There is a lot of information floating around the internet about skincare. How can you decide what is right and wrong? We research and manufacture skincare products, so we know a little about this topic to help clear things up.
In this article we debunk 5 common myths in skincare you’ve probably been hearing about lately.
1.
If the active ingredients aren’t listed at the top of the ingredient list the product isn’t good. Products are designed with very specific amounts of each ingredient to optimize the performance of the whole formula. Often times you won’t see active ingredients listed near the top of the list (highest percentage in the formula) as it may take away from the performance of the other ingredients rendering them ineffective.
2. Avoid products with parabens. Parabens have been used in skincare and makeup products for decades because it has been evidenced to be safe and effective. It is approved by the FDA and has the most research behind it as safe for use beating out every other preservative. Yes, it is perfectly safe. Skincare without proper preservatives can lead to the growth and spread of mold and bacteria -- which is totally unsafe.
3. The more skincare products I use, the better my skin will be. Using too many skincare products can seriously stress out your skin. Most people struggle from multiple skin concerns – aging, acne, hyperpigmentation. Using too many products with strong actives hoping to address everything all at once can cause negative ingredient interactions and skin sensitivity. Use the less is more philosophy here and space out the products to target in this order – acne, hyperpigmentation, then aging.
4. I got a reaction from a new skincare product so I’m probably allergic to it. It is easy to attribute a reaction to a new skincare product you are using, but it is best to assess what you are doing holistically.
• Are you using several new products at once? Trying multiple new products can spell disaster as your skin tries to keep up with a sudden rush of new ingredients it is trying to metabolize.
• Was your skin already sensitive prior to using the new product? Introducing new products on already sensitive skin can worsen the condition as your skin’s barrier may be compromised. Sometimes our skin can be sensitive without us even knowing because there are no signs of inflammation or redness.
• What else are you using in your skincare routine? Using ingredients like AHAs and BHAs in your routine can make your skin barrier more sensitive to new products as there is less dead skin and oil providing a protective layer. Switch out actives each night to prevent interaction and wait longer to exfoliate.
5. I don’t need skincare products because I get facials regularly. Just think of it this way, not using daily skincare products is like going to the dentist and not brushing everyday. Regular facials are amazing for skin health, but ask any esthetician if you should use skincare products daily at home and the answer will be a resounding YES, YES, YES. Some estheticians won’t guarantee the results of their treatments unless the client agrees to continue with home treatment.
So how does knowing all this tie into Dermaesthetics? Well, we are all about simplifying your routine and using minimal products with the most nutrients for your skin. That was the motivation behind the creation of Deramesthetics almost 40 year ago by our founder Dr. Ann Lee.
We have been providing a range of peels, professional treatments, and at-home skincare solutions to doctor’s offices and spas all around the world and work closely with many professionals in the skincare industry.