You should never do these things to your skin
You probably know better than to scour your face like a bathtub, but some of the skincare no-no’s are more subtle. Here’s what to avoid at all costs.
Never pop a pimple
When a pimple is big and red and gross and you want it gone ASAP, popping it can seem like a good idea. “It is so tempting to do,” says dermatologist Dr Jeffrey Fromowitz. “But whenever you create a disruption in the skin, it increases the chance of infection, worsening inflammation and even scarring.” Instead, if you have a really prominent pimple you want to pop, go see your dermatologist.
Never leave home without applying sunscreen
You might be diligent about slathering on sunscreen while lying on the beach, but it’s just as important to put it on even if you’re heading to the office. “Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine,” says Dr Fromowitz. “Exposing your skin to sun without sunscreen increases your risk of skin cancer and damages the collagen in the skin leading to lines and wrinkles as well as sun spots.” And if you plan to be out in the sun extensively, take extra protective measures. “Wear sun protective clothing and avoid the middle of the day,” suggests Clinical Assistant Professor of Dermatology, Dr Jeremy Brauer. “And schedule outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun isn’t as strong.”
Never get lemon or lime on your skin while in the sun
A common home remedy for acne is lime juice, the rationale being that it has antioxidants and antibiotic properties while promoting skin renewal and improving elasticity. But it could cause problems. “You will get a ‘phototoxic’ reaction, which can be a blister or just pigmentation that can last for months,” says dermatologist Dr Alejandra Vivas. “A common scenario is for someone drinking a beer with lime at the beach to get some lime juice on their hand.”
Never get a tattoo with white ink
We all know tattoos are permanent – unless you get laser treatments. But there’s no erasing mistakes that involve white ink! “White ink is often impossible to laser off,” says dermatologist Dr Todd Minars. “Sometimes the white ink will even turn black when lasered.” Other difficult colour inks to laser off are flesh-colour, yellow and green. “Stick with black or dark blue if you must tattoo!”
Never use miracle products that tout secret ingredients
Your skin is precious, delicate and easily irritated, and there are no such things as miracle creams or skin lotions. “Never use products that do not list out their ingredients,” says Dr Fromowitz. “You must know what you are putting on your skin. When in doubt,” she adds, “discuss the product or your skin needs with your dermatologist who can guide you towards safe and effective product choices, specifically tailored for your skin type and problem.”
Never DIY high-level treatments
The internet has created access to nearly every imaginable product, including many that should be available only by prescription or only to physicians. While it is tempting to buy a professional strength peel to do at home to save money, resist the temptation. “These are powerful products with significant risk if not done properly,” says Dr Fromowitz. “Trust your skin to an expert. Get your treatments with a certified dermatologist.”
Never pick at your skin
We’ve all done it at some point – spending an hour in front of a magnification mirror going over every inch of our skin. But that’s a big no-no. “Repetitively picking/scratching at acne, blackheads, bug bites or other skin lesions could lead to not only infection but scarring and possibly permanent change in pigment,” says Dr Brauer. “That could all be avoided if left alone and treated properly in the first place.”
Never ignore a new or changing mole
If you have what you believe to be a pimple, sore or other skin blemish that won’t heal, it may not be a pimple after all. “That’s the common tale that often leads to a skin cancer diagnosis,” says Dr Brauer. Familiarise yourself with your ABCDEs of melanoma, don’t wait and get regular total body skin exams with a certified dermatologist.”
Never squeeze deep cysts
You may be looking for instant relief when you have painful cystic acne, but avoid popping it at all costs. “Frequently patients try to squeeze the contents of epidermal cysts through their characteristically small opening,” says Dr Vivas. “This pressure can actually rupture the cyst inside, creating a severe inflammatory reaction and possible infection that will likely require drainage and taking oral antibiotics.” Instead, see a doctor who might be able to help with a cortisone injection.
Never use too much soap
When it comes to getting clean, more soap is not better. “Your skin is your body’s protection from the outside world, and healthy, intact skin forms an impressive barrier,” says Dr Brauer. “When we strip down the natural components of this barrier, which we can do using too much soap and of course aggressively scrubbing, you increase the risk of infections and skin disease and flares in general.”