"Google is your friend."
You have had this phrase before. But how much of the skincare information that you find on the internet is true? In this article, you will learn common skincare myths and the facts behind each myth.
1. Hot Water Opens Up Your Skin Pores
Fact: The pores on your skin are not temperature sensitive. Regardless of temperature, your skin pore will always open.
How did this myth gain traction? When you apply hot water on your skin, the outer layer swell. The swelling gives an impression of open skin pores. The truth is that your pores do not open or close based on temperature.
Hot water could damage your skin. Make sure that your water is lukewarm before taking a bath or washing your face.
2. You Can Skip Sunscreen On a Cloudy Day
Fact: The clouds do not block the sun's ultra-violet rays. Sunny or cloudy, your skin will absorb the same amount of harmful UVA and UVB rays from the sun.
You must apply a reasonable amount of sunscreen regardless of the conditions outside. Remember to reapply every two hours or after sweating or swimming.
3. Rubbing Alcohol Kills Your Acne
Fact: Alcohol is a drying agent. When you apply alcohol, it drys your skins. The skin compensates by secreting sebum to restore the natural balance.
Alcohol mixed with the right ingredients is beneficial to your skin. It is no wonder why alcohol is the most common ingredient in cosmetics. Rubbing concentrated alcohol can damage your skin and strip it of its natural oils.
4. Oily Skins Do Not Need Moisturizers
Fact: No matter your skin type, you need some moisturizer to nourish your skin. Oily skins need a lower amount of moisture. Having oily skin is not enough reason to deprive your skin of moisture. For oily skin, always choose a lighter moisturizer like a hydrating lotion or serum.
5. Coconut Oil is an Excellent Facial Moisturizer
Fact: Contrary to public opinion, coconut oil is a comedogenic agent. Comedogenic oils are those that clog the pores on your skin. The clogging may lead to pimples.