Hey there, it's your friendly neighborhood pharmacist Vickie here! I wanted to take a minute to talk to you about some common beauty myths that I hear all too often. As a pharmacist, I am constantly asked about different beauty products and treatments, and it's important to me to make sure that people have accurate information before making any decisions about their health or appearance.

So, without further ado, let's bust some myths!

There are a lot of beauty myths out there that have been circulating for years. We all have heard them. Some of them may seem convincing, but the truth is, many of these myths are just that – myths. Here are some common beauty myths that you may have heard, and the truth behind them.

Myth #1: You need to spend a lot of money to get good skincare results.

This is a myth that I hear all the time, and it's simply not true. While there are certainly high-end skincare products out there that can be very effective, there are also plenty of affordable options that work just as well. The most important thing is to find products that work for your skin type and to use them consistently. Some of our favorite cheaper OTC options are:

Cerave Moisturizing Cream: This moisturizing cream contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which can help to hydrate and protect the skin. It's gentle enough for those with sensitive skin and can be used on both the face and body.
Neutrogena Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser: This cleanser is designed for sensitive skin and is formulated without harsh ingredients that can irritate the skin. It's gentle and effective for removing dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping the skin of its natural oils.
The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%: This serum contains niacinamide and zinc, which can help to regulate oil production and reduce the appearance of pores. It's also effective for improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Sunscreen: This sunscreen is formulated with broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and antioxidants to help protect the skin from sun damage. It's also lightweight and non-greasy, making it a great option for daily use.
Aquaphor Healing Ointment: This multi-purpose ointment can be used to soothe and protect dry, chapped skin. It's great for use on areas such as the lips, hands, and feet, and can also be used to protect minor cuts and burns.

Myth #2: You should always choose products labeled "natural" or "organic."

While there's nothing inherently wrong with choosing natural or organic products, it's important to remember that not all natural ingredients are good for your skin, and not all synthetic ingredients are bad. In fact, many synthetic ingredients have been extensively studied and are known to be safe and effective in skincare products. Ultimately, it's more important to choose products that are formulated for your specific skin type and concerns. The idea that organic skincare products are inherently better or safer than regular ones is a common misconception. While there are certainly benefits to using organic products in general, there is no evidence to suggest that organic skincare products are inherently better than non-organic ones in terms of effectiveness or safety.

Organic skincare products are made from natural ingredients that have been grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This can be beneficial for the environment and for reducing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. However, it's important to note that not all natural ingredients are safe for the skin, and not all synthetic ingredients are harmful. In fact, many synthetic ingredients used in skincare products have been extensively studied and are known to be safe and effective.

Myth #3: You should only use anti-aging products when you start to see wrinkles.

It's never too early to start taking care of your skin! While it's true that anti-aging products are often marketed to older adults, many of the ingredients in these products can be beneficial for all skin types. For example, retinol (a common anti-aging ingredient) can help to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of pores, and even out skin tone. I would say in general it's a good idea to start incorporating anti-aging products into your skincare routine in your 20s or early 30s as a preventative measure.

The aging process begins in our mid-20s and continues throughout our lives. The earlier you start taking care of your skin, the better equipped it will be to handle the aging process. Some common signs of aging that may indicate it's time to start incorporating anti-aging products include the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, and uneven skin tone. When choosing anti-aging products, it's important to look for ingredients that have been clinically proven to be effective, such as retinol, vitamin C, and peptides.

Myth #4: Drinking more water will automatically improve your skin.

While staying hydrated is important for overall health, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that drinking more water will directly improve the appearance of your skin. That being said, dehydration can certainly make skin look dull and lackluster, so it's important to stay hydrated for overall health and wellness. Numerous other factors such as genetics, sun exposure, and skincare regimen can also play a role in the appearance and health of the skin.

Myth #5: You should exfoliate your skin every day.

Exfoliating can be great for removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, but it's important not to overdo it! Over-exfoliating can lead to irritation and sensitivity, and can actually make your skin look worse instead of better. Most people only need to exfoliate once or twice a week, depending on their skin type. I have definitely over exfoliated before and caused a breakout.

Myth #6: Wash your face with hot water to open up your pores.

Contrary to popular belief, it's not necessary to "open up" your pores for better skincare. In fact, using hot water or steam to try and open up your pores can actually be damaging to your skin, as it can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.

Instead of trying to open up your pores, focus on cleansing your skin properly. Use a gentle cleanser and lukewarm water to remove dirt, oil, and makeup from your skin. This will help to keep your pores clean and prevent breakouts. Hot water can actually be damaging to your skin, as it can strip your skin of its natural oils and cause irritation. Instead, use lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser to cleanse your skin.

Myth #7: Wearing makeup everyday is bad for your skin.

Wearing makeup every day is not necessarily bad for your skin, as long as you are removing it properly at the end of the day. Leaving makeup on overnight can lead to clogged pores and breakouts, which can be damaging to your skin.

However, some types of makeup can be more irritating or pore-clogging than others. Heavy, oil-based foundations, for example, can be more likely to clog pores and cause breakouts. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, it's important to choose makeup products that are labeled as non-comedogenic or oil-free.

It's also important to make sure you're using clean brushes and sponges to apply your makeup, as dirty tools can harbor bacteria and lead to breakouts.

Myth #8: You should only wash your hair every other day to avoid stripping it of its natural oils.

How often you wash your hair depends on your hair type and individual needs. If you have oily hair, you may need to wash it more frequently. If you have dry hair, you may be able to go longer between washes. There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question.

So there you have it: some common beauty myths busted. If you have any questions about skincare products or treatments, don't hesitate to ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist. We're here to help you make informed decisions about your health and appearance.

Common Beauty Myths Busted