Skincare plays an important role in maintaining overall health and well-being. The skin is the first line of defense against harmful environmental factors, and an effective skincare routine helps prevent skin conditions, delay premature aging, and even diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
However, there are numerous myths deeply rooted in the collective consciousness that can negatively affect the skin's appearance or prevent us from taking proper care of it if we believe them.
From miraculous ingredients to overnight transformations, skincare is a field rife with misinformation. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most widespread myths about skincare, so that, in the end, each of us can focus on healthy habits and choose an approach suitable for our skin's needs.
Contents
Sun protection is not necessary in the cold season – FALSE
In reality, we need to ensure our skin is protected from ultraviolet radiation 365 days a year, whether it's cloudy, clear, snowing, raining, or scorching hot. Moreover, it is necessary to use a cream with sun protection factor even when we are indoors.
Many people believe that sunscreen is only needed in summer, but this is a myth. Ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sunburn are not as strong in winter, but they are always present. Additionally, UV rays responsible for fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation are present all year round.
It's true that clouds block some ultraviolet radiation. However, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds. Therefore, it is important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, regardless of the weather conditions.
Also, UV rays reflect off various surfaces, such as water, cement, sand, and snow, causing skin problems.
UV rays can affect the skin even if we don't go outside. This is especially true if we are in a room with many windows or if the windows do not offer UV protection.
SPF50+ Hydrating Face Cream – the first product offering 360° sun protection: UVA, UVB, IR (infrared radiation) for sensitive, dry, and dehydrated skin.
Sunlight Mat SPF50+ – very high sun protection cream for sensitive, combination, or oily skin.
All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. This is an essential step in the daily skincare routine.
When the skin lacks hydration, sebum production (the skin's natural oil) can increase, as the skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture.
People with oily skin should choose moisturizers with a light, oil-free, and non-comedogenic texture. Products specially formulated for oily skin provide the necessary hydration without clogging pores or causing acne breakouts. Thanks to proper hydration, sebum production balances out, making the skin less oily.
Expensive products are always better – FALSE
Price does not necessarily reflect the effectiveness of skincare products. More important than the cost of a product are its composition, the source of its ingredients, and their purity. At the same time, a very cheap product is not as effective as one that has innovative ingredients in high concentrations.
To achieve good results, it is important to know what type of skin we have and its specific needs, which ingredients are best suited for our skincare routine, and to choose those whose efficacy has been clinically proven.
The cost of skincare products is not always a perfect indicator of their effectiveness.
Aggressively treating pimples makes them disappear faster – FALSE
In reality, squeezing pimples can do more harm than good. This action can make it easier for bacteria to penetrate the skin, leading to infections and scars. It can also prolong the healing process, as the comedones are not completely removed.
Instead, to get rid of acne, a local treatment with products containing proven effective ingredients for acne, such as salicylic acid, 5 alpha-avocuta, bakuchiol, and Alpha-Bisabolol, is recommended to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Daily exfoliation keeps skin healthy – FALSE
Skin regeneration is a natural process. However, as we age, the elimination of dead cells becomes more difficult, which is why exfoliation with cosmetic products is recommended.
Nevertheless, excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin's natural barrier. Using harsh products can cause irritation, and can also lead to inflammation, as it makes the skin vulnerable and provides a pathway for microorganisms to penetrate.
Specialists recommend exfoliating two to three times a week, using products suitable for the skin type and its needs.
Exfoliation should not be seen as an instant solution, but rather as a constant, long-term process in a skincare routine.
Skincare products can shrink pores – FALSE
Genetics is the main factor determining pore size, so their size cannot be changed. However, there are certain ingredients, such as salicylic acid and retinol, which can help minimize the appearance of pores.
Cleansing the skin, both morning and night, as well as hydrating the skin are essential for pores to appear smaller and less visible.
Hot water is recommended for healthy skin – FALSE
There's a myth that hot water opens pores, so we should wash with water at a high temperature. In fact, water itself can open pores, regardless of its temperature. Pores are not temperature-sensitive. However, hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and pruritus (itching).
For washing and cleansing the skin, warm water and the use of fragrance- and alcohol-free products are recommended.
Only teenagers get acne – FALSE
Acne is one of the skin conditions that can occur at any age. It is true that during puberty, acne is more common because that is when most hormonal changes occur.
Acne triggers do not depend on age. These can range from inappropriate eating habits and lack of a proper skincare routine to stress and pollution. When hormone levels fluctuate, the risk of developing acne is higher. This typically happens during adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause.
Basic habits, such as cleansing twice a day, removing makeup in the evening, and a healthy diet, can help maintain clear, blemish-free skin.
Dark circles only appear due to fatigue – FALSE
Lack of sleep can exacerbate the problem of dark circles, but it is not the only cause. Genetics, the natural aging process, hyperpigmentation, and lack of hydration are factors that can influence the appearance of dark circles. Also, they are more prominent when the skin is thinner.
How skin ages is solely due to genetics – FALSE
It is true that genetics play an essential role in the skin aging process, but both the number of lines and wrinkles and the time of their appearance depend on many other intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
For example, signs of aging can appear due to repeated facial expressions, such as frowning and smiling. Also, the skincare routine matters a lot. Although it is a natural process – everyone ages as years pass – it can be delayed with the help of healthy habits.
Sun exposure is one of the factors that cause premature skin aging. Ultraviolet radiation affects the skin, so it is necessary to apply sunscreen every day, and on hot days, limit sun exposure.
Also, stress and smoking are among the factors that accelerate the aging process. Therefore, it is good to find suitable ways to manage stress (exercise, meditation, reading) and give up bad habits.
Nutrition is a very important factor that influences metabolic age and how the body and skin age. The body's hydration level, through water, fruits, and vegetables, is essential for a youthful skin appearance.
Also, sleep is an essential factor that eliminates stress from the body and counteracts its effects on skin aging. Emotional balance has also been shown to be an indicator of reduced stress and inflammation in the body.
A young body is healthier, and this is very visible in the skin.
In conclusion, it is important to take care of our skin every day and choose cosmetic products according to the needs of our skin and on the recommendation of dermatologists.
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.
Myths and truths about skin care
Skincare plays an important role in maintaining overall health and well-being. The skin is the first line of defense against harmful environmental factors, and an effective skincare routine helps prevent skin conditions, delay premature aging, and even diminish fine lines and wrinkles.
However, there are numerous myths deeply rooted in the collective consciousness that can negatively affect the skin's appearance or prevent us from taking proper care of it if we believe them.
From miraculous ingredients to overnight transformations, skincare is a field rife with misinformation. In this article, we aim to debunk some of the most widespread myths about skincare, so that, in the end, each of us can focus on healthy habits and choose an approach suitable for our skin's needs.
Contents
Sun protection is not necessary in the cold season – FALSE
In reality, we need to ensure our skin is protected from ultraviolet radiation 365 days a year, whether it's cloudy, clear, snowing, raining, or scorching hot. Moreover, it is necessary to use a cream with sun protection factor even when we are indoors.
Many people believe that sunscreen is only needed in summer, but this is a myth. Ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sunburn are not as strong in winter, but they are always present. Additionally, UV rays responsible for fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation are present all year round.
It's true that clouds block some ultraviolet radiation. However, up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds. Therefore, it is important to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, regardless of the weather conditions.
Also, UV rays reflect off various surfaces, such as water, cement, sand, and snow, causing skin problems.
UV rays can affect the skin even if we don't go outside. This is especially true if we are in a room with many windows or if the windows do not offer UV protection.
Oily skin does not need a moisturizer – FALSE
All skin types, including oily skin, need hydration. This is an essential step in the daily skincare routine.
When the skin lacks hydration, sebum production (the skin's natural oil) can increase, as the skin tries to compensate for the lack of moisture.
People with oily skin should choose moisturizers with a light, oil-free, and non-comedogenic texture. Products specially formulated for oily skin provide the necessary hydration without clogging pores or causing acne breakouts. Thanks to proper hydration, sebum production balances out, making the skin less oily.
Expensive products are always better – FALSE
Price does not necessarily reflect the effectiveness of skincare products. More important than the cost of a product are its composition, the source of its ingredients, and their purity. At the same time, a very cheap product is not as effective as one that has innovative ingredients in high concentrations.
To achieve good results, it is important to know what type of skin we have and its specific needs, which ingredients are best suited for our skincare routine, and to choose those whose efficacy has been clinically proven.
The cost of skincare products is not always a perfect indicator of their effectiveness.
Aggressively treating pimples makes them disappear faster – FALSE
In reality, squeezing pimples can do more harm than good. This action can make it easier for bacteria to penetrate the skin, leading to infections and scars. It can also prolong the healing process, as the comedones are not completely removed.
Instead, to get rid of acne, a local treatment with products containing proven effective ingredients for acne, such as salicylic acid, 5 alpha-avocuta, bakuchiol, and Alpha-Bisabolol, is recommended to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Daily exfoliation keeps skin healthy – FALSE
Skin regeneration is a natural process. However, as we age, the elimination of dead cells becomes more difficult, which is why exfoliation with cosmetic products is recommended.
Nevertheless, excessive exfoliation can disrupt the skin's natural barrier. Using harsh products can cause irritation, and can also lead to inflammation, as it makes the skin vulnerable and provides a pathway for microorganisms to penetrate.
Specialists recommend exfoliating two to three times a week, using products suitable for the skin type and its needs.
Exfoliation should not be seen as an instant solution, but rather as a constant, long-term process in a skincare routine.
Skincare products can shrink pores – FALSE
Genetics is the main factor determining pore size, so their size cannot be changed. However, there are certain ingredients, such as salicylic acid and retinol, which can help minimize the appearance of pores.
Cleansing the skin, both morning and night, as well as hydrating the skin are essential for pores to appear smaller and less visible.
Hot water is recommended for healthy skin – FALSE
There's a myth that hot water opens pores, so we should wash with water at a high temperature. In fact, water itself can open pores, regardless of its temperature. Pores are not temperature-sensitive. However, hot water strips the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and pruritus (itching).
For washing and cleansing the skin, warm water and the use of fragrance- and alcohol-free products are recommended.
Only teenagers get acne – FALSE
Acne is one of the skin conditions that can occur at any age. It is true that during puberty, acne is more common because that is when most hormonal changes occur.
Acne triggers do not depend on age. These can range from inappropriate eating habits and lack of a proper skincare routine to stress and pollution. When hormone levels fluctuate, the risk of developing acne is higher. This typically happens during adolescence, pregnancy, and menopause.
Basic habits, such as cleansing twice a day, removing makeup in the evening, and a healthy diet, can help maintain clear, blemish-free skin.
Dark circles only appear due to fatigue – FALSE
Lack of sleep can exacerbate the problem of dark circles, but it is not the only cause. Genetics, the natural aging process, hyperpigmentation, and lack of hydration are factors that can influence the appearance of dark circles. Also, they are more prominent when the skin is thinner.
How skin ages is solely due to genetics – FALSE
It is true that genetics play an essential role in the skin aging process, but both the number of lines and wrinkles and the time of their appearance depend on many other intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
For example, signs of aging can appear due to repeated facial expressions, such as frowning and smiling. Also, the skincare routine matters a lot. Although it is a natural process – everyone ages as years pass – it can be delayed with the help of healthy habits.
Sun exposure is one of the factors that cause premature skin aging. Ultraviolet radiation affects the skin, so it is necessary to apply sunscreen every day, and on hot days, limit sun exposure.
Also, stress and smoking are among the factors that accelerate the aging process. Therefore, it is good to find suitable ways to manage stress (exercise, meditation, reading) and give up bad habits.
Nutrition is a very important factor that influences metabolic age and how the body and skin age. The body's hydration level, through water, fruits, and vegetables, is essential for a youthful skin appearance.
Also, sleep is an essential factor that eliminates stress from the body and counteracts its effects on skin aging. Emotional balance has also been shown to be an indicator of reduced stress and inflammation in the body.
A young body is healthier, and this is very visible in the skin.
In conclusion, it is important to take care of our skin every day and choose cosmetic products according to the needs of our skin and on the recommendation of dermatologists.
Resources:
https://www.health.com/beauty/skincare/skincare-myths-to-stop-believing
https://www.forbes.com/sites/jonisweet/2021/12/28/11-skincare-myths-you-should-stop-believing-according-to-dermatologists/?sh=68c79f213611
https://healthy-skin.me/11-common-skin-care-myths-vs-health-facts/
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.