It seems like every time we turn on the TV or open up a magazine we’re hit with adds for must have anti-aging treatments and skin care advice. It’s getting harder and harder to separate the fads from the tips and treatments that actually work. Here are some facts about some of the commonly held beauty beliefs.
Myth: Tanning booths are safe as long as they don’t contain UVB rays-
Most people know that tanning in the sun is bad for your skin and can cause premature aging along with skin cancer. Tanning companies have started claiming they’re filtering out the sunburn causing UVB rays. However when you go tanning in a booth you’re still exposing your skin to UVA rays which actually goes deeper into the skin and cause damage that leads to the same risks. Either way you’re putting your skin at risk for cancer, premature aging and damage.
Myth: You don’t need sunscreen on a cloudy day-
Just because you can’t see the rays doesn’t mean they’re not there. UV radiation from the sun can still reach the earth’s surface on a cloudy day. Make sure you use sunscreen every day and reapply it every two hours and again after swimming or sweating. This is in addition to your make-up, even if it includes an SPF. Though your powder is sporting a number, most make-up wearers don’t slather on enough to actually get specified SPF protection.
Myth: Scrubbing your face with soap will keep skin healthy and acne free-
When you scrub your face you’re actually scrubbing way natural protective oils and other barriers which lead to rashes and burns. Instead use a gentle cleanser followed by a moisturizer or sunscreen.
Myth: It’s better to get rid of a pimple by popping it-
Even though it feels better to pop a zit, a lot of the infection just burrows deeper. This causes more inflammation and can lead to scarring and spread under the skin. That’s why another one will pop up a few days later close to that first one. If you need to pop that zit do it right—buy a comedone extractor. It’s inexpensive and can be found at most beauty supply stores.
Myth: Facials and microdermabrasions are good for your skin care routine-
This is a popular myth but a recent study conducted inIndiaconcluded that facials actually cause acne breakouts in 80% of people. Besides relaxation, facials provide no long-term benefits.
Myth: Expensive skin care products work best-
The long and short of this one is it’s just not true. In fact the opposite is true. Many mass market products are better than the expensive ones. When you’re buying those expensive products from the department store you’re paying for the feel, smell and packaging.
Myth: Anti-aging products can erase wrinkles-
Most wrinkle creams simply hydrate skin plumping it out to make it look better and smoother, temporarily. Don’t buy into the hype. If you’re looking for something that works there is one product that has a reputation and solid history of reversing fine lines. Topical retinoids, often sold under the name “Retinol” or “Tretinoin” increase skin cell turnover and can be found over the counter. For a greater strength, ask your doctor for a prescription. However, nothing is magic.
Myth: Lasers can make you look 20 years younger-
Though lasers are better and produce better results than they did years ago, the reality is there’s only so much you can do. If you’ve done intensive damage to your skin, not even a laser can reverse it.
Bottom line- stay out of the sun and use a good sunscreen every day throughout the day.
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