DEBUNKING BEAUTY MYTHS

With so much conflicting information, it's easy to feel confused. To help clear up common skincare myths, let me share with you the definitive answers to some of the most frequently asked skincare questions and debunk common beauty myths:

- GRACE CAROLE BELTRAN

Anyone who has ever tried to improve their skin's appearance and health knows how overwhelming the sheer volume of skincare advice can be. Should you exfoliate daily? Does a burning sensation mean a product is working? Does vitamin E make scars fade?

Pimples can be shrunk using toothpaste. A lot of people still cling to the idea that a dab of toothpaste on a pimple can help dry it out. While it is always handy when a product can pull a double duty, toothpaste is not meant for the skin as it contains foaming agents and abrasives and will do nothing for pimples. Treat breakouts with products formulated just for acne.

Antibacterial soap is best for keeping your skin clean. Healthy skin naturally hosts a normal flora of microorganisms. Infection occurs when harmful bacteria replace this normal flora because of antibacterial soaps. So it is impossible to keep your skin completely free of bacteria for any amount of time. In fact, many experts are concerned about the use of antibacterial soap as it could lead to more antibiotic-resistant bacteria (the pathologic flora). Antibacterial soap is not necessary for everyday use. Regular soap is fine. Thorough and consistent handwashing, not antibacterial soap, is what helps prevent the spread of infection.

Facial creams or ointments must be good if these burn. Pain does not equal gain when it comes to a burning feeling on your face. Some products, such as vitamin C serums and AHAs (alpha hydroxy) and BHAs (beta hydroxy), can give you a slight tingling sensation, but it should not feel like your face is burning. If you apply a product and it feels like your face is burning, remove it immediately.