Image via Complex Original
You’ve probably gotten a lot of grooming “advice” over the years—from “frowning leads to wrinkles” (ugh, true) to “acne’s caused by potato chips” (thankfully, false). The fact is that there are more rumors swirling around your skin than there are about Jay and Bey’s relationship (let’s agree to collectively stop caring about that one, please). With this in mind, we’ve decided to set the record straight about some of the biggest skincare misconceptions—vetted by NYC dermatologist Whitney Bowe, MD—so you can get on with your grooming and spend more time doing productive things, like watching football.
MYTH: Acne Is Caused by Not Washing Your Face Enough
Actually, genes and hormones are the biggest culprit when it comes to zits. Cleansing twice a day is important to get rid of excess oil and debris, but using harsh formulas or excessive scrubbing can irritate skin and make breakouts worse. For the record, there’s no proof that eating chocolate leads to acne, either. Chow on.
MYTH: Hot Water Opens Your Pores
Those tiny dots that you see across your nose are actually always open to let sweat and dead skin cells reach your skin’s surface. A steamy shower will loosen up the gunk that sits inside of them, though, and clear pores usually appear smaller. So, as it turns out, there’s nothing that you can actually do to shrink your pores, despite what all those creams claim.
MYTH: Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker
Don’t grow a fear beard. Getting rid of unwanted hair on a regular basis isn’t going to make it grow back fuller, or coarser. The reason that this myth lives on is because when you slice the tip of the hair shaft, the blunt end sticks straight up and appears thicker. Still not a believer? Think of it this way: The hair that comes out of your face is already dead, so it’s not exactly shouting out directions to the root as you chop it.
MYTH: The Higher the SPF, the Better the Protection
SPF math isn’t simple. Most people assume that SPF 30 is twice as effective as SPF 15, but here’s the real deal: SPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97 percent of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks about 98 percent of rays. No SPF blocks 100 percent of rays, so splurging for a number higher than 30 or 50 really doesn’t make sense.
MYTH: Facials Are Important for Healthy Skin
Most dermatologists agree that, while relaxing, a facial isn’t going to prevent you from future damage or have any long-term benefits for your skin. Instead, save your cash and visit your derm for a mole check. Although, if you’re sick of your girlfriend putting her paws on your blackheads and you don't mind a nice head massage, go for that facial.
MYTH: Guys With Greasy Skin Don’t Need Moisturizer
You actually do need the extra hydration, because odds are your skin isn't actually oily everywhere, and dry skin can (surprise) lead to even more oil. Look for lightweight, oil-free formulas or a water-based gel that offers a matte finish.
MYTH: All Razor Blades Are Created Equal
Your mug deserves more than cheap scrap metal. A good quality razor has multiple thin blades placed close together to reduce the amount of pressure required to get a close shave. The best are very sharp (dull razors lead to nicks and cuts) and designed to hug and accommodate to your skin's natural contours.
MYTH: A Burning Sensation Means Your Skin Is Clean
It’s normal for some ingredients (like salicylic acid or peppermint oil) to leave your skin cool and tingly, but if you’ve got that dried out, stinging feeling, then whatever you’re using is too harsh and actually inflaming your skin.
MYTH: Natural Products Are Better for Sensitive Skin
Believe it or not, you can have adverse reactions to ingredients from Mother Nature, too. Though there aren’t many regulations on using the term “natural,” so the label might mean squat. If you’re prone to irritation, look for products that are free of dyes, fragrances, parabens, or harsh cleansing agents like surfactants.
MYTH: A Safety Razor is the Only Way to Give Yourself a Super-Clean Shave
Manual razors, which now come tricked out with amenities like five smooth coated blades and ultra-moisturizing lube strips, can be a better (and much faster) option than the old school stuff. Shave first in the direction of hair growth, and then against the grain in the second pass.
