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5 Skin Care Myths, Debunked

Aug 29, 2016 09:26AM ● By Kourtney Jason

Not all makeup is created equal, according to Scott Hearth, MD, dermatologist at Granite Bay Dermatology and Laser Center. “[However], most of the active ingredients in over-the-counter makeup and skin care products are generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people,” he says. The most common problem that he sees with the use of skin care products is rashes, which shouldn’t be surprising when most product labels include warnings to immediately stop use if a rash appears. “These rashes usually develop from irritation or allergy to one of the active or inactive ingredients,” he says. Are you using the best products for your skin? We asked Dr. Hearth to chime in on common skin care myths.


1 / Myth: Any product can be used for any skin type.

Truth: “Most importantly, when choosing products for the skin, it’s important to choose [ones] that are best suited for your skin type, i.e. normal, dry, oily, sensitive, combination, etc. For example, if a person has oily skin or is prone to breaking out, oil-free or non-comedogenic   products are best. Conversely, a person with dry or sensitive skin should look for products that have moisturizers and are fragrance-free,” he says.


2 / Myth: Certain ingredients can help with specific skin problems.

Truth: Yes. “When choosing a product, look for ingredients that are beneficial for any special needs that you would like to address—acne, sun damage, wrinkles, dark spots, etc.,” he says. “Products containing retinol and stabilized vitamin C can help improve skin texture and fine wrinkles in sun damaged skin. To help lighten dark spots and unwanted pigmentation, look for products that contain these naturally derived ingredients: glycolic acid, kojic acid, N-acetylglucosamine, niaciamide (vitamin B3), L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and soy.”


3 / Myth: Moisturizer with sunscreen and/or makeup with SPF 15 are just as effective as actual sunscreen.

Truth: Yes and no. It’s important to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Dr. Hearth recommends moisturizer and makeup with a minimum of SPF 15, but ideally with SPF 30 or higher. “Remember SPF refers to UVB protection. Make sure you are getting good UVA protection with sunscreens like avobenzone or zinc oxide, as UVA rays cause brown spots and wrinkles,” he says.


4 / Myth: If you have acne-prone skin, your routine should include a scrub.

Truth: False. “Avoid products that contain alcohol and witch hazel, or abrasive scrubs, which may irritate inflamed skin and worsen acne,” he warns. “Instead, look for products that have salicylic acid and glycolic acid, which help to unplug pores; or benzoyl peroxide, which works against acne-causing bacteria.”


5 / Myth: Natural and/or organic products are always the best option.

Truth: False. “Natural or organic products are not necessarily better just because they are natural or organic,” he says. “Looking for ingredients that have been shown to be beneficial for your type of skin is an important factor in selecting the right skin care products. Dermatologists are the physician experts in all things related to the skin and can be a valuable resource in helping to develop the best regimen for the health and appearance of your skin.”

By Kourtney Jason // Photo © jandruk/fotolia.com.