Skin – the largest organ in our body – is often misunderstood. From the products we use to the advice we’re given, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around. But what really works, and what’s just a myth?
Debunking the Myth: Expensive Skin Creams Keep You Young Forever
Sorry to break it to you, but no skin cream can protect your skin against aging indefinitely. “This is a marketing ploy and is certainly not true,” says Dr. Phillips. Simple moisturizers can do a lot, and creams containing topical retinoids can improve photoaging effects, but there’s no magic cream that keeps skin young forever. According to Dr. Goldstein, “90% of skin aging is from photodamage. So all of the creams that state they can prevent wrinkles and aging are missing the mark.” The most important intervention in slowing down the process is using a sunscreen with broadband UV cover – and it doesn’t have to be expensive!
Drinking Water Keeps Your Skin Hydrated… or Does It?
Drinking water is essential for your overall health, but does it really keep your skin hydrated? Not exactly. According to Prof. Williams, drinking water only keeps your skin hydrated “in the sense that water keeps the body hydrated and skin is the largest organ of the body.” There’s no evidence that drinking water directly impacts your skin unless you’re in extreme conditions like heat stroke or severe dehydration. So, drink water for your health, but don’t rely on it to keep your skin hydrated.
Antibacterial Soap is Not the Answer
Think antibacterial soap is the best way to keep your skin clean? Think again. The skin’s natural microbiome is vital for maintaining healthy skin, and using antibacterial soaps can upset that natural balance. “Removing both the good and bad bacteria on a regular basis is not always the best idea,” says Dr. Goldstein. Standard soap is fine, and thorough and consistent hand-washing is what helps prevent the spread of infection, not antibacterial soap.
Having a Dirty Face Does Not Cause Acne
Get ready for a shocker: having a dirty face does not cause acne. “Acne is caused by a complex interaction of hormones and the skin, not dirt,” says Dr. Goldstein. While dirt can irritate your skin, it’s not the root cause of acne. So, stop scrubbing your face raw and focus on understanding the real causes of acne.
Chocolate and Oily Foods Do Not Cause Acne Either
Another myth bites the dust: eating chocolate or oily foods does not cause acne. The truth is that an oily substance called sebum causes acne, and it’s made and secreted by the skin. So, go ahead and indulge in that chocolate cake – just don’t overdo it!
Sun Exposure: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
We’ve all heard that sun exposure is bad for our skin, but is it entirely true? Not quite. While excessive sun exposure can cause skin cancer and premature aging, some sun exposure is essential for boosting vitamin D synthesis. “The sun is a major source of vitamin D, which is important for bone health and may play a role in the immune system,” says Dr. Phillips. However, it’s essential to balance the benefits of sun exposure with the risks, and take precautions like using high-factor sunscreen, wearing appropriate clothing, and staying in the shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on sunny days.
Vitamin E Does Not Get Rid of Scars
We’ve all heard that vitamin E can help get rid of scars, but does it really work? Unfortunately, the evidence is “unconvincing,” according to Prof. Williams. While silicone gel products have been consistently shown to prevent scar overgrowth and improve the appearance of mature scars, vitamin E is not the magic solution we’ve been led to believe.
‘Natural’ Products are Not Always Better
Products marketed as “natural” are super popular, but what does “natural” really mean? “Arsenic is natural after all,” says Prof. Williams. While natural products may be appealing, they can have just as many side effects as well-tested medical products and may not be as effective or safe. So, don’t fall for the “natural” label – do your research and consult with a dermatologist instead.
Wounds Need Moisture, Not Air
Here’s another myth: wounds need air to heal. Not true! “Wounds heal better with a clean, moist environment,” says Prof. Williams. In fact, keeping a wound covered with a breathable ointment and a bandage can aid the healing process.
Exfoliating Daily is Not the Key to Healthy Skin
Exfoliating is a popular skincare trend, but is it really essential? Not according to Prof. Williams, who says that repeated exfoliation can damage the natural skin barrier. So, instead of exfoliating daily, focus on understanding your skin type and needs, and adjust your skincare routine accordingly.
Black Salve is Not a Safe Treatment for Skin Cancer
Black salve, a derivative of the bloodroot plant, has gained popularity as a treatment for skin cancer. But don’t fall for it – black salve can be dangerous and may not kill all skin cancer cells. According to Prof. Williams, “sanguinarine – the active ingredient in black salve – can cause severe tissue necrosis.” Always consult with a dermatologist to get suspected skin cancer diagnosed properly and discuss treatment options if confirmed.
In conclusion, our skin is a complex and fascinating organ, and there’s a lot of misinformation out there. By understanding what really works and what’s just a myth, we can take better care of our skin and appreciate its amazing functions. So, next time you’re tempted to believe a skincare myth, remember: the truth is out there!
