Trick Or Treat? Skincare Myths!
With Halloween right around the corner, we look forward to dressing up as ghosts and ghouls and getting creative with our holiday makeup. But don’t use too much of this as it causes spots. Or does it? Our latest blog clears up which skincare myths are helpful and which are misconceptions.
Makeup Causes Spots
FALSE! Makeup itself should not cause spots. It is closely linked to breakouts due to its application and removal. Makeup brushes carry germs and bacteria. To avoid spreading them to your face, wash your brushes and sponges regularly or apply foundation with clean, dry fingers. Removing your makeup at the end of the day is essential in the fight against breakouts. Spots develop when pores become clogged with oils, dead skin cells and makeup.
Hot Water Opens The Pores
FALSE! Our pores are not temperature-sensitive. This means that hot water will not cause them to open, however, there is logic behind using heated water to wash your face. Warm water is effective in removing excess sebum and dead skin cells that may have accumulated within the pores. It is this mixture that causes pores to become enlarged. Once removed, pore size appears reduced.
Skincare Myths: Skincare Products Have A Shelf Life
TRUE! All skincare products are stamped with an expiry date. Look for the symbol that looks like a jar containing a number with an open lid. The number tells you how many months you have to enjoy your product once opened. Skincare products harbour bacteria that can irritate the skin and, in extreme cases, lead to infections. If you can’t remember when you bought your creams, serums or makeup, it is probably time to restock.
Your Skin Becomes Immune To Repeatedly Used Skincare Products
FALSE! Tachyphylaxis describes a decrease in response to a medication that may result in a tolerance, making a product ineffective. This is incredibly rare in terms of skincare, with the exception of topical steroids for conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
If your skincare products seem to be less effective than in previous months, it might be due to an overall improvement in the health of your skin. This sounds counterintuitive, but you experience the most noticeable response to a product after its first use. Over time, the product continues to work, meaning you experience less adverse effects such as redness or dryness.
Junk Food Causes Acne
FALSE! We are often told as children that greasy food gives you spots. Whilst refined sugar and high GI (glycemic index) foods may exacerbate symptoms of acne, they are not the sole cause of breakouts. Acne is the result of overactive sebaceous glands and the excessive production of sebum. This means that reducing your intake of junk food alone will not be sufficient in fighting the battle against acne.
Your Lips Are Especially Prone To Moisture Loss
TRUE! More moisture is lost through the lips than any other part of the face or body. This can cause them to become chapped and dry. However tempting, try to resist picking flaking skin as this slows down the healing process. Licking dry lips worsens the problem, with further chapping occurring as the saliva evaporates.
People With Sensitive Skin Should Not Exfoliate
FALSE! Exfoliating once a week can help to clear dead skin cells and unclog pores. This allows the skin to absorb more moisture so should not be avoided, regardless of skin type. If you have sensitive skin, opt for exfoliators with mild ingredients and apply with a gentle method that will not irritate the skin.
Aesthetic Treatments Are For People Over 30
FALSE! Cosmetic procedures are primarily undertaken by those fighting the signs of ageing. For most people, these effects first become visible in their thirties, however, aesthetic treatments are as much about preventing the effects of ageing as addressing them. It is advisable to begin a robust skincare regime, including regular visits to your cosmetic practitioner, if you wish to maximise your youthful years.
Book Your Consultation At RP Aesthetics
To understand how best to care for your skin and avoid skincare myths, book a consultation with aesthetics expert Richard Peppiatt. With over 10 years of experience, Richard is able to examine your skin and recommend the most appropriate treatments to slow down the ageing process or reduce symptoms of common skin conditions. To book your appointment, call 0191 281 8775 or make an enquiry via our website.