7 Skincare Myths You Need To Know Before You Begin Your Regimen

With so many skincare products vying for our attention, it can be challenging to know what to apply and what to avoid. Choosing the right skincare routine tailored to your skin type is crucial.

Your skin is the largest organ of your body, making it essential to keep it flawless and glowing. With so many skincare products vying for our attention, it can be challenging to know what to apply and what to avoid. Choosing the right skincare routine tailored to your skin type is crucial. Stockpiling products isn't the answer. If you're feeling unsure about what to keep or toss, we’re here to clear the confusion by debunking some widespread skincare myths.

SKINCARE MYTHS YOU NEED TO KNOW:

1. Antioxidants Reverse Wrinkles: They are a great tool for combating the effects of ageing. While they help prevent skin damage and reduce inflammation, they do not reverse the signs of ageing.

2. People With Oily Skin Don’t Need To Moisturise: People with oily skin often think they don’t need to moisturise, but that’s a misconception. Moisturising is still essential because it offers numerous benefits. If you skip it, your skin can dry out, triggering an overproduction of oil as a natural response. Opt for a non-comedogenic moisturiser, which won’t clog your pores.

3. The SPF In Your Makeup Is Enough: Relying on the SPF in your makeup isn’t enough. Although some makeup, serums, or creams contain SPF, they don’t offer complete sun protection. These products typically shield you from UVA rays, but to truly guard your skin, you need protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Actives Will Work The Same Regardless Of The Formulation: This is a myth. Active ingredients rely on various elements within a formula to be effective. The type of ingredients used plays a crucial role in how well they penetrate the skin. The formula’s base—whether it’s an emulsion, cream, lightweight serum, or essence—also significantly influences absorption.

5. Toothpaste Treat Pimples: While the paste may have a drying effect and the zinc in some toothpaste can offer anti-inflammatory benefits, ingredients like fluoride or menthol might irritate inflamed skin and potentially worsen the condition. It’s best to consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment.

6. Natural Or Organic Products Are Always Better For Your Skin: People think that chemical-free or natural is a better choice for treating specific skin issues, as they do not contain synthetic ingredients. However, choosing skincare products with gentle chemical ingredients possessing specific medicated properties will help relieve particular skin conditions. Avoid harsh chemicals like PEG, alcohol, sulfates, parabens, or added fragrances, as they might irritate your skin.

7. We Can Get Rid Of Wrinkles And Fine Lines Completely: Many anti-ageing products are marketed with claims like "achieve youthful skin overnight" or "look 25 years younger with this anti-wrinkle treatment." However, it's a common misconception that these products can completely erase wrinkles or other signs of ageing, and such claims often turn out to be scams or marketing gimmicks.

Several anti-ageing products from reputed brands are formulated with powerful ingredients like rosehip oil, retinol, or glycolic acid. These potent ingredients are effective for ageing skin, as they can slow down the ageing signs but not erase them magically. They work by improving collagen production and lowering the occurrence of wrinkles and fine lines. These products can take a few weeks to enhance skin elasticity and firmness but can’t erase existing wrinkles.

With these points in mind, choose your skincare products thoughtfully, as every skin type benefits from appropriate products and a consistent routine. Don’t expect instant results when starting a new skincare regimen. Remember, your lifestyle, diet, and sleep are also crucial in achieving healthier skin.

(Mubarika Noor is pursuing M.A. (Mass Communication) from Aligarh Muslim University)