Trying to navigate the world of skincare and beauty can be an absolute minefield.
When it comes to skincare and what you ‘should’ and ‘shouldn’t’ do - the online rumour mill can run WILD. Before you waste money on useless products or even harm your skin, let’s debunk some of the more common myths you might have heard.
Skincare Myth 1: If The Ingredients Are The Same, Go For The Cheaper Option
Creating skincare is a lot like cooking; while the ingredients are super important the execution is, ultimately, the make or break. The technology and process used to create formulas make all the difference.
Just because two products may contain the same or similar ingredients doesn't mean they are alike.
Skincare Myth 2: If You Have Acne, Clean Your Skin Multiple Times A Day
Trust us when we say, we know how tempting this can be! When you have acne it can feel all consuming. There are sooo many do’s and don’ts out there but we can help you by debunking this particular myth.
When our skin is inflamed with acne it is important that we treat it well but, most of all, treat it gently.
Over-washing and cleansing can cause further irritation to the already inflamed skin. Stick to the double-cleanse method twice a day.
Pimple patches will also be your new best friend! These clear stickers are made of hydrocolloid and actively draw out the liquid while protecting your skin from outside influences. They also assist with preventing any scarring. Our best-sellers are Subi Perfect Pimple Patch.
Skincare Myth 3: Purging and Breaking Out Are The Same Thing
Purging is what happens when we start increasing our skin cell turnover. This happens when we start incorporating products like Retinol, Vitamin C and AHA’s into our skincare routine.
As we age, these ingredients are awesome because they promote skin regeneration. Essentially, they are giving us new skin faster. However, as our new healthy skin is coming through, it can also bring to the surface some unwanted friends…excess sebum, flakes and oil build up. All of which are the perfect storm for creating pimples.
The good news?
Pimples from a purge have a much faster life than standard acne breakouts and will usually clear up in a few days. If you have just started using retinoids, then give your skin time to purge – around 4 – 6 weeks. If you still have issues a few months in its best to speak with a specialist.
If you still aren’t sure whether your skin is purging or reacting jump onto this episode of the podcast:
Skincare Myth 4: If You Have Olive or Dark Skin Then You Can Skip The Sunscreen
No! No! No!
And one more time for the people in the back NO!
This is ESPECIALLY true for those of us living in Australia where our ozone layer has been depleted.
UV rays, both UVB (the rays that burn your skin) and UVA (the rays that age you), are the enemy of our skin. We don’t just mean superficially either.
Skin cancer kills around 2000 Australians a year and impacts many, many more. We will never stop telling you to, "Slip, Slop, Slap".
If you are after that luxurious golden summer tan, then make your way straight to the fake tan aisle - then go and pick up some more sunscreen! Don’t forget that fake tan doesn’t protect you from the sun’s UV rays.
And while we are on this rant, please don’t forget that it’s sunscreen every day! UV rays can still affect you rain, hail or shine so please pop this into your morning routine EVERY. SINGLE. DAY.
Skincare Myth 5: Dermatology Tested Products Are Better
This is another marketing trap. While it sounds professional and impressive, when you dig a little deeper ‘dermatologist tested’ doesn’t mean much more than… well… that. While a dermatologist may have ‘trialled’ the product out on test subjects this could simply be 10 people with normal skin.
It also gives no indication as to whether the dermatologist liked the products or even thought they were effective. It merely refers to the fact that it was tested.
So what do we recommend?
Always patch test a product before you use it and if you have sensitive skin keep an eye out for ingredients that keep causing issues.
Got more?!
If there are any beauty myths or rumours that you are still unsure about simply reach out to us! We are always happy to help however we can.
