In the age of alternative facts, The Beauty Beat is here to straighten out some myths about skincare that just won’t die.
Oils can’t be used on oily skin
It seems counter intuitive to put oil on skin that is prone to oiliness, but hear me out. Face oils can not only help control oil production, but it can also soothe skin problems, smooth out dehydrated areas and add antioxidants to the skin. However, some oils such as olive oil can clog pores, so it’s important to pick ones that are light in texture or formulated especially for oily skin. If you’re a beginner and don’t want to splurge on a proper oil-based serum, jojoba oil is a popular choice as it most closely resembles the skin’s natural oils. Just a note: If you suffer from severe/cystic acne, oils are probably not for you. Always follow your dermatologist’s advice.
Pores can open and close
If I hear one more person say that heat can open pores and cold can close them, I’m going to burst. Pores are the openings of hair follicles, and no amount of heat variation is going to make them change shape. During a facial, steaming the face can help in soften blackheads and loosen sebum in the pores, thus making it easy to remove, but the pore is not physically opening. So stop heat shocking your skin and leave it alone.
Acne is caused by not washing enough
Dealing with severe acne can be an emotional and frustrating experience, and people who suffer from it don’t need to be told that they aren’t cleaning their face enough. I can guarantee it that they are. Pimples can be caused by pore-clogging substances such as silicones, oils and dirt, but those are not the only reasons. The fact is that acne is caused by many factors that include diet, hormones, genetics and food allergies. Cleansing is a vital part of any skincare routine, but overdoing it means stripping the skin of its natural oils and causing more harm.
Cellulite can be massaged/scrubbed/moisturised away
Have you ever tried to banish those dimples from your derriere and thighs? I’m here to burst your bubble and tell you it was an exercise in futility. Cellulite is nothing but naturally occurring fat deposits in the skin pushing through connective tissue. Around 80 to 90 per cent of women — no matter their size — have it and this is largely genetic. It certainly isn’t something to be ashamed of. No amount of scrubbing or moisturising can change the internal structure of the cellulite. Some products might help tighten and tone the skin, but what’s inside is still going to be the same.
Natural, ‘chemical’-free products are better
There are foods and plants that when used topically can help the skin — think honey, aloe vera and turmeric — but they will not be as effective as scientifically formulated skincare products. If you’re looking to target acne, wrinkles and dark spots, then chemicals are your best bet. We have come a long way in skincare science and it’s easier than ever to access safe and highly effective products to see real and visible results. Just FYI, chemicals are not evil. Even water is technically a chemical.
