There’s a lot of skin care advice available on the Internet. The problem is a lot of what’s out there isn’t necessarily true.

Fortunately, California Dermatology and Clinical Research Institute can help you separate the facts from the fiction. Here are some of the most common skin care and dermatology myths, and the truth behind them.

1. You don’t need sunscreen on a cloudy day

When it’s overcast, the sun can still cause harm to your skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, up to 80% of those damaging UV rays can penetrate the cloud cover. So even if the weather forecast calls for cloudy skies, make sure you wear sunscreen.

2. Your skin’s not really clean until it’s squeaky clean

Harsh soaps can give you that squeaky clean feeling – but if your skin feels taut after you wash your face, you might be setting yourself up for long-term irritation. The natural oils on your skin serve as a protective barrier, and washing too much away can cause breakouts, dryness, and damage. Instead, use a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser for best results.

3. Junk food causes acne

People are often told to avoid greasy foods and sweets to keep their skin clear. But studies indicate that there’s no direct link between eating junk food and developing acne. However, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, there may a slightly elevated risk of breaking out if you consume a lot of high glycemic index foods - foods for example, that are high in processed sugars.

4. The higher the SPF, the longer you can spend in the sun

All sunscreens last the same amount of time, whether they have an SPF of 30 or 100. The SPF, or sun protection factor, doesn’t indicate how long the sunscreen lasts, but rather the percentage of UV light it filters out. Sunscreen should be applied every two hours, regardless of the SPF level.

5. Popping pimples helps them go away faster

When you pop a pimple, you might think you’re getting rid of the pus. But more often than not, you’re actually pushing it further beneath the skin. This can lead to inflammation, scarring, and even more pimples than before. Your best bet is to leave your pimples alone and let them run their course. Most pimples should heal themselves in three to seven days.

6. Over the Counter wrinkle creams will make your crow’s feet disappear

Most wrinkle creams merely hydrate the skin, causing it to plump up temporarily and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As soon as the cream wears off, the wrinkles reappear. If you’re concerned about reversing the signs of aging on your skin, your dermatologist can prescribe topical retinoids – which have been scientifically proven to be effective at diminishing wrinkles.

7. You can fight acne with apple cider vinegar

Many websites extol the virtues of using topical apple cider vinegar to reduce the occurrence of breakouts, pimples, and blemishes. In fact, there are also claims that it can fight wrinkles, reduce age spots, and even clear up warts. The truth is, there’s no scientific evidence to back up any of these claims, so don’t believe the hype. If you need help with a skin condition, we recommend that you consult a medical professional. If, however, you insist on browsing the Internet for remedies, look for those that have been scientifically proven safe and effective and that are accompanied by clear, easy-to-follow directions.

Research = Results at California Dermatology & Clinical Research

Bogus advice about skin care is everywhere, but at California Dermatology and Clinical Research Institute, we know fact from fiction. We also know that research produces real results, so we conduct numerous studies to help develop new and better treatments for a variety of dermatologic conditions. Whether you’re suffering from bad breakouts or persistent eczema, we’re dedicated to providing you with the latest and most effective research-based treatment for your condition. Call us at (760) 203-3839 and schedule an appointment with our doctors today.