In the age of digital technology, accessibility of information and developed critical thinking, for some reason we still believe in some myths about skin care that are passed on “by word of mouth”.
Let's look at the most popular of them and dispel them together with dermatologist Nailya Shigapova.
Sunscreen is not needed in cloudy weather.
Even during rain and high clouds, street lights are not turned on, because we can see well. Why? Because the sun is behind the clouds, and its light penetrates, although not in a direct stream, to the ground, which means ultraviolet rays penetrate too.
Let's figure out which rays can be dangerous for us:
1. UVB or ultraviolet B radiation. Often the cause of premature skin aging, sunburn, pigmentation spots, and sometimes even a disease called melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Fortunately, only about 19% of these rays reach the Earth.
2. UVA – or ultraviolet A radiation. Can cause skin allergies, cataracts, eye burns and skin cancer. About 90% reaches the Earth.
But don't be afraid, these rays are safe for our health, provided the skin is properly protected. And proper care implies the obligatory use of sunscreen all year round, only depending on the season and the UV index, the SPF value will vary from 30 to 100.
Antibacterial soap is better for skin than regular soap
If we are talking about facial skin, then applying any soap to it is a very bad idea, which will lead to even more skin problems. And if we are talking about hands, then let's figure it out.
It is only advisable to use antibacterial soap if you come into contact with patients in a hospital, care for someone who is sick, volunteer at a nursing home, or frequently pet stray animals.
In other cases, regular soap is sufficient: it is effective in fighting bacteria and other germs, effectively removes dirt and oils from the skin, and is cheaper than antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers.
At the same time, regular soap does not destroy beneficial bacteria on the skin, keeping them on the surface.
You can get rid of pigment spots completely
Unfortunately, it is impossible to completely remove pigment spots, but it is possible to keep them under control and lighten them so that they will only be visible upon very careful examination, and sometimes only with the help of special equipment!
Here, rich cosmetology experience and arsenal will come to the rescue - peelings, lightening serums, mesotherapy and, of course, laser. The main thing is to consult a doctor before using any of these methods and follow all recommendations after the procedure.
Bronzer protects from UV rays
Bronzer, also known as self-tanner, reacts with dead cells of the stratum corneum of the epidermis, darkening them. This effect lasts for 1-3 days or until you exfoliate the stratum corneum, for example, with a washcloth.
At the same time, bronzer does not protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation, which means that using it, you can not only get a tan, but also get sunburn. Therefore, when using self-tanning, it is necessary to apply sunscreen.
The more often you wash your face, the better.
On average, you should wash your face no more than twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. More frequent washing is only justified at high ambient temperatures, but in such cases it is better to wash with just water, without using detergents.
Washing your face more than twice a day threatens to disrupt the hydrolipidic barrier (hydrolipidic mantle), which performs the protective function of our skin.
This layer consists of sebum, sweat and dead skin particles. Yes, it doesn’t sound very aesthetically pleasing, but this layer is necessary for the normal functioning of the skin.
If the hydrolipid mantle is destroyed, the skin may become flaky, irritated, red, or sebum secretion may increase, especially if the skin is initially oily, which can lead to worsening acne, enlarged pores, and a grayish complexion.
We hope this information was useful and you will properly care for the largest organ of our body – the skin!
Expert: Naila Shigapova
