When it comes to our skin, what we are given is what we have to work with. So, we are all guilty of giving in to the latest fad, over-the-top-expensive cream, or that new treatment that will break the bank, but is worth it in the end. When it comes to skincare, some women tend to absorb any and all information when it comes to helping keep those wrinkles away. That usually leads to us trying crazy new concoctions with our girlfriends, or trying that expensive product ˜because the lady on the TV said it would take 10 years off my face’. Don’t be fooled ladies; there are some big skin myths out there. Here are some of them to watch out for.
1) Every skincare regimen must consist of three steps.
While the routine of cleanse, tone and moisturize has its benefits, it is not a must do for everyone. If you have normal to dry skin, toning can help even your skin and unclog pores. But, if you are of the oily-skin variety, stripping your face of its protective layer, the oil, can make it react by just producing more. Bottom line: tone in moderation if you have oily skin.
2) Scrubbing and exfoliating makes skin glow.
When you exfoliate your skin on a regular basis, it gets rid of extra dead skin’s surface so you’ll get a ˜glow.’ You can use a mild scrub every day to help with exfoliation, but don’t use a harsh scrub that will cause damage to your skin.
3) You should buy that new foundation your friend uses because it makes her skin look flawless.
This is one of the biggest mistakes women can make when it comes to cosmetics. Just because your slightly darker-skinned friend looks like a L’Oreal model when she wears this new foundation, doesn’t mean you will too. Your friend will most likely have a different skin type than you, and a different skin regime. Bottom line: go with what works for you and your skin; share clothes with your friends, not make up.
4) Squeezing pimples and blackheads is the best way to get rid of them.
It is addicting, we all do it, and we all know we shouldn’t. Even though your pores will be unclogged after the popping and squeezing occurs, they will fill right back up with dirt and oil in no time. Bottom line: avoid long hours in front of the mirror and use pore unclogging nose strips, or gentle acid peels to get rid of those unwanted imperfections.
5) By using a foundation with an SPF, you are fully protected from the sun.
While using a foundation with an SPF is a smart move, it does not fully protect you from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Unless you are slathering on layers of foundation throughout the day, you aren’t getting enough sun protection. Bottom line: use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 as well as your foundation for all-around skin protection.
