Misconceptions and myths around beauty and skincare abound. We sat down with the experts at Wanderlux Beauty & Wellness Spa to get the lowdown on what to really believe.
JESSICA GEERLING | OWNER, LICENSED ESTHETICIAN
MYTH: You don't need to wear sunscreen if your makeup has SPF in it.
TRUTH: Even if your makeup says it's broad spectrum, you need about 10 times the amount of foundation you'd normally use to get the sun protection factor claimed on the bottle. Make sure you're fully protected by wearing a dedicated broad spectrum SPF under your makeup. There are great formulas that can act as a beautiful primer! If your dedicated SPF isn't broad spectrum, it only covers UVB rays; and while it may prevent you from burning, it will not prevent other skin damage caused by UVA rays, which penetrate windows and break down collagen, causing fine lines and wrinkles.
MYTH: You can shrink your pores.
TRUTH: Pore size is genetic. Those with larger pores are more prone to congestion. If your pores get clogged and don't get cleaned out, it can cause them to stretch temporarily or permanently. So while you may not necessarily be able to "shrink" your pores from their original size, you can minimize the appearance and prevent them from enlarging by keeping them clean. If your pores are already congested, leave it to the pros and book a facial or peel. Be proactive and avoid getting pores congested in the first place by using products with ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids, retinol or fruit enzymes. One of my favorites is the Lira Clinical Anti-Aging Pads.
JULIA ROOT | LICENSED ESTHETICIAN, BROW & MAKEUP ARTIST
MYTH: Makeup wipes are the best way to remove your makeup.
TRUTH: Not necessarily. There's a notion that by wiping your face, you're cleansing, but that's not the case. Wipes should be used as a way to pre-cleanse your face, as they'll help break down makeup, but that's it. I believe the use of a cleansing oil, micellar water, cream cleanser, or Makeup Eraser cloth is the best option. Pre-cleansing is a must when wearing cosmetics, but how you pre-cleanse to break down makeup will all depend on your skin type. The ways I mentioned are far better in the long run for your skin and the environment!
MYTH: Physical exfoliants are better for your skin than chemical exfoliants.
TRUTH: Neither a chemical or physical exfoliant is "better" than the other. However, one may be better for certain skin types or conditions, depending on your goals. When it comes to selecting an exfoliant, consult an esthetician!
For chemical exfoliants, start with low percentages and allow your skin to build up a tolerance, whether you're starting with an AHA like glycolic acid, a BHA like salicylic acid, or a retinol. When people have a negative experience with a chemical exfoliant, I find it was usually due to using active ingredients that were too strong, too frequently. When it comes to physical/mechanical exfoliation, ensure your product isn't too abrasive to avoid causing microtears on your skin. Also, be mindful of pressure and speed. Remember to exfoliate with care, don't exfoliate compromised skin, make sure you're properly hydrating your skin afterwards and wear a broad spectrum SPF daily for an added layer of protection.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor of West Michigan Woman.
This article originally appeared in the Aug/Sept 2021 issue of West Michigan Woman.
