Answer the following questions True or False to determine how much you know about skincare and whether or not your habits are putting your skin at risk for irritation or damage.

1. Cleansing three or more times each day is a good way to eliminate oil.
2. Exfoliation should be performed up to three times a week for oily skin types.
3. The stronger the toner, the better.
4. Scrubbing the face with a wash cloth is a good way to revive sensitive skin.
5. Pure alcohol is safe to use as a facial cleanser.
6. Tanning can clear up acne and eliminate dark spots.
7. Sunscreen should be reapplied after sweating.
8. The sun’s rays are just as damaging on a cloudy day as on a bright one.
9. Sunglasses are simply an amazing fashion statement.
10. Areas like ears, toes, and hands are thick enough that they don’t need sunscreen.
11. The lips don’t have oil or sweat glands.

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Answers:

1. False: Washing the skin more than twice a day can strip the surface of its oil as well as dehydrate the skin. To cut back on oil, be sure to use cleanser and toner appropriate for your skin type and follow up with oil free moisturizer.
2. True: Manual exfoliants like scrubs can be used up to three times each week on oily skin types to help eliminate dull skin. If you’re currently suffering from acne breakouts, try a chemical exfoliant with glycolic acid, which will be much gentler.
3. False: Every skin type is different and requires a different type of toner to balance the skin. If you use a toner too strong for your skin, you can sensitize it leading to irritation, redness, and a weakened protective layer.
4. False: Scrubbing is too rough for most skin types, especially those with sensitive complexions. Rather, use gentle but firm pressure with your fingertips to apply products.
5. False: Pure alcohol can be especially stripping to the skin and should never be used alone as an everyday cleanser.
6. False: Tanning can actually darken existing spots, lead to more hyperpigmentation, and increase sebum (oil) production.
7. True: Sunscreen products should be reapplied frequently after activities like swimming and sweating, as well as every few hours for optimal protection.
8. True: Ultraviolet radiation can penetrate through clouds putting the skin at risk for premature aging all year round. Not only do the sun’s rays account for up to 90 percent of premature aging, they can also lead to skin cancer.
9. True and False: Not all sunglasses are created equal. To protect your eyes and the skin around them, look for UV protection details on the label. If the pair you like doesn’t offer information about UV protection chances are it doesn’t have any. Choose a pair that shields a high percentage of UVA and UVB rays for ultimate protection.
10. False: These areas are sometimes forgotten and require extra consideration when applying sunscreen.
11. True: The lips, frequently prone to chapping, do not have oil or sweat glands. That’s why it’s critical to keep them hydrated and protected with a nourishing lip balm.

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