It’s easy to get caught up in the swirling mass of conflicting skincare advice, as we embrace becoming digitally savvy consumers where information is at the “click” of our computer mouse and in front of us in seconds.
One wrong click can see you convinced that, to have a complexion that glows, you need (!) to buy that $400 serum, or to help balance your oily complexion, you need to soak it in Apple Cider Vinegar.
Highlighting some of those, well-circulated myths out there, will hopefully see you on your way to making better informed decisions when it comes to taking care of your skin.
Read on for four myths we are dissolving today!
Myth #1 Drinking 2L of water a day is enough to hydrate your skin.
There is no question of how important water consumption is to the day-to-day functioning of our bodies, however often not even half the amount of water is absorbed by the skin.
That is because whilst your skin is the largest organ in the body, it’s not high on the priority list as far as your other vital organs go. Imagine that 2L of water needs to go to your cardiovascular system, brain, lungs, kidneys and so on, often not leaving much behind for the skin to maintain its optimal hydration levels.
That is why external hydration plays such a large part in keeping your skin hydrated and happy. Opt for a moisturiser that is rich in humectants (molecules that will help bind moisture to the skin) and select a texture that suits your skin type.
Myth #2 Oily skin types should not use a moisturiser.
One of the most readily embraced myths floating around the internet suggests that if you have an oily skin type you do not need to use a moisturiser. But here’s the catch, the more dehydrated your skin becomes, the more it will overcompensate by producing MORE oil.
All skin types need a moisturiser, the key is not to avoid a moisturiser all together but find a formulation that suits your skin type. Remembering that the difference between a water and oil is that water hydrates, and oil nourishes and protects the skin. If you have an oily skin type look for moisturisers that are high in water binding ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid.
Myth #3 You should exfoliate daily.
Repeat after me, you do not need to exfoliate every day! In fact, exfoliating every day can cause a cascade of issues for your skin.
The purpose of exfoliation (using either a physical or chemical exfoliant) is to remove the top layer of the epidermis which is comprised of hard, dull skin cells. When done properly it helps to provide a clearer complexion and allow for better absorption of active ingredients. However, when done too often, you run the risk of greatly impairing your moisture barrier.
Your moisture barrier A.K.A your acid mantle is your skin’s first line of defence against pollution, dirt and bacteria. A clear sign you have over exfoliated is if your skin becomes red, tight, and abnormally sensitive.
Over exfoliating can also cause damage to the skin by way of broken capillaries (particularly around the nose area).
For best results make sure to only exfoliate 1-2 times per week (dependent on your skin needs and concerns).
Myth #4 Sleeping in your makeup is ok.
We have all been there. A late return home, and all you want to do is change into some comfy clothes and hop straight into bed while simultaneously wondering if one night of wearing makeup to bed will have much effect on the skin?!
Now whilst one instance of wearing your makeup to bed isn’t the worst thing in the world, it’s also not great for the skin. The cumulation of makeup, dirt and oils from your day begins to clog the pores from the minute your hours-old foundation hits the pillow, eventually resulting in blemishes. Not to mention all the urban pollution that settles into your makeup is now part of your nightly routine, giving free radicals more time to cause chaos to the skin.