Three Skincare Myths You Need To Stop Believing
In the world of skincare, myths are spread every day from person to person. From the belief that drinking more water can improve skin hydration to the effectiveness of popular supplements. A lot of these widely held notions lack scientific backing. In this article, we will debunk three common myths about skin health, shedding light on what truly contributes to a glowing complexion and effective skincare practices.
Myth #1: Drinking water hydrates and clears your skin
Drinking water is often promoted as a remedy for dry skin and acne. While it may seem logical that water can improve dry skin, the body doesn’t transfer nutrients directly from the digestive tract to the skin. This is why consuming Vitamins A or C isn’t the same as applying them topically. Daily water intake varies based on individual activity levels, but a general guideline is 64 ounces. Drinking more water than you need won’t enhance skin hydration. If you are chronically dehydrated, this can temporarily manifest as a lack of elasticity in the skin. For example, if you pinch your skin and it remains “tented,” failing to snap back, it may indicate dehydration. However, significant dehydration must occur over time for these signs to appear. Typically, other symptoms of dehydration will arise first. In this case, drinking water will improve skin elasticity. Outside of a deficiency, increasing water intake will not produce noticeable changes in your skin, particularly regarding acne. Acne is caused by bacteria, cell turnover abnormalities, and clogged hair follicles. There is no scientific evidence to support that water intake influences acne pathology. Unless someone is significantly dehydrated, drinking water will only help maintain baseline hydration.
Myth #2: Skincare supplements work (Collagen, Biotin)
Currently, there is no skincare supplement with consistent scientific evidence to support its therapeutic benefits. Biotin and Collagen are commonly sold as supplements with claims to improve hair, skin, and nails. However, high levels of Biotin can worsen acne. If there is no Biotin deficiency, supplementation is unnecessary and will not enhance skin quality.
Collagen peptides are controversial; while some studies indicate they may improve fine lines and wrinkles, others show no effect. The effectiveness of collagen supplements can depend on the product's quality and the manufacturer's research. Supplements are not required to demonstrate efficacy, meaning there is little regulation to ensure their effectiveness. Therefore, it is challenging to determine whether the supplements you purchase work. They are not a reliable solution for signs of aging, especially when more affordable and evidence-based options are available.
Other supplements, such as hyaluronic acid and various antioxidant plant extracts, have been researched for their potential skin benefits. While there may be preliminary studies suggesting these supplements could support skin health, none have been extensively tested on real people to confirm their efficacy for specific skin concerns. Supplements may be needed for other conditions or deficiencies but in the context of beauty, there are no reliable products to point towards.
Myth #3: Retinol thins the skin
Retinol and Vitamin A derivatives are popular for their well-documented ability to improve signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, acne, sun damage, and lack of skin elasticity. A common warning for new users is that retinol thins the skin. While this statement is technically accurate, it does not clarify which part of the skin is affected. In reality, retinol thins the top layers of the skin while thickening the deeper layers. The epidermis thins as retinol accelerates cell turnover. During the early stages of retinol use, it is normal to experience redness and peeling, indicating that the epidermis is becoming thinner and more vulnerable to sun exposure. Over time, collagen builds in the dermis, thickening the living skin and enhancing essential components like hyaluronic acid. Although the epidermis is thinner at the start of retinol use, as the skin adapts, less exfoliation occurs, and it slowly recovers. The skin is only sun-sensitive and thinner for a short period. Over time, retinol makes the skin stronger by thickening the dermis but the myth has been perpetuated because the skin is initially sensitive.
Understanding the facts behind these common skincare myths can help you to make informed decisions about your routine. While staying hydrated is important for overall health, it may not have the direct impact on the skin that many believe. Similarly, while some supplements show promise, their effectiveness varies and should not be relied upon as miracle solutions. Finally, incorporating retinol will indeed benefit your skin but there is nuance to its side effects. By educating yourself with accurate information, you can cultivate a skincare regimen that is both effective and based on scientific evidence, leading to healthier, more vibrant skin.
