Healthy Skin Month: Debunking Common Skin Myths

Portrait of beautiful afro girl touching her perfect skin on face With the plethora of information available on the internet, it can be difficult to know what’s true and what’s false, especially regarding skincare. Can you skip sunscreen on cloudy days? Is moisturizer really necessary for those with oily skin? We have the answers. In honor of Healthy Skin Month, the team at Norcal Dermatology Group is educating patients on the most common skin myths.

Myth: Melanin Protects Against Skin Cancer

The amount of melanin your skin has does not protect you against skin cancer. This misconception can be dangerous, leading those with more melanin to neglect sunscreen and miss signs of skin cancer. No matter how dark your complexion is, you should apply sunscreen daily and perform regular skin checks.

Myth: Skipping Sunscreen Isn’t a Big Deal

During the winter or on cloudy days, people mistakenly believe the UV is much lower, so there’s no need to apply sunscreen. However, whether it’s snowing, raining, or cloudy, the sun’s UV rays can still be harmful. Be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every morning and every 80 minutes if you are in the sun.

Myth: Acne Is Caused by Poor Hygiene

Some people may assume that acne is a result of not washing their face enough. On the contrary, acne begins forming beneath the surface of the skin. Washing your face more often will not help. It can actually be quite harmful, causing your skin to become dry, itchy, and irritated. If you’re struggling with acne, don’t wash your face more than twice a day.

Myth: Skincare Is Only for Women

While most of the people you see discussing skincare are women, it’s certainly not meant for them alone. Caring for your skin is beneficial, no matter who you are. Every individual’s skin requires attention and individualized care to stay healthy and see lifelong benefits.

Myth: Moisturizer Is Bad for Oily Skin

Those with oil skin types may skip moisturizing, believing it will only worsen their skin’s oil production. However, quite the opposite is true. When your skin is dehydrated, it produces more oil to compensate for it. By using moisturizer, you will likely notice your complexion evens out and becomes more balanced.

Schedule an Exam

If you’re interested in achieving healthier, happier skin, schedule a consultation with our highly-trained dermatologist in Berkeley, CA. Contact Norcal Dermatology Group at 510-646-8065
to get started.

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