Top 7 Skincare Myths Debunked

With google at our fingertips, it’s easy to be overloaded and overwhelmed with information. Today we clear the clutter and debunk the top 7 beauty myths for you, so there’s no doubt what’s right and what works.

Myth #1 There’s no such thing as washing your face too much

While water hydrates us, over-washing can actually cause dryness and sensitivity to the skin. The best kind of facial cleanser to use is one that is as gentle as possible, and does not contain any sulphates, so that it doesn’t strip your skin of its natural oils.

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Myth #2 Products with SPF doesn’t require additional sunscreen to be applied separately

While it’s true that many over the counter products these days include SPF but the truth of the matter is, you’re never going to apply as much of the makeup or skincare product as you would with regular sunscreen. Result? Inadequate sun protection. It’s always better to play it safe and apply a layer of good sun protection before any makeup application to keep you skin well protected.

Myth #3 Anti-ageing products are only for those in their 40s

Skincare products with antiaging ingredients, especially those with antioxidants are recommended to be used as early as when one is 21 years old. However it is crucial that you use antiaging skincare that is suitable for your skin. Active ingredients such as retinol can be added into your regime when you approach your mid to late 20s.

Myth #4 Retinol doesn’t work for sensitive skin

Although sensitive skin types may not tolerate well to prescription retinoids due to dryness, flaking, and peeling, you can consider non-prescription or over the counter retinol which isn't as strong and would be suitable for sensitive skin types. It’s always best to test it on your skin before committing to a specific product.

Myth #5 The skin under my eye is really dry so it’s ok for me to use the heaviest eye creams

Most rich and greasy eye creams typically contain mineral oil, petrolatum, or other oils that have large molecules which are not easily absorbed due to their molecular structure. They sit on the surface and can travel into the eyes while you're sleeping and can cause excessive puffiness in the morning. Simply stick to a good eye cream that absorbs well, without clogging the skin.

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Myth #6 People with dry skin age faster

The main cause of ageing skin is predominantly sun exposure, followed by lifestyle choices such as smoking and the amount of pollution they are exposed to. Such exposure will cause collagen fibres to break down. Skin then looks less plump and youthful. Therefore, dry skin does not cause wrinkles or ageing but it can certainly emphasise them. It’s important to find a good moisturiser to combat dryness for a more youthful appearance.

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Myth #7 Exfoliation is the way to glowing skin

Exfoliation is good for the skin but over exfoliation does more harm than good, irritating the skin and causing it to overcompensate and overproduce sebum, leading to breakouts. Simply find a good exfoliator use it once or twice a week. If you’re worried of having a heavy hand with exfoliation, consider chemical exfoliants where you simply leave it on clean face and let it do its work.