5 Skincare Myths Debunked by Dr.Munk
- Posted on: Jun 28 2021
The journey to clear, glowing skin may seem like an unattainable feat that might have you seeking for answers across the internet for a quick solution. While this may be rewarding on occasion, it is important to remember that the web is a breeding ground for erroneous information. In fact, some of the skincare tips circulating online do more harm than good.
Achieving a radiant complexion might depend more on your ability to distinguish between fact from fiction rather than the actual products you purchase for every step of your skincare routine. To get to the bottom of some of the biggest skin care tips, Dr. Munk, expert dermatologist, is here to debunk 5 common skin care myths.
1. “Natural skincare products are better for your skin.”
With the natural beauty trend taking off, many are searching for natural skincare alternatives to treat their complexion, thinking they are “safer” options. However, natural-based skincare products are often unregulated and tend to contain botanicals and essential oils that can cause allergic reactions in your skin and irritate already sensitive skin. It’s important to remember that just because a product comes from nature, it doesn’t automatically make it safe or nontoxic.
2. “If retinol irritates your skin, stop using it.”
Retinol is undoubtedly a staple ingredient in any anti-aging routine. There is, however, a drawback when it comes to using retinol for the first time. New users can experience redness, dryness, and flaking. And this is where people run into trouble. Once people start to notice the side effects, they tend to stop using retinol altogether. Instead, you should adapt how and when you’re using retinol to allow your skin to acclimate to the new ingredient.
You should start by using retinol 1-2 times a week, and then slowly increase frequency as your skin builds tolerance. Likewise, you should only be using a pea sized amount for your entire face to reduce irritation.
3. “You don’t need sunscreen in the fall / winter.”
Wearing sunscreen only in the summer is a myth. Ultraviolet (UV) rays that cause sunburn are not as strong during the winter but are still present nonetheless. UV rays are one of the leading factors in premature aging that cause fine lines, wrinkles, and skin hyperpigmentation year round. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can penetrate through clouds so you should incorporate sunscreen in your daily routine all year round.
4. “There are topical products that work just as well as injections.”
Despite the great advancement in the quality of skincare products, topical creams work differently from injectables. Topical products are important for sun protection, delivering antioxidants to the skin, moisturization, and more; however, they cannot accomplish what injectables can. Injectables such as botox, will interfere with communication between the nerve and the muscle, something a topical product is not capable of doing. And that’s not all. Topical treatments cannot add the volume the way injectable fillers can. Rather than exclusively using topical products, use them in tandem with injectables to maintain the long-term effects.
5. “Your skin ages based on genetics.”
Genetics plays a significant role in how your skin ages, but the overall process is complex and is impacted by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. While we have no say over our genetics, you have more control over extrinsic factors such as taking preventative measures against sun damage, pollution, stress management, and avoiding smoking to slow down the signs of aging.
Have other skincare and aesthetics concerns? Contact us today to book a personalized consultation with Dr. Munk!
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