6 Common Skin Aging Myths

The internet is full of information about aging skin: what causes it, how to prevent it, and how to reduce the signs of it (i.e, fine lines and wrinkles). But among the endless TikTok videos and listicles, you’re bound to scroll through just as many pieces of misinformation as you would good advice.

While it might seem like it’s perfectly harmless to throw everything at the wall and see what sticks, it’s important to separate fact from fiction if you’re concerned about aging skin. Not only is it a waste of money to use the wrong products and treatments (or the right ones in the wrong way) but doing so can actually cause damage in the long term. 

Myth #1: Wrinkles are genetic

A combination of intrinsic AND extrinsic factors determine how you age. Well some people’s genes might lead to “aging better” you won’t inherit your Mom’s smile lines or your Dad’s crows feet—those are dependent on extrinsic factors like sun exposure, pollution, and your own unique facial movements. 

Myth #2: You only need sunscreen in the sun

You might have grown up only applying sunscreen at the beach, but a daily SPF is necessary to protect your skin from the aging effects of UV rays, even on cloudy days. Newer sunscreens are also formulated to protect against blue light and pollution, two common contributors to aging skin. If you haven’t found the right sunscreen for you, look for one with broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. The most popular sunscreens also apply with a sheer tint, so they’re easy and practical for everyday use. ELTAMD’s best selling broad spectrum sunscreen also contains Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps combat skin aging free radicals. 

Myth #3: 8 glasses a day keeps the wrinkles away

Hydration is vital to the proper functioning of our bodies, but it’s not the secret to preventing signs of skin aging. While dehydration might make fine lines more apparent, you won’t start seeing wrinkles if you’re only drinking 7 glasses a day. In fact, overhydration can also be damaging, throwing off the balance of electrolytes in your bloodstream. If you’re looking for a method of preventing signs of skin aging, there are more effective options than simply drinking water. 

Myth #4: Retinol should be used every day

Don’t get us wrong: retinol is a popular and effective product for reducing the signs of aging. A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol penetrates the epidermis to neutralize free radicals and help produce collagen and elastin. The effect is visibly reduced fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. 

However, retinol is a powerful topical cream. It can (and will) increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and too much retinol can cause dry skin, flakiness, and redness. In fact, some dermatologists recommend skipping retinol entirely in the summer, when sun exposure is likely to be higher. 

If you’re starting to use retinol, protect your skin by using a lower dose and slowly incorporating it into your routine. Even if you’re a regular retinol user, take breaks every so often, as it can lose its potency on your skin over time.

Myth #5: Skincare is all about the perfect products

While skincare products can certainly help reduce the effects of aging on the skin, lifestyle factors also play an important role in the skin’s ability to produce collagen and elastin. If you smoke, regularly eat high glycemic foods, and don’t pay attention to your diet, you’ll start seeing the impact on your skin no matter how good your skincare routine is. Reducing how often you smoke (or quitting entirely) as well as eating foods high in antioxidants, amino acids, and nutrients, can help support skin health and collagen.

Myth #6: You can find botox in a bottle

When it comes to reducing or eliminating signs of aging skin, neuromodulators (aka wrinkle relaxers) like Botox are some of the most effective treatments. Like other treatments, botox reduces fine lines and wrinkles, but unlike topical creams and solutions, Botox can actually prevent aging by freezing the muscles in the face that create wrinkles in the first place. New neuromodulators, like Daxxify, can also provide results that last up to 8 months. To make the most of neuromodulator treatments, add a product like Revox Line Relaxer into your routine, which will help prolong the amount of time needed between treatments.