WELLNESS

DEBUNKING 7 BEAUTY MYTHS

From sunscreen to fake lashes, there are many beauty myths out there.

13.01.2022
BY JACKSON KEEFE
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There are tons of beauty "tips" and "secrets" out there. Of course, like everything else you read or hear, not all of them are true. Here are some common beauty myths — let's explore (and debunk) them one by one.

1. Shaving causes hair to grow back thicker and darker

Unsplash/Helen Barth


According to UK-based Trichologist Anabel Kingsley, your hair won't grow thicker if you shave them off. Instead, its length and hair tip squared make it look thicker. Also, regular trims might make the hair look thick, but it's just an illusion your hair plays on you. Additionally, waxing might cause the hair to grow back unevenly.

2. Plucking grey hair causes more to appear
You must have heard that pulling out grey hairs can cause more of them to appear around it. The myth might be based on the truth that people will thoroughly search for more grey hair when they find one — so it is a made-up thing. 

However, there is wisdom to this myth. According to Kingsley, repeatedly pulling out the hairs can damage the hair follicle, which leads to hair loss.

3. Darker skin tone don't need sunscreen
Contrary to popular belief, those with dark skin do need sunscreen. According to an American Academy of Dermatology study, melanomas and other skin cancers are more prevalent in Asian and Black populations.

Dija Ayodele, a UK-based skincare expert and author of "Black Skin: the Definitive Skincare Guide", said that people of color should routinely apply sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun's harmful effects. She noted that applying sunscreen is essential, as it can help prevent both sunburn and skin cancer.

According to Ayodele, the modern trend for chemical skin peels and the prevalence of hyper-pigmentation are all reasons to apply sunscreen.

Unsplash/BATCH by Wisconsin Hemp Scientific

 

4. Parabens are dangerous
Despite the claims about the harmful effects of parabens, Sam Farmer, a UK cosmetic scientist, says that these preservatives are safe to use. He also noted that people commonly ingested them through fruit and vegetables.

Instead of protecting the consumers from harmful chemicals, replacing parabens with cheaper alternatives can put consumers at risk.

5. Washing hair too often is bad
UK celebrity hairstylist Neil Moodie, who has worked with various famous clients such as Kate Moss, Gemma Chan, and Sandra Oh, says it depends on the hair type. For straight-fine hair, it's essential to wash it regularly to maintain its natural look and feel. 

As for thick, curlier, or wavy texture, leaving the hair oil a bit longer is fine. It can help prevent the hair from drying out. As for dry hair, washing it less will actually benefit the hair health.

Moodie says to use a non-detergent-free shampoo and a conditioner for mid-lengths and more delicate hair for frequent washing.

6. Sunscreen blocks vitamin D
According to dermatologist Sam Bunting, a person's risk of getting vitamin D deficiency is mainly due to the real-world application of sunscreen. Those who regularly wear photo-protective clothing and stay in the shade are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency. On the other hand, dark-skinned individuals require more exposure to produce the same amount of vitamin D.

7. Fake lashes damage natural lashes
Teresa Smith, the owner of I Love Lash, believes that all lash artists are not equally skilled and work diligently. Careless lashes treatment is the culprit of damaged natural lashes. She advises her clients to avoid applying too long or heavy lashes. She also noted that they should be isolated to allow the natural lashes to grow appropriately.

Additionally, Smith advises people to avoid using mascara every day and gently stroke their natural lashes with cleansing or de-tenderizer.

 

 

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