Three Skin Care Misconceptions You Shouldn't Fall For
In a society that focuses heavily on appearance, everyone seems to be offering the latest solution to all of your skincare woes. In fact, you've probably heard a lot of myths and misconceptions about how to take care of your skin. Unfortunately, some of these widespread misconceptions can actually cause more damage than they help treat. You can always work with a dermatologist to address specific concerns and create a treatment plan to avoid as much damage as possible. Here is a look at a few of the most common skincare myths and the facts you should know about them.
Your Face Benefits from Scrubbing with Soap
Whether you're using bar soap or a commercial facial cleanser, you shouldn't ever scrub the skin on your face. This can cause irritation, and it may even strip the protective barrier of skin oils from your face. The best thing to do when cleaning your face is to opt for a gentle cleanser and use a soft cloth. Don't get aggressive about the scrubbing, and make sure you follow up with moisturizer once you're done.
Myth: Sunscreen Only Matters If It's Sunny
One of the most common misconceptions about skincare is that you only need to worry about sunscreen when the sun is out. The truth is, UV radiation from the sun can reach the ground even through cloud cover. It is important to protect your skin no matter what the weather, so reach for the sunscreen every time you'll be outside. Reapply that sunscreen every few hours when you're outside as well as after swimming.
Myth: Age Spots Are Just Part of Getting Older
Although the name can be deceiving, age spots aren't a result of age. They are more common as you get older, but they're caused by years of accumulated exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays. While everyone is susceptible to age spots simply due to sun exposure, if your parents or other older family members have them, you may be more vulnerable.
Age spots aren't typically anything to be concerned about, but some people struggle with them simply because of their appearance. If you are unhappy with the cosmetics of age spots, a dermatologist can help you.
You've probably heard at least one of these myths, and you may even have believed it to be true. Understanding the facts behind the misconceptions will help ensure that you take the best possible care of your skin on a regular basis. For more information, talk to a professional like Dermatology Surgery Center.