 4% difference.  SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays while SPF 30 blocks 97%.  Dermatologists recommend at least SPF 15 protection daily and sunscreen should be re-applied every 2 hours.

Myth:  The shade completely protects you from UV rays. 

Up to 80% of your ultraviolet radiation exposure is atmospheric.  That means that just walking around – whether you’re in the shade or sun – you are being exposed to harmful rays.  Therefore, sunscreen is always necessary even on cloudy days or days when you’ll be outdoors in a shaded area.

Myth:  Washing your face more often will clear up blemishes.

Washing is important but over-washing can actually damage your skin.  Your skin produces natural oil known as sebum oil that acts as a protective barrier.  Sebum oil shields your face from microbes as well as some UV rays.  So don’t go overboard on scrubbing away your body’s natural defenses.

Myth:  Junk food causes acne.

No studies have clearly indicated that eating junk will make you break-out.  However, some research shows that foods that cause inflammation, including those with refined sugar, can lead to blemishes.  So if you’re going to eat sugary foods, counterbalance them with anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes.

Myth:  Make-up with SPF counts as sunscreen.

You would have to apply over 10 times the normal amount of make-up to qualify as facial sunscreen.  Don’t fall prey to this marketing ploy.  Always wear sunscreen under foundation or powder.

Myth:  You should pop your pimples.

Popping pimples often pushes the bacteria that caused them deeper into skin layers.  This usually results in more pimples in the same general area within a few days.  Avoid popping and picking at blemishes and allow them to dissolve naturally.

Myth:  Expensive anti-aging products work better.

Most anti-aging skin care products contain very similar ingredients, plus or minus a few elements that are part of the latest skin care fad.  Drug store brands often work just as effectively for a fraction of the cost.

Myth: Anti-wrinkle creams permanently remove wrinkles.

In general, anti-wrinkle creams help hydrate skin to fill in fine lines and wrinkles temporarily.  Their perceived effectiveness only lasts as long as you use them and your skin remains hydrated.  Retinol and Vitamin C are two ingredients that have the best track record for reducing signs of aging.

Myth:  Skin aging is completely genetic.

Your lifestyle choices and habits contribute to your skin’s outlook.  Eating anti-oxidants, exercising and not-smoking are all good skin choices. Also, avoid squinting, piercing your lips and sleeping with your face smushed into your pillow to help keep your skin looking its best.

The post Skin Care Myths appeared first on Leading Lady.

Shop now

You can use this element to add a quote, content...