Debunking Skincare Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction
When it comes to skincare, there is a lot of misinformation and myths circulating online and through word-of-mouth. In the age of social media, skincare myths can spread like wildfire, making it increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction. From old wives' tales to outdated advice, it's crucial to be discerning about the sources you rely on for skincare information. As a dermatologist, I want to debunk some of the most common skincare myths and provide you with evidence-based guidance for achieving and maintaining healthy, glowing skin.
The Role of Social Media in Creating Myths
Social media platforms have become breeding grounds for skincare myths and pseudoscience. Influencers and celebrities with no formal training in dermatology often promote unproven or potentially harmful skincare trends and products to their millions of followers. While social media can be a useful tool for sharing information, it's essential to exercise caution and fact-check claims against reputable sources.
An Example of Social Media Influencers Misinformation
For example, Kim Kardashian faced backlash from dermatologists when she promoted using tanning beds to treat her psoriasis on Instagram. Tanning beds are not safe as they increase your risk for skin cancer, particularly the deadliest form of skin cancer - melanoma. In reality, sun burning or burning the skin with a tanning bed can actually worsens psoriasis as any trauma to the skin oftentimes worsens psoriasis. This illustrates how social media trends can dangerously contradict medical advice.
It also highlights partial truths because narrow band UVB (nbUVB) can be helpful for treating psoriasis and treatment devices can appear similar to tanning beds, but they are very different. They do not deliver UVA rays to the skin and delivery a specific wavelength of less harmful nbUVB light to the skin.
Getting your healthcare advice from experts: physicians specifically trained in the relevant specialty who are board-certified is best. Let’s debunk some skincare myths.
Myth #1: You Need Expensive Products
One of the most persistent myths is that you need to invest in expensive, luxury skincare products to have good skin. The truth is, while some high-end products may contain advanced formulations, many affordable drugstore brands offer effective and scientifically proven ingredients. The key is to look for products that contain active ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, and alpha-hydroxy acids, which have been extensively studied and proven to improve skin health.
Myth #2: Tanning Beds are Safe for Vitamin D
While this may seem redundant given the Kardashian example above. Avoiding tanning beds and tanning is so important that it is worth revisiting. Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation which increases skin cancer and premature aging risk. While vitamin D is important, it's better obtained from diet, fortified foods or supplements if needed. There are no safe UV levels from tanning beds.
Myth #3: Popping Pimples Helps
While it may be tempting to pop a pimple, this can actually worsen the situation and lead to scarring or infection. It's best to leave pimples alone and let them heal on their own. If you have a stubborn breakout, consult a dermatologist for professional treatment options. A dermatologist can inject a cystic acne breakout with steroids or saline to help clear things up more quickly.
Myth #4: Sunscreen is Only Needed on Sunny Days
UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, so it's essential to wear sunscreen every day, regardless of the weather. Broad-spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of at least 30 should be applied to all exposed skin, including often-overlooked areas like the ears, lips, and hands.
Myth #5: Chocolate Causes Acne
There is no scientific evidence linking chocolate consumption to acne breakouts. Dairy and acne have been shown to be related so it is best to avoid dairy in your diet if you are struggling with persistent acne.
By debunking these common skincare myths, you can make more informed decisions about your skin health and avoid falling for ineffective or potentially harmful advice. When it comes to skincare, it's crucial to rely on credible sources, such as board-certified dermatologists and scientific research in reputable peer reviewed journals like JAMA, rather than blindly following social media trends or unsubstantiated claims.