As the beauty industry continues to grow in size, so too do the innumerable skincare myths that circulate online, from shaving to sunscreen. Navigating through this wave of misinforming can be overwhelming and tricky, leaving you to wonder just how much you can trust these tips and tricks.
Given the sheer amount of conflicting information out there, it is no surprise that confusion around skincare products and practices runs rampant. Separating myth from reality can be especially difficult, given how quickly snippets of knowledge can be rehashed, exaggerated and spread in the digital age. That is why it’s important to consider the potential effects of these skincare myths and if they are founded in any form of reality.
In this article, we dive into some of the most pervasive stories surrounding skincare, looking closer at their historic and scientific roots to better doctorate fact from fiction. Could these myths be just misconceptions, or is there more to the story? Read on to find out.
The Origins of Skincare
No skincare myth can be considered in isolation. Before we can understand, process or challenge these narrative, it is important to revisit the history class basics on skincare itself.
Historically, one of the first written references on skincare dates back to ancient Egyptians. As early as 4,000 BC, Egyptians used various oils and creams to protect their skin from the scorching heat of the desert sun and believed that by carefully nurturing it, they could construct a stronger bond with the gods. In the middle ages, Romans similarly lauded the use of cosmetics and often sought to emulate Greek gods in their near-obsessive use of whitening lead-based creams.
Disregarding their methods, it was indeed clear that the oldest civilizations placed great emphasis on the importance of skincare. Males and females alike had developed a robust range of facial treatments throughout the years which consisted of anything from cleansing creams and wax masks to ointments used to lighten the face.
Understanding Our Skin
Now that we have established the foundation of skincare’s historical importance, let us take a closer look at skin itself – the largest organ in our bodies.
Our skin acts as a natural protective shield from bacterial and viral infections, and helps to regulate body temperature. It is made of three layers, with the outer layer being the most visible to the human eye. The epidermis is composed of growth cells that are continually shedding and renewing themselves. Underneath lies the dermis, which is a thicker layer full of collagen, protein and elastin, as well as blood vessels, sweat glands and nerve endings.
As part of continuous maintenance and upkeep, skin cells undergo a natural biological process known as skin turnover. This cycle helps to naturally eliminate dead skin cells and the toxins that accumulate and can cause dull, dry skin, acne and inflammation. Typically, skin renewal is said to take roughly two to four weeks, and some key factors can help to speed up the process, such as exfoliating, moisturizing and using the right sun protection.
Skincare Myths Busted
The myths surrounding skincare as wild and misinformed as they may be, do contain a seed of truth, born from historic and scientific components. Let’s break down just some of the most common misconceptions out there to help separate fact from fiction.
Myth: Makeup is Bad for Your Skin
Maybe in ancient times this would have been true, when the ingredients of skincare products were far more volatile and untested. But nowadays, as long as you apply makeup that doesn’t contain possibly harmful fillers, it can actually be beneficial for the skin. For example, a restorative face primer can boost the properties of subsequent treatments and a hydrating foundation can prime the skin for a natural flush.
Myth: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Faster
This is a myth likely born of the age-old facial myth that male beard growths could be encouraged with ritualistic strokes and oils. In reality, shaving only cuts away the visible portion of the hair follicle, leaving the underlying root to remain in place and regrow. Shaving can also stimulate hair follicles to produce thicker and more pronounced hair growth over time.
Myth: Tanning is Healthy
Back in the day, suntanning was seen as a sign of social status and health, but nowadays, we know that it is anything but. Studies have shown that not only does tanning damage the skin but it can also increase the user’s risk of developing skin cancer. Even those with naturally darker skin tones should be cautious when it comes to prolonged exposure to the sun, as this can still lead to a multitude of skin problems, from sunburn to hyperpigmentation.
Myth: Chocolate Causes Acne
High-sugar snacks are indeed not beneficial to your skin, but the jury is still out if chocolate directly leads to acne. The answer to this really depends on what type of chocolate you are consuming. For example, dark chocolate is generally much better for your skin than milk chocolate as it is far lower in sugar and is considered an antioxidant.
Myth: Sleeping With Makeup On Causes Premature Aging
It would be an understatement to say that this statement has been circulating ever since the inception of skincare products. But being too tired to take off your makeup once can leave its residue on your pillowcase, which can seep into your skin and cause clogged pores, breakouts and dehydration. The strain of trying to take off your makeup late in the night can equally contribute to the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, so it’s best to always take time for proper makeup removal.
Myth: You Don’t Need To Moisturize If You Have Oily Skin
Using a light moisturizer can actually be beneficial to those with particularly oily skin, since it can help to minimize sebum production. That being said, opt for lightweight and oil-free options if possible, as well as those that contain peptides and ceramides. This will ensure that you get the best out of your moisturizer, without it leaving a residue and clogging up your pores.
Myth: Sunscreen Is Unnecessary on Rainy Days
Rain or shine, if you’re exposed to the sun for long periods of time, applying sunscreen is a must. Despite its deceiving name, the sun ‘reflects’ off of other surfaces, like the clouds, and can do a number on your skin, leaving it prone to sunburn, inflammation and premature aging. You should also take extra precaution if you’re engaging in outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking or water sports, as these places are particularly notable for their intense heat and long-lasting rays.
Skincare myths have been floating around the beauty industry for many years, and it can be tough to separate fact from fiction. But by understanding the basics of skincare evolution, the makeup of our skin and the most sought-after tips and tricks, we can begin to dismantle these misconceptions, one at a time.
Take stock of the contradictory tips and tricks that get thrown your way and don’t be afraid to do your own research and form your own opinion. After all, your skin was given to you as a gift, so take good care of it and you’ll reap the benefits in no time.
