When it comes to skincare misconceptions and falling under propaganda are quite common. It is not uncommon to tend to accept certain things that are not factual. To assist, we found it helpful to speak to a skincare expert to help dispel some of the common myths related to skincare. In this expert Q&A, we learn what should be done and what should not be done, hence knowledge is power for your skin.
Q1: You don’t need sunscreen because it is cloudy, is that true?
Specialist: This is one of the most common errors regarding skin care products and practices. Most people think that wearing sunscreen is only essential during hot temperatures. That’s a misconception that quite a few people make. This is because up to 80 percent of the UV rays can actually reach the Earth even when the sun is hidden behind clouds. This UVA or UVB radiation is present and any kid playing outside even without the sun being out is exposed. Continuous Application of Sunscreen is a must regardless of the climatic conditions to shield the skin from moisture remains or premature aging and skin cancer as well.
Q2: Are oily skin types excused from moisturizing?
Specialist: It is a common misconception that oily skin does not call for the application of moisturizer. In fact, forgetting to apply a moisturizer can aggravate the condition instead of alleviating it. Due to a lack of moisture, the oiliest of the skins feel chased by the oils to produce more oil rather than suffering the dry-out. The main thing is to find the correct type of moisturizer. For oily skin, lightweight, oil-free, and non-comedogenic products are designed that won’t block the pores.
Q3: Are there any contraindications to the direct application of essential oils to the skin?
Specialist: People have hailed essential oils as an asset to the skincare routine, and rightly so, but applying undiluted essential oils on skin can bring about skin irritations, allergic responses, or even skin burns. Essential oils should also be infused into products using a base oil such as jojoba or almond oil before they are applied to the skin. There are essential oils, such as tree tea oil or lavender, which are extremely beneficial when used appropriately.
Q4: Would it be possible that regular products can also be substituted with organic compounds?
Specialist: People are becoming more interested in the use of natural treatments for their skin, which is good, but it should be noted that not all the so-called natural ingredients can be as powerful as skin-care science endeavors. There are natural products such as honey, aloe vera, and oatmeal that can help heal and moisturize the skin. Still, quite a lot of these professional formulations are also constructed with more potent active ingredients that are in proper proportions and that are difficult to achieve at home. For more advanced skin problems like acne, hyperpigmentation, and aging, topical skincare of higher grade can be a better solution.
Q5: It follows that the more price you pay for products, the better the quality of the skincare, is that so?
Specialist: It is important to note that not all pricey products are guaranteed to work so well. Some expensive skin care lines may include top-grade ingredients, yet it is possible that others may just include a price for the label and container. On the contrary, there are inexpensive skin care brands with great products are very remarkable. The focus should be shifted to the composition instead of the cost. Use active ingredients like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C which work on the blemish.
Q6: Do you have the ability to reduce the pores on your skin?
Specialist: Sadly, there is no way to permanently get rid of the pores. Pore size is largely determined by genetics, though they can appear larger due to factors like oil buildup, aging, and sun damage. However, you cannot alter the size of your pores but you can control their size externally by cleaning and limiting oil production on the skin. Regular scrubbing, clay masks and salicylic acid or niacinamide will make the pores appear smaller.
Q7: What would occur to your skin if you exfoliate every day?
Specialist: Yes, daily exfoliation can be too harsh for most skin types. Exfoliation is beneficial in sloughing off dead skin and its processes make the skin look better however too much of it can be detrimental to the skin because the natural oil of the skin will be depleted thus making the skin irritable, sensitive and at times breaking out in spots. 2-3 times a week is enough for those on lactic or glycolic acid and it’s recommended to do wartification. In cases where the skin is too sensitive then it is best to do less exfoliation or use a different approach to exfoliants.
Q8: Is it necessary to change your skincare products frequently so that your skin does not become ‘immune’ to them?
Specialist: This is a widespread misconception. Your skin does not develop an ‘immunity’ to skin care products. If a product stops being effective, it is most likely not the product that has ceased to be effective, it is your skin that has changed. For instance, in the winter, one’s skin becomes drier and needs more moisture while in the summer, the skin may become oilier and require more lightweight products. It is important to follow your skin’s cues and modify the regimen as per the requirements, but that does not mean that you always have to change the products if they are working for you.
Q9: Is it safe to say that natural products will always be of priority in the case of sensitive skin?
Specialist: Not always. Just because the product say’s it is “natural” does not make it better or safer, especially on a sensitive skin type. Healthy skin does not necessarily respond adversely to fragrances, as long as they are soothing products free of a lot of chemicals: aloe, chamomile, oat, etc. Any product, be it in a natural or synthetic formulation, should be patch-tested before use in the regimen.
Q10: Is it true that drinking a lot of water has any effect on your skin?
Specialist: It is known that drinking enough water is important for one’s wellbeing but taking water alone will not improve one’s skin appearance. Water can help to maintain the normal processes of the internal organs, however, it will not water the skin from the inside. The topical preparations help to keep the skin moisturized. Still, not eating and drinking enough will show its effect on the skin making it grey and maybe even flaky due to lack of water.
Q11: Is it necessary to use a toner as part of your skincare routine?
Specialist: It was common practice to apply a toner after cleansing in order to restore the pH balance of the skin, which was applicable in the days when cleansers were harsher. Not everyone needs a toner, but it may be useful depending on the individual skin requirements.
Q12: Is it correct that oily skin is less prone to aging than dry skin?
Specialist: There’s some measure of truth in this. Oily skin is less prone to fine cracks horizontal lines and crow feet because oil adds moisture and results in the skin remaining plump for a long while. But that doesn’t mean that oily skin does not age. Photodamage, environmental factors, and pollution and lifestyle factors mostly contribute to skin aging. Well, irrespective of the skin type, sunscreen usage and including anti-aging formulations like retinol or antioxidants is a must to keep aging at bay.
Conclusion
One of the downsides of some principles of skin care is deceptive and makes one take a course of action leading to damage to the skin. Now that you have this professional information, you are less likely to fall for the misconceptions and instead try to achieve what is effective for your skin. Whether it is daily sun protection or the correct application of essential oils into one’s skin, such myths and misconceptions have a right to be dispelled for better skin care practice. Always remember that skincare requires analyzing, planning, education, and most importantly, consistency.
