From horror movies to haunted houses, there’s plenty of scary fun to be had during the Halloween season. However, there are also ghost stories in the skincare space that can keep our patients up at night! Grab a cozy blanket and gather ‘round the Charleston Dermatology campfire because today, we’re sharing some scary skincare myths to help free you from your fears.

MYTH #1: Chocolate causes acne.

With trick-or-treat at our doorstep, we thought it important to address this myth first! Contrary to skincare urban legends, chocolate does not cause you to develop acne…at least not specifically. Studies show that an excess of foods high in fat, sugar and dairy raise the risk of acne breakouts. This may be due to how they trigger an increased production of insulin in the body that also encourages the release of sebum, a hormone known to cause acne. So, while chocolate’s ingredients may raise your risk, as with all things in life, moderation is key.

MYTH #2: You only need sunscreen on sunny days.

Whether you see it or not, the sun is shining! Even if you feel safe in cool or cloudy weather, SPF is always essential to protect from harmful UV radiation shining down through cloud cover. When choosing a sunscreen, always opt for broad-spectrum options that defend against UVA and UVB rays. Always reapply when outdoors for extended periods, especially when sweating or in the water.

MYTH #3: Not washing your face causes acne.

While cleansing your skin can certainly help your complexion, face washing and acne are not directly intertwined. Genetics and hormones also play a major role in acne development, with outbreaks more common in those with oily skin. Regular face washing can help unclog pores caused by excessive oil production but is not necessarily required for those without oily skin.

MYTH #4: Age spots are an inevitable part of the aging process.

Despite their name, age spots are not caused by the aging process. Also known as liver spots, these patches of skin discoloration are caused by the accumulation of melanin due to prolonged and excessive exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays. In simpler terms, age spots are a form of sun damage that you can help protect your skin from through proper and consistent sunscreen application.

MYTH #5: Retinoids thin your skin.

Retinoids are a compound derived from Vitamin A that are used to reduce signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, as well as reduce acne outbreaks. This commonly believed myth stems from an initial side effect of retinoid use – skin peeling. However, skin peeling does not equal skin thinning, with retinoids actually helping to thicken the skin.

Our board-certified dermatologists ease skincare fears.

If you are struggling with scary skincare symptoms and need an official diagnosis or want to explore treatment options, our team of board-certified dermatologists at Charleston Dermatology are here for you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment, and visit our website to explore our full list of services.