7 Beauty Myths That Are Just That , Myths

 Urban Legends on Beauty

1. My skin is dry, I need to drink more water. False.

We aren't like our fellow succulents. When we drink water it goes to our intestines ,  is absorbed by our bloodstream, is filtered by our kidneys and then it hydrates our cells. Though drinking water is essential, it does not moisturize our skin.

2. Chocolate gives me zits. False.

According to Los Angeles dermatologist Dr. Ava Shamban, " chocolate per se will not make you break out. In fact there is little evidence that chocolate or any specific fatty foods will cause acne....". Looks like the culprit for chocolate's bad rap is timing : PMS - chocolate - hormonal acne.

3. Topical potions will make my cellulite vanish. False.

According to Dr. Jenny Kim of UCLA's David Geffen School of Medicine, " there are no significant studies that prove cellulite creams work, but there is anecdotal evidence which suggests that some women do see an improvement with consistent use ". Anti-cellulite creams are chock full of ingredients that boost circulation and detoxification, but the results are temporary.

4. Retin-A will make me photosensitive.

( use our old posting of retin-a myths )

5. Parabens will give me cancer. Probably False.( This one is tricky ).

The FDA believes that " at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be concerned about the use of cosmetics containing parabens ". Though traces of parabens are winding up in breast tissue , it might be prudent to use paraben free products if you are concerned until there is the ultimate paraben vs. cancer study.

6. I work indoors, I don't need sunscreen. False.

Windows and fluorescent lights emit UV rays that damage skin. 62.8 % of UVA ( aging ) rays travel through windows. Not to mention the sunlight you encounter en route and en return from work. So if  you work in a big black box you are good.

7. I don't need to reapply my sunscreen. False.

Sunscreen, at least an SPF 30 lasts a maximum of 2 hours and needs to be reapplied in a sufficient amount : a squirt or dollop the size of a quarter. Factors such as sweat, humidity and contact with water will minimize time between applications. So ignore your children's whining and reapply.