Myth vs. Reality: 9 Skincare Myths Worth Busting
Reality: “While it’s tempting to have a super toasty shower in the colder months, it’s not the best for the health of your skin. Scalding hot water is drying and even can damage capillaries. Turn the temp down a bit to keep your skin balanced and avoid excessive dryness. If you can’t bring yourself to lower the temperature, you’ll need to counteract that dryness with some extra moisture. A360 Plydration Serum FTW!” —Suzy
The Myth: If I’m only outside for 10 minutes at a time, I don’t need to wear sunscreen.
Reality: “Well, 10 minutes a day might seem relatively insignificant — but it really adds up! Anytime we are outside during daylight hours we are exposed to harmful UVA/UVB radiation and other environmental stress, which can easily be prevented by applying sunscreen. Developing a good relationship with a daily broad-spectrum sunscreen will slow the aging process, reduce your risk of skin cancer and also prevent the reversal of your in-office treatments … So when you think about it, 10 minutes a day really isn’t so insignificant.” —Aaron
Myth: You should not exfoliate sensitive skin.
Myth: Only teenagers get acne.
Reality: “There are many factors, both internal and external, that can contribute to acne — not just teenage hormones. Clogged pores, excessive oil production, bacteria that trigger an inflammatory response, hormonal changes (not just puberty!) and diet can contribute to acne formation. Your aesthetician will be able to help determine the cause of your acne so we can better treat it. That’s why honest, one-on-one consultations with your aesthetician are so important!” —Suzy
The Myth? Preparation H will ease eye puffiness
Reality: “While it sounds good in theory, it’s not! Preparation H constricts blood vessels, which helps with inflammation — great for the area it’s formulated for (AHEM) but it is not formulated for the very sensitive and delicate eye area. Plus, there is a risk of clogged pores when using this product under the eyes, as the under-eye is already at high risk for milia formation. The makers of Preparation H also advise against using this product on the under-eye because of potential damage to your eyes — which might be permanent. The bottom line? Consult your A360 aesthetician about safe and proven medical-grade skincare options for easing your under-eye puffiness. And just say no to this dangerous and ineffective ‘quick fix!’” —Aaron
Myth: Antioxidants will reverse wrinkles.
Myth: “Dermatologist Tested” makes a product trustworthy.
Reality: “There are definitely some nuances with this one. A ‘dermatologist tested or approved’ product simply means that a dermatologist reviewed the product — it does not mean they necessarily liked or disliked it. It also doesn’t mean there was a clinical trial, or even that a dermatologist endorses it. In other words, it’s a risk. This is why we stress the importance of a personalized, individual treatment plan created with your clinical aesthetician. The active ingredients in medical-grade skincare products, like those at A360, are subject to medical regulation — which means they have been proven safe and effective by myriad studies and clinical trials. And we can choose the right product for you and your skin. I like those odds!” —Suzy
Myth: Your lips won’t burn in the sun.
Reality: “The lips are a very delicate area and need to be treated with the utmost care. They are incredibly susceptible to burning, as they contain fewer active melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin). Additionally, the lips do not contain sweat or oil glands. So, the lips are at a disadvantage when faced with environmental exposure. Using a lip balm with SPF is a great way to keep them protected during the day and a hydrating overnight treatment can replenish lost moisture while you sleep (I like Revision Skincare’s Lip Replenisher!).” —Aaron
Myth: Eating chocolate causes acne.
