Skin Care Myths Debunked

Some facts about products, treatments, and what skincare regimen is right for your skin type.

Myth: Cleaning your face with soap will bring you healthy and acne free skin.

"When you scrub your face, you're taking off some of the protective oils and barriers, which leads to irritation and even burns," reported by dermatologists. Instead, use a gentle cleanser followed by a moisturizer or sunscreen.

Myth: It's better to get the pus out of a pimple by popping it.

"The truth is, even though it feels really good to release [the pus], a lot of it just goes in deeper, which  causes more inflammation that can lead to scarring and spread under the skin. That's why you'll get another one a few days later close to the first one."

 It's crucial that people stop picking at their faces. But if you absolutely cannot resist, she says, be sure to do it right. Don't squeeze and pop the pimple. Instead, use something called a comedone extractor -- an inexpensive tool you can purchase at most beauty supply stores. Apply firm pressure with the extractor; then roll it across the pimple to take it out.

Myth: Facials and microdermabrasion are good for your skin care routine.

This is a popular myth, especially with the proliferation of day spas. But, a recent study from India concluded that facials actually cause acne breakouts in most people.

Myth: Antiaging products (or "wrinkle creams") can erase wrinkles.

Most wrinkle creams simply hydrate skin, plumping it out and making it look better temporarily. So don't buy into the hype. There is one product that has a solid history and reputation for reversing fine lines, that is topical retinoids.

Often sold under the name "Retinol" or "Tretinoin," these creams or drops penetrate the skin and increase skin cell turnover. Studies have shown them to be fairly effective at treating acne, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and reversing the effects of photoaging or sun damage. Some retinoids can be purchased over the counter. For greater strength, ask your doctor for a prescription.

It's also recommended that you use an antioxidant cream containing vitamin C but cautions that these creams tend to destabilize very quickly. So they should be purchased from a reputable company.

Myth: Lasers can make you look 20 years younger.

There are many different types of lasers being marketed, and they all do different things. Some help with sun spots, some help with wrinkles. Some go deep and activate collagen. It's all marketed so much that people think it can make you a completely different person."

It's believed that while lasers are much better than they were a few years ago and produce better results with fewer side effects, patients need to be realistic about what they can actually do. Once intensive damage to your skin is done, there's only so much that can be done.

So' bottom line when it comes to skin care tips and anti-aging strategies, stay out of the sun, and use a good sunscreen every day and throughout the day.

Myth: Expensive skin care products work best.

"This is simply not true,  many mass market products are better than expensive ones.

Kim agrees. Most active ingredients found in anti-aging creams are similar, she says, whether they are sold by a local store or a fancy boutique. Expensive skin care products can be good, of course. It's just that you can usually get something similar for a lot less.