Dermatology: Busting Myths Around Skincare

The desire for a clear complexion is universal. However, it’s probably more about your ability to distinguish between fact and fiction than how diligently you follow a cleansing regimen or how much money you spend. Most of the skincare advice out there is just not true, and some myths can even harm your skin.

Here’s debunking some skincare myths for you to know the reality:

Myth: Protection is better when the SPF is higher.

Fact: UV (ultraviolet) rays are classified as UVA, UVB, and UVC. During sun exposure, UVA rays penetrate you fairly deeply, altering your skin’s pigmentation as well as causing photoaging and pigment changes. These rays can also cause cancerous tumours. The SPF on a sunscreen refers to how well it protects against UVB rays or sunburns. Many sunscreens must protect against UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreens that cover both UVA and UVB rays are broad spectrum. A good sunscreen should have a minimum SPF of 15 and contain oxybenzone, mexoryl, or avobenzone (Parsol 1789) for UVA protection, or titanium dioxide for protection from ozone.

Myth: You don’t need sun protection on a cloudy day.

Fact: Sunlight reaches the surface of the earth even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen daily and reapply after swimming or sweating. Don’t let yourself be fooled into believing you’re protected simply because you’re wearing makeup with an SPF. In order to reach the SPF on the label of powdered makeup, one needs to apply 14 or 15 times as much makeup. This is also true of liquid and foundation. Hence, don’t forget to wear sunscreen on top of your makeup.

Myth: Popping a pimple is never a good idea.

Fact: It will be easier to get rid of pimples if you pop them the right way! There are ways to pop a pimple without injuring the skin and causing a scab. By releasing the pressure inside a filling, the skin-damaging substance inside is released. It is important to take extreme care when handling the skin, as you never want to damage it. It’s imperative to know when the blemish is ready to release its contents, since it’s critical to know when it’s ready. If a noticeable “whitehead” appears on the surface, and the zit appears slightly swollen, then it’s ready. Be as gentle as possible in this process.

Myth: Make sure the cosmetics you choose are chemical-free.

Fact: Just as there are some good and some bad skin ingredients, there are also some good and some bad chemicals, so we should cease thinking of the word “chemicals” negatively. Our skincare products would not exist without chemicals. Also, good chemicals can cause harm when used in excess, when they are misused, or when too much is exposed to them. Some chemicals that are claimed to be harmful to you are perfectly safe in the amounts they are typically used in cosmetics, including parabens, acrylates, PEGs, and sunscreen ingredients. However, what matters is the quantity of the chemical used.

Myth: Keeping your skincare routine minimalist is best.

Fact: A minimalist routine can be effective for some people. However, if you have skin issues going on, minimalist skincare won’t be enough to get rid of the problems. Also, if you are new to skincare routines, it can be confusing. Though it might sound appealing to walk fewer steps every morning and night, it is not for everyone. Some people need more. It’s important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all plan for all. Hence, it’s important to keep all skin care goals and concerns in mind when creating a skincare routine, even if minimalist skincare routines are on-trend. It’s also a good idea to experiment a bit to see what combination produces the best results.

Myth: Using anti-aging products in your youth is a good idea.

Fact: You may be concerned about the future, but exposing your skin to anti-aging products when it is youthful isn’t necessary. You should use the product when you reach your 30s, or when you feel your face is showing signs of aging.

If you’re suffering from any skin problem, it’s always better to get in touch with ,dermatology experts at a reputed hospital like OMNI Hospitals. At OMNI we have a dedicated team of dermatologists who expertise in treating all kinds of skin & hair problems such as Complex facial trauma, Oral Pathology–cysts and tumours, Temporo-mandibular joint surgery, Facial deformity correction, Oral cancer facial reconstructive surgery, Oral cancer, Facial cosmetic surgery, Salivary gland surgery, Osseointegrated implant and wisdom tooth removal, Facial rejuvenation with Botox and dermal fillers.

To know more or to book an appointment – Call:  8880 101 000