Skincare Myths

Caring for your skin to make sure it’s healthy and beautiful is important. However, there is a lot of misinformation about this very topic. Myths of skin care are rampant on the internet and beauty magazines. Here are some of the myths…debunked!

Myth #1: Drink more water for dry skin.
If you suffer from dry skin, you might think that drinking more water will help but dry skin isn’t as simple as that. In fact, drinking more water won’t make dry skin better. Studies have shown that water content of dry skin, normal skin, and oily skin have very insignificant differences. Dry skin occurs when the substances between skin cells are depleted and damaged; thus, becoming rough, uneven, flaky and allows water to be lost. Drinking more water won’t moisturize your skin unless the outer barrier is maintained. Therefore, the treatment of dry skin should come from the outside, i.e., by applying a moisturizer to re-hydrate their skin and maintain their outer barrier. It’s also important to protect your skin by avoiding irritating ingredients, sun damage, harsh chemicals and fragrance.

Myth #2: Tanning clears up acne.
One of the most common skincare misconception is that tanning can help with acne. First and most importantly, there is no doubt that tanning and sun exposure in general cause skin cancer, such as melanoma. Although acne breakouts are less noticeable after tanning, it doesn’t completely heal or prevent acne. Tanning covers up skin’s redness and dries up the surface of your skin, which may help some blemishes fade temporarily. However, it is not a permanent solution. In fact, tanning actually causes skin irritation and weakens your skin’s natural barrier. In addition, too much sun can break down collagen that keeps your skin elastic, which can lead to the formation of wrinkles and fine lines. I recommend that everyone wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every time they are outside, even on cloudy days. As far as acne goes, there are many safer and more effective acne treatments than exposing yourself to sun’s harmful rays.

Myth #3: It’s better to pop pimples.
Although popping pimples makes them less noticeable for the time being, it doesn’t prevent future acne breakouts and can cause scarring of the “popped” pimple. When you squeeze a pimple, the pus actually goes deeper and pushes bacteria, dead skin, and oil further into your skin. This causes more inflammation, swelling, and redness and can also lead to acne scars and even more breakouts. These acne marks can last for months or years and even create permanent lasting scars. The best treatment for acne is treating current breakouts and preventing future breakouts form happening. I also tell all patients that it is crucial not to pick at their face. The residual redness, hyperpigmentation and scarring can last for a very long time. Although it may be hard to resist, it’s better to not pop your pimples.

To effectively treat your skin care needs, consult with a dermatologist who can provide you with the best advice for treatment. Visit Dr. Gary Goldenberg at Goldenberg Dermatology to set up your consultation.