The 5 Anti-Aging Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

Don't let these fool you!

By NewBeauty Editors · Jul 9, 2015

There are hundreds of anti-aging tips and tricks to try, but some can actually be harmful to your skin. We asked New York dermatologist Gary Goldenberg, MD, about five skin care practices you’re better off avoiding.

Daily exfoliation can give you a more youthful appearance.
Exfoliation has a ton of benefits to your skin, but it’s not right for everyone. “If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition like eczema or psoriasis, daily exfoliation can be too irritating,” says Dr. Goldenberg. “I recommend to start once or twice weekly and then increase frequency of exfoliation as tolerated.”

Sunscreen is only for the beach.
While it’s a great idea to wear SPF on your next beach trip, sunscreen should be used every day to block harmful UVA and UVB rays that can cause wrinkles, discoloration and skin cancer. Our favorite is Coola Face SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer ($32).

You can stop using anti-aging products after your skin shows results.
You found the skin care regimen that works, and it’s great–but don’t quit while you’re ahead. “If you find the regimen that works, and this may include a combination of topical creams as well as laser or injectables, it’s important to continue it,” explains Dr. Goldenberg. “Otherwise, the results will be reversed, because skin aging doesn’t stop.”

More expensive products are more effective.
Although it’s tempting to believe that the most expensive products have the best results, it’s not always true. “Drugstore brands, such as Cetaphil or CeraVe are a very good and inexpensive options,” says Dr. Goldenberg. When looking at anti-aging products, ingrdients that moisturize and protect skin from sun damage are important things to look for regardless of price.

Diet doesn’t prevent wrinkles.
Generally, diet has little to do with wrinkles, but a poor diet can make you age faster. “This may have more to do with lifestyle in general,” says Dr. Goldenberg. “I recommend a diet rich in good proteins and fats and antioxidants like fruits and vegetables, as well as low in sugar.”