We've all heard of those age-old beauty rules that our moms (and maybe even grandmas) used to follow. But with new research and beauty innovations, it's time to kick these beauty myths to the curb:
Here are six beauty myths you shouldn't believe:
Oil makes you break out
If you've had acne or blemishes, or even oily skin, you've probably been advised to go "oil-free." But, one of the best ways to fight oil is, well, with oil! Here's the thing – even the oiliest skin needs moisture. If you skip out on moisturizing, your skin will start to produce more oil to compensate for the dryness. Plus, cleansing oils are a great way to gently remove even the most stubborn makeup.
Try: Shu Uemura Fresh Pore Clarifying Gentle Cleansing Oil, $82.
You shouldn't brush wet hair
Combing or brushing your hair while it's wet makes it easier to detangle (especially when you use conditioner!). As long as you're using the right type of brush, and are combing through your hair gently (remember, wet hair is fragile!) you are good to go.
Try: Goody QuikStyle Comb, $7.47
Black eyeliner makes your eyes look bigger
The opposite is true — lighter shades of makeup will make your eyes look bigger, while darker shades will make them look smaller. Instead of using black, opt for a brown shade. To make your eyes look even bigger, line the inside rim of your eye with white eyeliner.
Try: CoverGirl Perfect Point Plus Eyeliner in Espresso, $7.49; Rimmel London Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil in Pure White, $5.99
Trimming your hair will make it grow faster
Not too sure how this myth came to be so popular…how on earth would trimming the ENDS of your hair make the hair from your scalp grow faster? If anything, a good trim will make your hair look fuller, thicker and more healthy, but sorry ladies, your mane won't be growing faster than usual.
Toothpaste will get rid of acne
I was totally guilty of believing this myth when I was growing up, and in turn, slathered toothpaste over any blemish that popped up. It did nothing for me, really, except make my face smell minty fresh (which is kind of weird, to be honest). Though it does have a drying effect, and the menthol can cool down inflammation, there are other ingredients that could irritate your skin. Instead, use a product with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
Try: Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Eliminating Spot Gel, $11.49
You only need SPF when it's sunny
According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 40 per cent of the sun's ultraviolet radiation reaches the earth on a completely cloudy day. They also say that even if you work inside, you can still be exposed to harmful UV rays throughout the day, especially if you work near windows. Luckily, plenty of beauty products already come with SPF, so you won't need to slather on sunscreen along with the rest of your makeup regime.
Try: NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30, $49
