AN aesthetics doctor has discredited several popular beauty myths that could be doing you more harm than good.
He also said that you’re probably missing an important step in your skincare regimen.
Dr. Hardik Soni, MD is the founder and Medical Director of Ethos Aesthetics and Wellness in Summit, New Jersey.
He previously shared with The U.S. Sun anti-aging products that are affordable and good quality.
Now, he is debunking common myths that could be negatively impacting your skin.
First, he said that it is a myth that drinking more water will hydrate your skin.
“While staying hydrated is important for overall health, drinking water alone won’t directly hydrate your skin,” he added.
According to Dr. Soni, the reality is that “proper skincare routines and moisturizers are essential for skin hydration.”
Moisturizers come in many varieties.
For example, serums and lotions tend to be lightweight and ideal for oily skin.
On the other hand, creams and ointments tend to be thicker and better for dry skin.
Another mistaken belief is that oily skin doesn’t need moisturizer — but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Dr. Soni said that the reality is that all skin types need moisturizer.
“Oily skin can benefit from lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturizers that help balance oil production,” he added.
Yet another misconception is that natural ingredients are always better for your skin.
Dr. Soni explained why that’s often not the case.
“Natural ingredients can be beneficial, but they can also cause allergies or irritation,” he said.
He added that it’s “important to choose products based on their formulation and your skin type, not just their natural label.”
While natural ingredients may contain beneficial effects, the expert explained why sometimes medical-grade skin care and prescriptions can be more effective.
“Prescription-grade skin care often has better studies quantifying their results and safety,” he added.
If you’re looking for quality products, there are several affordable and high-quality options.
Dr. Soni said another major myth is that expensive products are more effective.
“Price does not always equate to quality. Many affordable products contain effective ingredients and can provide great results,” he added.
Adapalene, for example, is sold under the brand name Differin, but the synthetic retinoid is available for under $40 at many retail pharmacies and provides both anti-acne and anti-aging effects.
Dr. Soni also shared his personal skincare routine he uses on his combination skin with sensitive tendencies.
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“Given the skin care industry is quite large and robust, many of the commercially available skin care are driven more by marketing than actual safety and efficacy studies,” he explained.
Lastly, Dr. Soni advised against the frequent use of tanning beds.
He debunked the myth that tanning beds are safer than sun exposure when, in reality, it’s the opposite.
“Tanning beds expose your skin to harmful UV radiation, increasing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging,” he said.
“The damaging effects of UV radiation have been well studied and are responsible for signs of aging.”
They include fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, broken capillaries, and redness.
He said that tanning beds also increase the risk of skin cancer, which is one of the most common types of cancer.
