Myth vs. Reality: 9 Skincare Myths Worth Busting

Myth vs. Reality: 9 Skincare Myths Worth Busting

The myth police are back — and this time we are busting nine skincare misconceptions that just won’t seem to go away. Do we blame TikTok? Maybe, but many of these myths have been around long before anyone even knew the word “influencer.” Luckily, A360 clinical aestheticians Aaron and Suzy are here to reveal the truth about these common skincare falsehoods:
 

 

Myth: Hot showers are good for your skin.
 

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.

 
Reality: “The purpose of exfoliation is to increase cellular turnover; we want those dead, damaged or otherwise unhealthy cells to go away so that fresh, happy, and healthy cells can take their place. That means that everyone should exfoliate. Our minds often go straight to “scrubs,” which can sometimes be abrasive. The truth is, there are many exfoliation methods and techniques out there. Those with sensitive skin may find better results with chemical or enzyme exfoliants like the Restorsea 10X Serum or Skinbetter Science AlphaRet.” —Suzy
 

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.

 
Reality: “We wish. Antioxidants have amazing anti-aging benefits — I always call them the “superhero” of skincare. However, they will not reverse existing wrinkles. They WILL, however, protect against environmental stressors, reduce inflammation and prevent oxidative free radical damage. The best way to target wrinkles is with regular Botox treatments, which can be paired with the new Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer.” —Suzy
 

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.

 
Reality: “Good news for chocolate fans: This one is false. While it’s true that a diet heavy in sugar isn’t the best for your general health, it’s not what actually causes acne. There are no studies linking chocolate and the formation of acne. How sweet is that?” —Suzy

 

Want to learn more about dispelling myths and achieving your best skin health? Schedule your complimentary consultation with Suzy or Aaron today!

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