Don’t Believe the Hype: 5 Skin-Care Myths That Can Destroy Your Skin

We all want a beautiful complexion. And we’d all prefer to remain frugal in our spending on our quest to obtain it. That’s what compels people to look for skincare advice on the internet. People worldwide are happy to share skincare hacks for acne, wrinkles, sun damage, and other skin concerns— but many of these at-home skincare remedies can end up costing you far more than your regular trip to your local aesthetician.

Want a beautiful, radiant complexion? Then say no to:

1. Putting Toothpaste on Pimples

Ingredients in toothpaste such as peroxide and baking powder are there to help you achieve a beautiful smile— not treat your pimples. Although applying toothpaste to breakouts may initially cause a reduction in redness and swelling, you’re likely unable to see the irritation the toothpaste is causing your skin. Topically applying toothpaste to your skin can lead to unsightly scars and skin discoloration. Opt for spot treatments with active ingredients that combat acne instead, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, or retinol. But always be sure to consult a skin care professional before applying any topical treatment to your skin to determine the most effective approach for your skin’s unique needs.

SkinCenter offers a wide range of effective skincare treatments specialized in stopping acne in its tracks, such as laser treatments, blue light acne treatment, prescription medications, and more. Contact a skincare specialist today to find the treatment option that’s right for you.

2. Using Cheap Skin Care Products

Many internet gurus claim that all beauty products are costly nonsense and that all you need for healthy skin is regular, thorough scrubbing with soap or cheap cleansers and water, but this advice is just flat out wrong. While soap effectively removes dirt, sweat, and grime from your face, it also strips your skin of essential oils. The result? Dry, irritated, unhealthy skin.

Using the proper cleanser for your skin type is an essential element of any effective skin care regimen. Not sure about your skin type or which products would be best for you? Consult a SkinCenter skincare specialist. Our experts will point you towards the right products that cleanse your skin of unwanted debris while still maintaining its protective oils. We recommend the SkinCeuticals and Neocutis skincare lines for cleansing, toning, repairing, moisturizing, and protecting the skin for healthy, radiant results.

3. The Mayo Mask

The mayonnaise face mask claims to hydrate the skin, but don’t be fooled. While the eggs and oil in mayo are suitable for treating your split ends, applying it to your skin is never a good idea. First of all, mayo is comedogenic, meaning it contains oils that clog pores and exacerbate acne breakouts. What’s more, most mayonnaise is made with soybean oil— an inflammatory agent that can throw off the estrogen levels in your body and cause hormonal breakouts. Try microdermabrasion or one of SkinCenter’s Signature Facials instead for a healthier, brighter complexion.

4. Mistaking “Natural” Skincare for Safe Skincare

Just because something comes from nature doesn’t mean it’s safe to apply to your skin. Take poison ivy, for instance. Many people are unaware that they are allergic to certain essential oils or botanicals. As a result, they can obtain contact dermatitis (or worse) after using an unregulated natural skincare product. Do your research when it comes to your skincare products, and always, always do a 24-hour test on a tiny area of skin near the intended treatment area prior to performing a complete application. If you prefer to play it safe, simply ask one of our skincare specialists to help you select the safest products for you!

5. Only Using Sunscreen in the Summer

False. False. False! The sun’s harmful UV rays don’t take a break three seasons out of the year, and neither should you. Considering sun exposure is the culprit for approximately 90% of skin aging (according to The Skin Cancer Foundation), you should be taking measures to protect your skin with adequate SPF every single day (that is, if you want to ward off sun damage, wrinkles, sun spots, aging, and most importantly, skin cancer). Our rule of thumb? If the sun is up, your SPF should be, too! Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen like SkinCeuticals Light Moisture UV Defense SPF 50, which is oil-free, fragrance-free, paraben-free, non-comedogenic, and profoundly hydrating. You can learn more about this product here.

Categories:  Skin Care Tips
Tags:  acne, acne treatments, Adult acne treatments, best skincenter, Facials, Microdermabrasion, Neocutis, skin care, Skincare, Skincare Myths, SkinCeuticals, Summer skin care, summer skin tips, Westchester Skin Care, Westchester Skin Rejuvenation, Westchester Skin Treatments