November has arrived! Did you know that November is Healthy Skin Month? This month we encourage you to take some time to show your skin some TLC. Maybe treat yourself to a new product from Revision Skincare, get a laser treatment or add in some Botox to your routine. However, there are some skincare “trends” going around that you should skip!! These five trends should stay on the internet – not on your face!
Here are five popular skincare trends that dermatologists recommend avoiding to protect your skin and health:
1. Skipping Sunscreen
Some trends suggest avoiding sunscreen due to unfounded fears about its ingredients. There is no evidence to support any claim that sunscreen ingredients harm health. Pay this trend no mind! We strongly believe that wearing sunscreen daily is one of the best things you can do to protect your skin! Not wearing sunscreen puts you at significant risk of developing skin cancer.
2. Dry Manicures
Dry manicures involve removing the cuticle entirely, which can expose the nail bed to bacteria and increase infection risk. We would strongly caution you against this trend. The cuticle works as a natural barrier. Removing it can lead to infections like paronychia, which causes pain, inflammation, and discoloration around your nails.
3. Overdoing “Glass Skin” Routines
The “glass skin” trend promotes layering moisturizers and serums on your face to achieve a poreless, luminous look. You may even see a shiny effect or have heard the terminology “slug your face” in reference to this. However, overuse of multiple products may lead to clogged pores, irritation, and breakouts. While moisturizing and sun protection are beneficial, we suggest personalizing your routine to your skin’s specific needs. If you have dry skin during the colder months, we can recommend some moisturizing products that we carry that won’t irritate your skin or clog pores.
4. Taking Biotin Supplements Without Deficiency
While biotin is often marketed for hair growth, studies indicate it’s ineffective unless there’s an existing deficiency. We do not recommend taking biotin without first verifying that you need to do so. This can be done through a blood test (please note, we do not offer this service in our office). If you’re experiencing hair loss, come in for a consultation to identify the root cause and consider safer treatments.
5. Using Beef Tallow for Acne and Dry Skin
Beef tallow is sometimes promoted as a natural treatment for acne and dry skin. However, for acne-prone skin, beef tallow can exacerbate breakouts by trapping oils. Additionally, unlike other formulated skincare products, it lacks sun protection and, if improperly stored, may harbor bacteria. If you’re looking to treat acne or sensitive skin, again we recommend coming in for a consultation and following a treatment plan that we recommend.
The bottom line – don’t believe everything you see on social media! If you’re having skincare concerns, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We can individually address your concerns and treat symptoms in a safe, continuous manner that will achieve long-term results.
The information presented in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If you have questions or concerns, please call our office or make an appointment with a medical professional. Savannah River Dermatology is located at 575 Furys Ferry Rd in Augusta, Ga. Our office can be reached at 706-691-7079.
