As you already know, not everything we read on the internet is accurate, especially when it comes to the skin. The truth of the matter is, “A lot of skincare advice just doesn’t work, and some skincare myths can even cause harm,” reports Forbes Magazine in an article on the subject.
The skin experts at Austin Clinic couldn’t agree more. That’s why our team got together to help squash these myths with the best weapon we have: the facts.
Are eye creams a waste of my money?
No … and yes. The answer is yes, as you are using a product marketed as targeting the eyes, but normally it’s actually nothing more than a facial moisturiser. That’s not good enough. “The skin around your eyes is thinner and more fragile than the rest of the face,” says Dr Austin. “Traditional moisturisers are too heavy for this sensitive area and can irritate the delicate skin.” She recommends products such as Aspect Dr Eyelift, which are specially formulated to address ageing skin around the eyes, without irritation.
Do retinoids and acids like AHA and BHA thin my skin?
Quite the contrary. Acids and retinoids are valuable for their ability to help promote cell turnover. Over time, this makes skin more resilient and thicker, too. “If you are using retinoids and acids,” cautions Dr Austin, “be sure to remember sun protection, as they make your skin more sun-sensitive.” Revision Skincare’s Intellishade TruPhysical is a great option. It is a 100% mineral sunscreen that includes over 20 anti-ageing ingredients in its formulation.
Does a burning sensation mean my skincare product is working?
No! Skincare products such as vitamin C serums and acids may cause a tingling sensation, but it should not be unpleasant. If a product burns your skin after you apply it, remove it immediately and contact Austin Clinic to talk things over.
Is the sunscreen in my make-up enough to protect me?
Probably not. “The SPF of most make-up products isn’t high enough to protect you adequately against UVA and UVB damage.” Instead, Austin Clinic recommends a layered approach to sun protection. Start with a broad-based sunscreen such as Austin Skin’s own Ultra Protect, then move on to your make-up to keep your complexion beautiful and healthy.
Can I skip wearing sunscreen in the winter and on cloudy days?
No, you may not. Though you may be getting less sun exposure, it is still enough to damage your skin.
I don’t need sunscreen because I’m indoors all day, right?
Wrong. It may surprise you to learn that UVA rays can penetrate window glass and affect your skin. “Some indoor lighting can emit UVA rays too,” says Dr Austin. Think of sun protection as a year-round activity.
I had my pigmentation treated, is it gone for good now?
Regrettably, pigmented skin and dark spots need constant attention. After a treatment, dark spots will return if you don’t use a lightening product regularly and consistently. “Hyperpigmentation is another important reason to wear sunscreen daily,” says Dr Austin. “Sun exposure can also activate hyperpigmentation.”
Is hot water the best way to clean and open pores?
No, it is not. First of all, pores do not open and close. They are themselves, an opening in the skin, which can become clogged. Hot water makes it worse. “Heat causes the outer layers of skin to become swollen, which in turn makes pores look bigger and more open,” explains Dr Austin. “Hot water can also exacerbate rosacea.” She recommends the regular use of exfoliants like allmedic’s Active Exfoliating Scrub for clean, healthy skin and happy pores.
You can never over-exfoliate your skin, right?
This is a myth that reminds us of the old MTV slogan, “Too much is never enough.” It’s true that exfoliation removes dead skin cells to allow new, radiant skin to come through. At the same time, if you’re over-exfoliating, you will end up with skin that is dry, irritated, and even raw. The team at Austin Clinic works with patients to help them find the best exfoliating product, such as Aspect’s Exfoliating Clay Mask, and create a personalised regimen for its use.
Can I get rid of acne with vigorous face washing?
Keeping your skin clean is an important part of controlling minor breakouts as well as acne. Over-cleansing, however, will likely make things worse. “Excess cleansing and exfoliating break down your skin’s protective barrier,” explains Dr Austin. The result isn’t acne-free skin, but rather skin that is irritated, dehydrated, and more prone to breakouts.
Should I go for that squeaky clean feeling when I wash my face?
“Squeaky clean is for dishes, not your skin,” says Dr Austin. Skin that is squeaky clean has likely been stripped of its natural oils, leaving it at risk of dryness and worse. Most days, an extremely gentle cleanser such as Avene’s Tolerence may be all you need. If you want exfoliation too, think about Aspect Dr’s Deep Clean purifying cleanser.
Do people with oily skin need to use stronger cleansers and serums?
Not really. If you use intense cleansers and serums, you run the risk of causing oil cells to produce more oil. Instead, adding new, healthy oils to the skin as part of a skincare regiment will keep the oil in your skin controlled and balanced.
For Mythic Skin, Visit Austin Clinic
It’s a fact, not a myth, that proper skincare can transform your complexion. If you would like help understanding the why and how of your skincare issues, along with information on how to solve them, we invite you to contact our friendly team or book online today.