Bash Beauty Myths

Beauty myths are often no more than old sayings that are handed down to each generation. Some of these misconceptions are centuries old and just plain silly. While logic doesn't seem to play a big factor in beauty myths, they're still abundant. These common beauty myths are pure fiction. Sujaya Guha talks to well-known dermatologists of the city to bash these beauty myths.

Myth: Wearing cream at night will not allow your skin to breathe.

Myth bashed: There is no such fact that applying cream in the night prevents the skin from breathing. Dr. Dhruv Gupta, consultant dermatologist and cosmo laser surgeon with Paras Hospitals, Gurgaon says, “Using cream at night nourishes your skin. When you apply any moisturizing cream it helps the skin from inside and does not block anything on the surface.” In fact it is necessary to slap on plenty of moisturizer before going to sleep, especially if you are in an air-conditioned room.


Myth: Washing hair frequently is harmful.

Myth bashed: Your scalp sweats like the rest of your body plus it produces oil. If you don’t wash your scalp, bacteria will thrive in the warm and cozy atmosphere. So if your hair is oily and you exercise a lot, washing your hair with good quality shampoos and conditioner will not only clean your hair, but also improve its condition.

Myth: Fairness cream can alter the skin colour of a person.

Myth bashed: Your skin colour is largely genetic and fairness products can make a difference of a few shades. Be realistic in your expectations. Dr Rishi Kumar Parashar, consultant dermatologist at Ganga Ram Hospital reveals, “The complexion of the skin is primarily the result of melanin content—pigments that decide your skin colour, in your body. Yes, with intensive skin improvement, under a dermatologist's supervision, your skin can definitely become more even toned, less patchy, healthier and up to 30 to 35 per cent lighter -- but nothing can change the skin colour you were born with.”

Myth: The higher the SPF in your sunscreen, the longer you’ll be protected from the sun.

Myth bashed: A higher SPF number is not necessarily better. The most important thing is that your sunscreen is broad-spectrum, meaning it protects against both the UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays of the sun. If you reapply often, a broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen is just as effective as an SPF 50 one; “Your skin protection depends on the ingredients used in the cream and not on the level of SPF,” informs Dr. Dhruv. You can make your sunscreen work for longer hours by reapplying it.

Myth 4: Dandruff is caused by dry scalp

Myth bashed: Dry scalps can flake but the worst cases of dandruff are usually found on oily scalps. Yes, it’s true. Large flakes form in certain areas of the scalp (not all over). It’s a natural condition so can’t be eliminated; it can be only controlled or managed using special anti dandruff shampoos and treatments.


Myth: It is not necessary to wear sunscreen during winter.

Busted: Just because you don’t feel the sun’s rays pounding down on you during winter, doesn’t mean its harmful UVA and UVB rays are not penetrating your skin, causing significant damage. The fact remains that UV-A and B rays are the same the year round, even on a cloudy day. These rays can cause ageing and pigmentation. “Keep sunscreen in your bag, as sunscreens are chemical blocks that require repeated applications” advises Dr. Charulata Bose, cosmetic dermatologist with Artemis Health Institute, Gurgaon.

Myth: Eating chocolate and fried foods cause acne.

Busted: Studies have shown that pimples are caused from factors such as extreme stress or dead skin cells blocking pores. Dr. Dhruv shares, “Food on a large basis has nothing to do with the pimples. There is no need to restrict any kind of foodstuff if a person has acne. However, eating fresh fruits and raw vegetables does promote a healthier complexion.”