Anti-aging skin treatments: Skin care myths and truths

Anti-aging skin treatments: Skin care myths and truths (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images)

Beauty may lie in the eye of the beholder, but every woman needs the perfect skin care to radiate her beauty and youth.

The cosmetic industry has flourished in recent times, with several advertisements and commercials, in a variety of media, constantly focusing on the importance of having beautiful and younger-looking skin. If you're among the ones who desire attractive looks and wish to appear younger than your real age, you must ensure that you are using the right products and following the right regimen. Here, we will discuss some of the most common myths and the truth behind them.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #1: Sunscreen isn't necessary during winters or cloudy days

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: This is among the most popular myths and a large number of women actually fall for it. Regardless of whether it is sunny or cloudy outside, it is essential to remember that the UV rays emitted by the sun reach the surface of the earth even through thick clouds. Your skin is constantly exposed to risks when you are outdoors during the day, and even on cloudy days, the UV rays still have the potential to inflict unnecessary consequences such as wrinkles and age spots. Constant exposure to the sun's harmful rays can also cause skin cancer, so put on the sunblock every time you leave home and head outdoors.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #2: Expensive products are excellent anti-aging and skin care treatments

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: Most people are of the belief that the price of a product determines its quality. While that is probably true when it comes to some of the latest technological gadgets, it may not really apply to cosmetics. The price is not a factor to consider when purchasing beauty products. Instead, you must check the ingredients used in making a particular product along with their quality, in order to ensure that it's compatible with your skin. Many products are priced slightly lower than others are, and yet deliver good results, even if they are not as expensive as the high-end items.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #3: Washing your face with water and soap will keep your skin healthy

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: As it is often said, "Too much of a thing is never good!" The statement is especially true in the case of skin care treatments. Constantly cleansing the skin on your face, particularly with water and soap, will damage the skin more than nourishing it. The skin requires oils, and washing your face ever so often will simply reduce the level of elasticity and make the skin appear old over time.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #4: Rich eye creams are the solution for wrinkles

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: Eye creams have been made to minimise and prevent wrinkles from appearing around your eyes. However, you shouldn't just choose an eye cream because it is stuffed with expensive ingredients. Several products use harsh chemicals, and expose you to the risk of potentially clogging your pores, irritating the skin, and damaging it.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #5: Skin dryness can be eliminated using moisturising soaps

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: Soap, regardless of its manufacturer or ingredients, is still soap. Although some types of soap contain plenty of moisturisers, they still have components that lead to dryness of the skin, after a few hours of use. So, soaps must be used carefully and less frequently.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #6: Irritation is the stepping-stone to healthy skin

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: Many women who use skin care and anti-aging products believe that the initial irritation experienced by the skin when using a product, ensures positive results in the long run. However, they must remember that there are several effective products with ingredients, which work well on your skin without causing any irritation, peeling or dryness. In fact, effective anti-aging ingredients such as glycolic acid can be used to minimise irritation and maximise results.

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Myth #7: A product for one, is a product for all

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments Truth: Skin types vary between all individuals. A product that may work well for one could prove less effective for another. Consulting a dermatologist ensures that a proper regimen is developed, the progress is monitored, and that some changes are made depending on the results you experience. According to a survey carried out by the University of California, around 64 per cent of the female respondents said that they would opt for an anti-aging regimen that followed the guidelines of a physician.

Common myths exist in all walks of life, but those without scientific backing must be disregarded, especially when it comes to skin care and anti-aging treatments. Consulting with a skin care specialist is the best option, as it will help you get that perfect, younger-looking skin that every woman desires.