Feeling overwhelmed by so-called rules about what you should–and shouldn’t do–with your hair, skin or makeup?
Lighten your load by forgetting these four outdated beliefs.
A tan will make you look younger, thinner, and healthier
A healthy golden glow is something that is admired and envied in western culture, but there are a number of reasons why staying out of the sun (and tanning beds) is smarter. Both the sun’s harsh rays and the UV rays emitted from tanning beds can lead to cell mutation and skin cancer.
It’s absolutely not worth it to sacrifice your health for the sake of a tan.
The good news? There are numerous ways to fake it: bronzer, self-tanners and even airbrushed faux tans at the spa (which can even help you fake the appearance of six-pack abs!).
Stay out of the sun and wear sunscreen (at least SPF 30). Though you may not be worried about aging gracefully now, you’ll be thankful later, when you are sans sunspots, mega-wrinkles and leathery-looking skin.
Lather, rinse, repeat
Haircare professionals and product companies have been touting this phrase for decades. The reality is that over-shampooing can strip your hair of its natural oils and make it produce even more of them. It’s actually better to avoid shampooing too often.
If you can get away with it, try to wash your hair every other day, and when you do, stick to the lather and rinse”without repeat.
Exfoliate daily for smooth skin
Exfoliating is a great way to lift away dead skin cells to reveal smoother skin beneath. However, exfoliating too often can strip away your skin’s protective oils, making it produce more oil and causing it to become sensitive.
If you have thin, dry or sensitive skin, it’s best to exfoliate just once per week.
If your skin is thicker or oilier, it’s safe to exfoliate twice a week.
Doing it on the daily? Time to switch up your skincare routine, and use a gentle cleanser instead. You’ll notice calmer skin and possibly even fewer breakouts.
To help oily skin, use oil-free products
The best products to use are the ones that work for your skin. If you’re wary of oil-based products because you tend to get oily skin or breakouts, you may be avoiding what will work best for you.
Oil free products do get rid of oil, but over time your skin starts to produce more oil in order to make up for the oils that are being stripped away. This results in over-productive oil glands, and maybe even more breakouts.
Experiment with products and forget this beauty rule unless it works for your skin type.
Is there a beauty rule that you like to break? Tell us about it in the comments!
Comments