Myth: My Skin Will Age Just Like My Mom's
Fact: Your skin may or may not age just like your mother's. There are many factors involved in your overall appearance. Yes, genetics from both your mother's and your father's side play a role, but lifestyle choices and your health also influence how you will age.
Myth: If I Get a Base Tan at a Salon, I Won't Get a Sunburn Outdoors
Fact: Any skin color greater than your natural skin color indicates that your skin has been damaged. Pre-sun exposure does not protect the skin in any way. It may give the illusion of protection because the burning sensation may be less, but the damage has been done. Bottom line: Do not tan your skin in a salon or otherwise and use a sunscreen.
Myth: Acne Is Caused By What I Eat
Fact: For the most part, acne is genetic. While some foods can impact acne, it will not cause you to contract acne.
Myth: All-Natural Skincare Products are the Best
Fact: Natural may be "in" and sound good, but the fact is that these products hardly ever deliver on their promises. Look for medical-grade products with pharmaceutical-grade ingredients for products that will truly change, correct and improve the skin.
Myth: SPF Will Tell Me How Much Protection I'm Getting From the Sun
Fact: In truth, SPF is only part of the equation. Damaging UV light is separated into two parts: UVA and UVB. SPF only measures UVB, once thought to be the only harmful part of the spectrum. The United States has not yet adopted a standard to measure UVA protection, but it's in the works. Choose an SPF with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and make sure you couple your sunscreen with an antioxidant for maximum protection.
Myth: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker
Fact: Shaving does not influence hair growth or thickness. What you are seeing when you shave is actually an optical illusion caused by the blunt hair growing from the shaft and appearing thicker, when it is exactly the same size it always was.
Myth: All I Need to do for Great Skin Is Drink 8 Glasses of Water a Day
Fact: While water is great for overall health, it is a small part of the picture when it comes to the quality of your skin. Protecting your skin with sunscreen and using a proper skincare regimen is vital to keep your skin looking its best.
Myth: I Can Fall Asleep with Makeup On; It Won't Hurt Anything
Fact: All cosmetic products that provide color and illusion on the skin leave a toxic film on the skin's surface that can cause irritation, inflammation, dehydration and clog the pores. No matter how tired you are at night, take the time to wash your face.
Myth: The More Specialty Products I Use, the Better My Skin Will Look
Fact: Simple is always better. Just because your skincare regimen has 15 different products for morning and evening doesn't make it better—it only gives it more steps. The best skin regimen is the one you will use, which offers noticeable results and is customized to your skin type and condition. Don't be suckered into buying the latest and greatest products. Instead, look for time-tested treatments such as an effective cleanser, sunscreen and moisturizer and build from there.
Myth: My General Practitioner Can Look at My Skin
Fact: Dermatologists are experts trained in the skin, hair and nails. When faced with any skin condition, see a dermatologist. You wouldn't see just anyone to treat a heart condition—you would go to a cardiologist. Skin is our first line of defense against the world. It protects us, and we owe it our skin to keep it healthy. Start by seeing a professional.
Harold Lancer, MD, FAAD is the expert that Hollywood's most recognizable faces and bodies trust for effective cosmetic rejuvenation. Vist LancerDermatology.com for more information.6 dermatologists prescribe their solutions to your personal complexion concerns
